If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Don’t let your fear overtake your passions. When I was younger, I remember being fearless when it came to trying things in the studio. As I’ve gotten older though, I’ve let the fear of failing at things stop me from wanting to try them in the first place.
Joh Morrill (he/him) is from Seattle, Washington. He studied at Pacific Northwest Ballet and on scholarship at Colburn Dance Academy and attend summer courses at Pacific Northwest Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet, and on scholarship at School of American Ballet and Palluca. Joh […]
What inspires you outside of the studio? Nature is my biggest inspiration outside of the studio and for the most part in my life too. When I’m feeling confused, anxious, sad, or even mad, I always turn to nature. While there are no answers to some questions we may have, spending time in nature leaves me with a sense of balance that I haven’t found anywhere else.
How does your identity and background inform who you are as an artist? My identity as a Latin American man means everything to me. Often in my work, when certain roles allow for it, I try to find a way to add a little extra spice and character to the roles I’m dancing. My grandparents were also ballet dancers at the Ballet Nacional de Guatemala.
What significance does being part of PNB during the 50th anniversary have to you? My mom and I used to have season tickets to PNB when I was in high school, and we would road trip from Portland to see shows a few times a year. I fell in love with this company and its unique dancers and rep.
If you were not a dancer, is there an alternate career path you would have chosen/ Do you have talents or passions outside of dance? I have nearly completed my undergraduate degree at Harvard University (majoring in Applied Math and minoring in Computer Science). Education has always been a prominent part of my life, and I hope to continue with schooling by attending graduate school and earning my master’s degree.
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? Build a good support system, don’t measure success too often, stay available and open to change, and always show up to life in the fullest way possible.
How has your approach to your career changed over the past years? My approach to my work has changed due to my experience in dance over time. As I build more confidence in my abilities, the more I can explore and push myself to the next step.
Describe your perfect day off. I love to make the most of my days off! In the summer, I usually try to get out of the city to hike or camp for a couple hours/overnight. I also love spending days on the lake (so does my dog), and trying new restaurants. On a day off in the winter, you can find me skiing at Alpental or Crystal!
What is the best advice that you've ever received? To consider what the intention is of the choreography. It is important to remember what it is you are trying to convey instead of it merely being a series of steps.