Meet Emmanuel Hernandez

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Emmanuel Hernandez a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Emmanuel , first a big thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts and insights with us today. I’m sure many of our readers will benefit from your wisdom, and one of the areas where we think your insight might be most helpful is related to imposter syndrome. Imposter syndrome is holding so many people back from reaching their true and highest potential and so we’d love to hear about your journey and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

I’ve struggled with feelings of inadequacy as a dancer and choreographer, only to discover it’s a common issue in the performing arts. Rather than comparing myself to others, I focus on personal growth and progress. By setting individual goals and acknowledging small victories, I’ve shifted my mindset to celebrate my successes.
To build confidence, I recognize and appreciate my accomplishments, whether mastering a challenging step or receiving positive feedback. I transform negative self-talk into positive affirmations, reminding myself of my dedication and unique perspective.
Embracing vulnerability is liberating, and I remind myself that every artist has a unique path. Through mindfulness practices like meditation and journaling, I process my emotions and stay present. Limiting social media and focusing on face-to-face interactions and collaborations reinforces a sense of community and support.
Ultimately, I acknowledge that imperfection is an intrinsic part of artistry, and each performance or choreography is an opportunity for growth and learning. It’s perfectly acceptable if things don’t always go as planned.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am of Puerto Rican descent, I grew up in Spanish Harlem/El Barrio, where my artistic journey began as a dancer. I honed my skills through a scholarship with the Repertory Dance Company when I was 7 years old. I went on to meet many mentors in my life that poured into my passion and excitement for dance. I went on to tour and perform with renowned artists like Ariana Grande, Prince Royce, and Thalía, Wayne Brady, Daddy Yankee, Don Omar and more.
My television credits include appearances on Saturday Night Live and Glee, and I’ve performed in Las Vegas and on Broadway. I’ve had the privilege of working with John Leguizamo as Movement Director for his stand-up show, Latin History for Morons, and as choreographer for his production of Ghetto Klown. My very first Broadway show was Lin-Manuel Miranda’s In The Heights at a Tony award winning regional theater DTC in Dallas, Tx and made my directorial debut with Judy Torres’ off-Broadway show, No Reason to Cry.
Currently, I’m expanding my horizons as a Movement Director in film and stage.
I’m excited to launch El Barrio’s Spotlight, a new dance program at El Barrio’s Artspace in Spanish Harlem, offering classes in various styles.
As a resident at El Barrio’s Artspace PS 109 for the past decade, I’ve been able to explore my creativity and establish my own Salsa Social event, Salsa en El Barrio LLC. Despite facing challenges, I’ve rebuilt relationships and learned valuable lessons, and I’m proud to see my project thriving for 10 years with a dedicated team.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

As a dancer, choreographer, and movement director, three qualities have been vital to my growth: resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Resilience: Bouncing back from setbacks is crucial in the performing arts. View failures as opportunities and embrace challenges. When faced with setbacks, reflect on what you can learn and set small, achievable goals.
Adaptability: Adapting to change—new styles, collaborators, or constructive feedback—is vital. Stay open to new experiences, step outside your comfort zone, and engage with various artistic disciplines to enrich your artistic voice.
Commitment to Continual Learning: Lifelong learning is essential. Attend classes and workshops. Analyze the work of others to gain insights for your own growth.
Embracing these qualities, remaining open to growth, and celebrating your progress will serve you well on your artistic path.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

I am eager to collaborate with artists, dance agencies and esteemed dance instructors from various genres for my new dance program, El Barrio’s Spotlight. Additionally, I am seeking sponsorships and funding to enhance the program, particularly for scholarship opportunities. If anyone is interested in collaborating or joining the team, please feel free to reach out to me at [email protected]

And also follow us on Instagram:
@salsaenelbarrionyc
@elbarriospotlight
@eeh83

Contact Info:

• Instagram: eeh83

Image Credits

Emmanuel Hernandez