Wheeldon's Influence On Dores André

Wheeldon’s Influence On Dores André

One Dancer's Reflection on 25 Years of Wheeldon's Visionary Collaborations

This season marks 25 years since Christopher Wheeldon first worked as a choreographer here at SF Ballet, launching a career that has profoundly shaped the landscape of contemporary ballet.

Wheeldon’s commitment to nurturing dancers and fostering artistic growth has left an enduring legacy. One dancer who joined the corps de ballet just a few years after Wheeldon's inaugural work with the company is now Principal Dancer, Dores André, who credits him for some of her first soloist opportunities and shaping her own movement style. “Chris will deny it, but I truly believe I owe him my career. He has helped me grow as both a dancer and an artist. So much of what I bring to my dancing—my movement, my taste, my approach—has been shaped by his influence.”

Dores André, Myles Thatcher in Wheeldon's *Ghosts*©. (© Erik Tomasson)

Wheeldon’s innate ability to bridge tradition and innovation is what sets him apart. From creating narrative masterpieces like Cinderella to abstract works that mesmerize with their pure movement, his body of work is as diverse as it is compelling. Through it all, Wheeldon has shown a profound respect for ballet’s classical foundations while boldly pushing its boundaries. His ability to collaborate with artists across disciplines has resulted in productions that feel rich, layered, and alive—a testament to his visionary spirit.

"His choreography is marked by a signature fluidity and emotional depth, often exploring complex themes through striking visual compositions and inventive use of movement. Beyond that, Chris excels in cross-disciplinary collaboration, incorporating elements of theater, music, and visual art to create immersive, multidimensional productions. His ability to balance artistic integrity with audience engagement truly sets him apart as a transformative figure in both ballet and the broader performing arts.”

–Dores André

What makes Wheeldon’s journey notable is the depth of his personal connection to the art form. As André reflects: “But what’s most remarkable about Chris is that his mastery goes beyond the pursuit of expert performance or success. His work feels rooted in something deeper—a lifelong process of learning, artistic expression, and embracing the moment. At the same time, he’s dedicated to helping others grow, which is a testament to his generosity and commitment to the art form.”