Three Final Bows: Farewell Reflections from Eugene Ballet Dancers

As the final notes of Carmina Burana faded and applause filled the Hult Center in July, three Eugene Ballet dancers stepped forward for their final bows.

Ethan Boresow, Erin Johnson, and Antonio Lopez each closed a chapter this summer, leaving the stage after an epic farewell performance.

We asked them to share their journeys, their favorite moments, and what comes next. Here are their reflections in their own words.

Ethan Boresow

Five Seasons | First Performance: In Place, 2020

Ethan’s first performance with Eugene Ballet came in the middle of the pandemic. A socially distanced duet in Suzanne Haag’s In Place, complete with “giant social distancing tutus.”

From that unusual debut, he built a career rich with character work and connection. A fan favorite was his performance of Tick-Tock, the crocodile in Peter Pan. His most memorable role was Nick Carraway in The Great Gatsby.

“The stamina challenge thrilled me, but my favorite part was building the character. I thoroughly enjoyed the process as I immersed myself in Nick’s character through studying the novel, film adaptations, and working with Toni.”

Ethan is now headed to Phoenix, Arizona, to train as a physical therapist technician while completing his degree.

“My goal is to help train, strengthen, and rehabilitate dancers and athletes.”

Erin Johnson

Nine Seasons | First Performance: Giselle, 2016

Erin first connected with Eugene Ballet when Artistic Director Toni Pimble visited Texas Christian University for a choreographic residency. “It was a blind move,” she said, “but something in me trusted it.”

Over nine seasons, Erin says her artistry deepened as she learned to let go of perfection.

“My dancing became more rooted in who I am, not who I thought I needed to be. I let go of chasing perfection and started embracing authenticity.”

With her beauty, grace, and presence, Erin has been a captivating part of Eugene Ballet’s story for nearly a decade. One highlight for her was performing in Choros, choreographed by Nicolo Fonte for the company’s BOLD program.

“It challenged me physically and artistically in ways I didn’t expect. I felt seen in a new way.”

Her final performance brought both peace and pride.

“There was sadness in saying goodbye… but also a deep sense of pride. It was fun, fulfilling, and exactly how I hoped to close this chapter.”

Her advice to younger dancers:

“Stay curious. Stay kind. Trust your instincts. And above all, remember that you’re a human first, dancer second.”

And to Eugene audiences:

“Thank you. Your presence, your applause, your love for this art form. I’ve felt your support every step of the way.”

Antonio Lopez

Five Seasons | First Performance: In Place, 2020

Antonio describes the first entrance on the Silva Concert Hall stage as “expansive, dreamy, and confirming that I was on the right track, but the debut came during a live-streamed fundraiser to an empty house.”

“What I’ll remember most is the awareness of how important it is to have people be there… not for validation, but to connect hearts and minds.”

Antonio’s final performance in Carmina Burana was powerful and deeply personal.

“I got to share my own embodiment of human suffering, adversity, and fate via O Fortuna. I was erupting into a volcano of tears… as destiny called me one last time.”

Antonio’s rehearsal memories with Resident Choreographer Suzanne Haag remain a favorite.

“With Suzi, I got to be serious 51 percent of the time and 49 percent silly… The most important feeling to have as a creator is inspiration.”

Antonio steps away from the company with excitement for what’s ahead.

“I am excited to lead and be led toward opportunities that ignite my passion.”

Antonio’s parting message to other dancers:

“Let your quirks out unapologetically… Do what makes you feel most alive in the moment, because that’s exactly what we need.”

And to the Eugene community:

“Thank you. For your divine presence, time, and energy. You are as much a part of the process as the people on stage are.”

As Ethan, Erin, and Antonio begin their next chapters, we are deeply grateful for the years they devoted to Eugene Ballet. Their talent, passion, and artistry have enriched our stages and touched countless hearts in our community.

Artistic Director Jennifer Martin reflected on their time with the company, saying:

“Their contribution to this company and community have helped to create roles, shape new works, add perspective to existing repertoire, and their commitment to their craft will live on within the organization for years to come.”

We thank them for every performance, every rehearsal, and every moment they poured into nurturing the love of dance.

Image credit- Antonio Anacan, Ari Denison, Brita Gilbert, Katie Patrick, Ellen Poulsen