Harper Watters isn't just dancing on stage at the Wortham Theater; he's dancing through life with the intention of being unapologetically himself. Born and raised in Dover, New Hampshire, Harper began formal ballet training at the Walnut Hill School for the Arts. His journey into classical ballet began with a love for dance and a need for belonging. Eventually, he left private school behind and found a new home in a performing arts high school, which allowed him to step into his identity while fully embracing the world of ballet.
That path would eventually lead him to the Houston Ballet, where he joined the second company in 2009. From there, he quickly rose through the ranks: corps de ballet in 2012, demi-soloist in 2016, soloist in 2017, and first soloist in 2021. Now 33, Watters has reached a new milestone, a promotion to principal dancer, Houston Ballet's first since 2018. It's proof that his technical excellence, undeniable presence, and individuality set him apart.
Known for his viral treadmill-in-heels videos and behind-the-scenes YouTube series, The Pre Show, Watters has developed a strong social media following. His videos are entertaining, and they broadcast ballet to a wider audience, allowing for conversations about identity, expression, and community.
In the studio, however, Harper is deliberate. "I like to know how it's going to feel in the studio before I get onstage," he says. "By rehearsing a lot in the studio, I am able to fully discover every facet of the role. It makes it possible for me to completely enjoy the performance onstage." His workout regimen includes daily classes, rehearsals, high-intensity interval training, and Pilates. But it's the consistency and thoughtful preparation for each performance that eases his anxiety. "For me, stress and nerves are usually minimal," he says. "I trust the work I put in."
The role of Puck in John Neumeier's A Midsummer Night's Dream is his favorite performance. "Opening night was really special because it was the first time in my career it felt like time stopped onstage," he says. "It showed me what is possible when you fully commit to a role and why dancers are called artists."
As much time as Watters devotes to the stage, he draws just as much from the world around him. His coworkers are always a source of inspiration, "I learn something from every partnership. They inspire me to show up for myself so I can show up for them." Social media also plays a big role in keeping him inspired. "From archival images, performance playbills, museum exhibitions, and contemporary creators, social media is one of the most powerful discovery tools," he says. "I pull from all aspects of my interests and reinterpret them through my point of view."
Fourteen seasons into his career, Watters still sees Houston Ballet as home. "Beyond the dance, Houston Ballet is family," he says. "And I've always known this is where I'm meant to be."
"Dancers like Lauren Anderson left behind a legacy and created a community that has always uplifted who I am. Beyond the dance, Houston Ballet is family, and I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to grow, learn, develop, and soar here for 14 seasons." – Harper Watters