This prestigious recognition places Ochoa among a global cohort of artists whose work is shaping the future of dance.
Oregon Ballet Theatre (OBT) is thrilled to announce that Company Artist Juliette Ochoa has been named one of Dance Magazine’s “25 to Watch in 2026”, a highly regarded annual list celebrating the most exciting emerging voices in dance.
Juliette Ochoa | Photo by Christopher Peddecord
About Dance Magazine’s 25 to Watch
The Dance Magazine “25 to Watch” list spotlights dancers, choreographers, and creators whose artistry, momentum, and distinctive perspectives mark them as artists to follow in the year ahead. Juliette’s inclusion reflects her growing national and international recognition as a dynamic and versatile performer.
Juliette Ochoa’s Artistic Journey
A native of Phoenix, Arizona, Juliette Ochoa began her ballet training under Nancy Crowley and Daniel Baudendistel before joining Ballet Arizona’s Studio Company, where she performed soloist roles in The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker.
She continued her training with Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Professional Division and earned her BFA from USC Kaufman, graduating summa cum laude under the direction of William Forsythe and Jodie Gates. Her professional experience includes performing with Aspen Santa Fe Ballet and being selected to dance work by Marcos Morau at the b12 Dance Festival in Berlin, Germany.
At Oregon Ballet Theatre
Since joining Oregon Ballet Theatre, Juliette has been praised for her musicality, technical clarity, and emotional depth. She excels across both classical and contemporary repertoire, bringing intelligence and nuance to every role she performs.
“I’m incredibly honored to be included in Dance Magazine’s 25 to Watch. To be recognized alongside so many inspiring artists is deeply meaningful. I’m grateful to Oregon Ballet Theatre for fostering a uniquely supportive culture and environment where curiosity, risk-taking, and growth are encouraged.”
— Juliette Ochoa
“We are so proud of Juliette and this well-deserved recognition. She brings an extraordinary combination of intelligence, generosity, and artistry to her work. Juliette is constantly evolving, and this honor reflects the exciting trajectory of her career.”
— Dani Rowe, Artistic Director, Oregon Ballet Theatre
To view the full Dance Magazine 25 to Watch in 2026 list, visit DanceMagazine.com. Visit Juliette Ochoa’s OBT Company Artist page to learn more about her.
About Oregon Ballet Theatre
Oregon Ballet Theatre (OBT) is the largest professional ballet company in Oregon, employing more than 300 people and attracting artists from around the globe with its reputation for excellence. Rooted in the traditions of classical ballet, OBT’s repertoire ranges from timeless classics to premieres by some of today’s most exciting choreographic voices – including Artistic Director Dani Rowe.
In addition to its five-show main stage season, OBT introduces students to ballet and the importance of lifelong movement through robust education and community engagement programs. Through the Oregon Ballet Theatre School, dancers from age three to 80 train in professional and recreational classes. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers with companies including the Joffrey, Dutch National Ballet, and Oregon Ballet Theatre itself.
World-class art, locally made since 1989.
