Luisa Valderrama
Performing with Grace, Expressing with Power
Luisa is a performer at heart, having always been drawn to stages and audiences. Never one to back away from a creative challenge, she joined her high school hip hop dance team after being teased for her inability to dance. Little did they know, it would forever change her life’s trajectory.
After finishing 4 years of dance in high school, she took on a new challenge and moved from Medellin, Colombia to the U.S., having been offered the opportunity by her father. She immediately began taking ESL classes so she could enroll in Mesa Community College, studying the performing arts. She expanded her performance toolbelt to include acting on stage, in cosmetic commercials, modeling and public speaking, all while confidently navigating a new language and culture. She says, “I only realize I have stage fright when I get on the stage!” But nothing would keep her away from it.
Though Luisa enjoyed her new home, she longed to remain grounded in her Latin roots. Thus through the marriage of love for Colombia and love for dance, a latin rhythm group was born. She and her friends toured throughout the region captivating audiences with her masterfully choreographed performances. She also brought her vibrant style to Latina girls and their families by crafting unforgettable Quinceañera dances. She was proud to create a space for others that could be a home away from home.
After finishing 4 years of dance in high school, she took on a new challenge and moved from Medellin, Colombia to the U.S., having been offered the opportunity by her father. She immediately began taking ESL classes so she could enroll in Mesa Community College, studying the performing arts. She expanded her performance toolbelt to include acting on stage, in cosmetic commercials, modeling and public speaking, all while confidently navigating a new language and culture. She says, “I only realize I have stage fright when I get on the stage!” But nothing would keep her away from it.
Though Luisa enjoyed her new home, she longed to remain grounded in her Latin roots. Thus through the marriage of love for Colombia and love for dance, a latin rhythm group was born. She and her friends toured throughout the region captivating audiences with her masterfully choreographed performances. She also brought her vibrant style to Latina girls and their families by crafting unforgettable Quinceañera dances. She was proud to create a space for others that could be a home away from home.
After getting married and joining Bethel Chandler, she was invited to the bExalted dance team, where she learned for the first time she could use her whole body to worship God. She calls it, “the most beautiful thing I’ve ever done.” Her faithfulness to serving God using her gifts opened a door for her to become a featured player with StoryTellers, playing in minor and starring roles. Less than a year later, she traveled with StoryTellers to Hermosillo, Sonora, where she shared the Gospel through street skits and stage performances before thousands.
For Luisa, performing was always simply about the love of the art. Now, it’s about pouring herself out for others. Whether she’s delivering the nostalgia of fond memories from home, or interpreting the testimony of Jesus to other nations, she clearly knows her calling, and is committed to living fearlessly as she does it.
For Luisa, performing was always simply about the love of the art. Now, it’s about pouring herself out for others. Whether she’s delivering the nostalgia of fond memories from home, or interpreting the testimony of Jesus to other nations, she clearly knows her calling, and is committed to living fearlessly as she does it.