Claudia Pizarro

A professional flamenco dancer and teacher with an extensive career in flamenco education and performance. Born in Mexico, Claudia brings a rich cultural heritage to her work, blending Spanish and Mexican influences in her teaching and performances. With years of experience mentoring students of all ages, she has established herself as a dedicated educator and performer, deeply committed to the art of flamenco.

Claudia began her professional career with Ensemble Español in 2002 under the direction of Dame Libby Komaiko. Rising to the rank of First Dancer—the highest rank given to any company member— she was featured in several of the company’s signature works. She later became a professional dancer with Yjastros, The American Flamenco Repertory Company, from 2019 to 2024, where she refined her skills in tablao performance. During this time, she performed at the renowned Tablao Albuquerque and had the privilege of working with esteemed artists such as Concha Jareño, Marco Flores, and Estévez y Paños under the artistic direction of Joaquín Encinias. Her earlier career includes serving as a Dance Instructor for Teens with After School Matters in Chicago from 2014 to 2018.

Throughout her career, Claudia has performed extensively across the United States and throughout the Chicagoland area, sharing the stage with prominent flamenco artists and bringing the passion of flamenco to diverse audiences. In addition to her ongoing role as Artistic Director of Ensemble Español’s Youth Company, she is embarking on a personal project with Casa Triana Flamenco, a school dedicated to fostering flamenco dance and percussion education.

Claudia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Finance from Northeastern Illinois University, graduating with honors in 2008. With a strong background in performance, teaching, and program development, she continues to make a lasting impact on the flamenco community, inspiring the next generation of dancers and musicians.