Harper Watters has broken down obstacles atHouston Ballet, becoming the company’s first Black, gay principal dancer after 14 years of advancing through the ranks. The pioneering performer, who has a notable record ofalmost a million social media fans, was promoted to the esteemed position last spring.
Watters’ path to success started when he came to Houston at 16 for a six-week summer intensive with Houston Ballet. What was intended to be a short-term experience ultimately transformed his life.
“They gave me a position in the second company, and to be honest, I wasn’t sure what that really meant. I heard about a contract, and I thought you get to train here for a year… So I called my parents and told them this was my chance,” Watters remembered.
That instant resulted in 14 years of commitment and development while part of the Houston Ballet. For Watters, performing on stage offers an unmatched experience.
“There’s an unexplainable sensation of being on stage, as if time stands still, and you are fully engaged in a moment that’s so unique that it’s entirely up to you,” he explained.
The leading dancer’s journey into ballet started during elementary school performances in New Hampshire, where he was raised by adoptive parents who welcomed him at only two weeks old. Their consistent encouragement played a key role in his achievements.
“They provided me with the freedom to fly here to Texas, and they have been present at every show… It was never ‘no,’ it was ‘let’s do this together,'” Watters stated.
In addition to his live performances, Watters has built a significant online following, leveraging his platform to display his character and fashion outside of the stage. He presents himself with his usual style.
I can remain calm, cool, and composed, I can be fabulous, fierce, and fearless,” he said with a laugh, “You can also include flexible.
Watters sees his 14 years in Houston as “14 chapters of his life” and is proud of the effort he has put in to become what he refers to as a “ballet barrier breaker.” The company just came back from shows in Japan, and when Watters found out about his promotion to principal dancer, he quickly called his parents and posted his new title on Instagram.
His groundbreaking accomplishment introduces variety to the realm of professional ballet.
