About Ivan Flores - Founder

I believe that freedom of self-expression is imperative in the human experience. This expression, when aligned with non-maleficence, love, fun and compassion creates not only self-empathy for but empathy for others. I firmly believe that the art of movement (dance) moves, energizes and unites souls in ways that words simply cannot. The impact of dance does not only empower the individual but the collective as well by bringing the corporal language as means of artistic communication and expressions that society has underestimated at times. I’ve come to realize that sharing our truth, through the art of dance as tool, is not only self-healing but also contributing and inspiring to others around.

As a proud Latino male dancer, my goal as choreographer is to share my cultural background, life experiences and life philosophy through the art of movement. My aim is to start a conversation and connection that promotes unity, empathy, love and a sense of belonging. My goal as dance instructor is to teach others in a fun and dynamic atmosphere that emphasizes kindness and respect towards one another. To acknowledge the duality of the stated above is to recognize the reality we live in. So, the attempt to break barriers of human judgement and antipathy, that may be deeply embedded in society and limits human potential, is crucial when promoting my art. To do so with kindness, compassion and understanding that we all have different abilities is key; especially for those new and entering the wonderful world of dance. With a kind, friendly and fun approach anything is possible!

Ivan Flores (he/him) is a senior B.F.A. dance major at Northern Illinois University (NIU), freelance dancer and choreographer of Hispanic descent. In childhood, he started exploring art by participating in several school festivals and performances in Mexico City. At the age of 13, he moved to Illinois where he discovered his passion in self-taught choreography by creating dances for high school and Quinceañera events. After attending his first dance-technique classes at College of Lake County (CLC), he decided to pursue dance as a full-time career. In 2013, he established LatinoXpressions (LTX) dance, the first Latin dance studio in the Round Lake area. LTX’s focus is on Latin-inspired dance-fitness and dance choreography for Quinceañeras, weddings and community events. Ivan continues his dance passion by teaching Latin dance classes and workshops as well as choreographing for various events and dance concerts. Some of his most notable work and awards include the 2021 CLC's Winter Dance Concert choreography titled "Raíces (roots)" - a tribute to his parents - and the 2025 NIU's Jere Tulk Choreography Scholarship award. Ivan would like to thank to his family, friends, dance mentors, and students for their continued support to his vision and craft.