About

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Yoshito Sakuraba

Artistic Director/Choreographer

Yoshito Sakuraba is the artistic director of Abarukas and an acclaimed award-winning choreographer. Hailing originally from Japan, Yoshito embarked on his artistic journey in New York City, igniting a career and spanned the globe with the presentation of his work in Germany, Poland, Italy, Spain, Israel, Mexico, and the United States.

Yoshito has had the privilege of presenting his work at stages worldwide, including the Joyce Theater, BAM Fisher, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Jacob's Pillow, Kaatsbaan, and the McCallum Theater, where he had the opportunity to participate in the Palm Desert Choreography Festival. His dedication to his craft led him to numerous accolades, including the Best Choreography Award at the FINI Dance Festival in Italy and the Audience Award at the Masdanza International Contemporary Dance Festival in Spain. Notably, he was honored as a winner of NW Dance Project's Pretty Creatives and Whim W'Him's Shindig.

Beyond his own company's repertoire, Yoshito has been entrusted with commissions from institutions and companies around the world. His innovative choreography has graced the stages of renowned organizations such as NW Dance Project, Whim W’Him, the Bayerisches Staatsballett in Munich, DAF in Rome, Lamondance in Vancouver, Louisville Ballet, Ballet Arkansas, Ballet Des Moines II, Newport Contemporary Ballet, Litvak Dance, Pony Box Dance Theater, Nimbus Dance, Peridance Contemporary Dance Company, Graham II, Houston Contemporary Dance Company, Salt Contemporary Dance’s Link Festival, the Rozsa Center for the Performing Arts, and Jamaica Performing Arts Center.

Yoshito's passion extends to nurturing the artistic expressions of emerging talents, and he has been invited to inspire and instruct at institutions such as the Joffrey Ballet School, Martha Graham School, Paul Taylor School, Alvin Ailey/Fordham University, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, Peabody at Johns Hopkins University, Marymount Manhattan College, Barnard College, Vassar College, Reed College, DLNY, MOVE l NYC, and Steps on Broadway Conservatory.

Yoshito's artistry has not gone unnoticed by the media, with features on NY1 News and Bric TV on Spectrum Cable Channel where his artistic journey was highlighted. Currently, Yoshito Sakuraba imparts his wisdom and artistry as an educator at both the Martha Graham School and the Joffrey Ballet School. His enduring impact on the world of dance and his commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists serve as a testament to his influence in the realm of contemporary dance.

"Abarukas a company the dance world must keep a very close eye on"- Wonderful World of Dance

Abarukas

Abarukas' choreographic style blends the tranquility of traditional influences with the energy of contemporary dance. They are especially drawn to the subtle undertones of a performance that remain unseen but leave an indelible mark on the audience. At the heart of the choreographic narrative is a deep fascination with characters entwined in conflict and tragedy. There is an undeniable magnetism in exploring the depths of such characters; they offer a mirror to our vulnerabilities, strengths, and the myriad shades of our humanity. When the stage is illuminated, it's not merely a spotlight on the performers—it's a light cast on the age-old struggles and aspirations that reside within all of us.

In choreographic pursuits, the Company strives for more than just movement; they aim to craft otherworldly spectacles brimming with imagination. Through dance, they explore poignant images and metaphors, crafting narratives resonating with emotions like love, laughter, and human tribulations. Their works engage audiences, drawing them into a universe where tension escalates to its climax, communicated powerfully through dance and music.