Nico DeJesus celebrating as he throws the first pitch at a Padres game.
Nico DeJesus, a devoted San Diego Padres fan and Broadway performer, had the privilege of throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a recent game. Known for his role as dance captain in ‘Hell’s Kitchen,’ DeJesus has shown dedication both in the arts and to his hometown. With his impressive career, he continues to inspire the next generation of performers while balancing performances and mentorships.
San Diego – Nico DeJesus, a lifelong fan of the San Diego Padres and an accomplished Broadway performer, had the honor of throwing the ceremonial first pitch at a Padres home game on July 5. His connection to the team is rooted in his love for baseball and the city he hails from.
DeJesus is best known as the dance captain for the Broadway musical “Hell’s Kitchen,” which showcases the creativity of 17-time Grammy Award-winner Alicia Keys. The musical debuted on Broadway at the Shubert Theatre on April 20, 2024, and is inspired by Keys’ life experiences in New York City. Within just six months of the show’s opening, DeJesus was promoted from the ensemble to the role of dance captain, which comes with significant responsibilities. This includes ensuring that the choreographer’s vision is preserved through disciplined rehearsals and performances.
His skills and commitment to the craft have garnered respect from industry peers, including Tony-nominated choreographer Camille A. Brown. DeJesus has demonstrated his dedication to the world of dance and performance throughout his career, reflecting his passion for the arts.
While pursuing his role in “Hell’s Kitchen,” DeJesus faced unique challenges. He was unable to attend in-person auditions due to scheduling conflicts and submitted a video audition during a break in San Diego. His talent led him to participate in two concurrent workshops for both “Hell’s Kitchen” and the musical “& Juliet,” before fully dedicating himself to “Hell’s Kitchen.”
His performances have also reached prestigious stages, including the 77th annual Tony Awards, where “Hell’s Kitchen” received an impressive 13 nominations, including Best Musical. Alicia Keys has publicly lauded the choreography of the show, recognizing the outstanding dance performances that elevate the production.
Nico DeJesus has also found mentorship in Christopher Jackson, recognized for his role in “Hamilton.” Their relationship extends beyond performance, as they bond over shared interests in sports and personal experiences, providing a professional backdrop for DeJesus’s growth in the industry.
Despite his success, DeJesus maintains a commitment to giving back to the arts community. He teaches dance classes across the United States, from New York to his hometown of San Diego, exemplifying his dedication to fostering the next generation of performers. His foundational training was established at the San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, where he acknowledges former teacher Donald Robinson as a key figure in his discipline and training.
In addition to his educational contributions, DeJesus’s family played a supportive role in the community by establishing a dance studio within their home, allowing local students to rehearse and refine their skills. He furthered his education at UCLA, earning a degree in World Arts and Cultures with an emphasis in dance.
Throughout his career, DeJesus has had notable roles, including his portrayal of “Romeo” in the national Broadway tour of Disney’s “Newsies” in 2014, as well as performances in various off-Broadway productions. Looking ahead, he is set to perform as Graffiti Pete in a special production of “In the Heights” at the Broadway at Music Circus in Northern California from August 1 to 7, before returning to the Broadway production of “Hell’s Kitchen.”
Excited about returning to California, DeJesus highlights the pride he feels about showcasing his talent in front of his home state audience, representing a remarkable journey from a local Padres fan to a celebrated Broadway performer.
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