Ballet de Barcelona (BDB) was founded in 2019 with a clear purpose: to create a professional dance company where dancers could thrive artistically, feel safe, and be celebrated for who they are. For Artistic Director and CEO Chase Johnsey, the company’s creation was deeply personal. Having faced many roadblocks, traumas, and challenges throughout his own career, he envisioned a company built on the values of inclusivity, respect, and artistic freedom — a place where dancers could focus entirely on the joy of dancing and grow in a supportive environment. From the very beginning, BDB has been a company where diversity is central, not just in words but in action. Its roster includes dancers from every livable continent, reflecting the global language of dance. The company is fully gender-inclusive, embracing artists across the entire spectrum of identity. As an American leading a company in Spain, Chase has prioritized honoring all Spanish cultures: Providing Spanish language classes as part of the company’s daily curriculum. Incorporating local Catalan traditions into education programs and performances, such as collaborations with Castellers and Esbart Dansaire Rubí in Trencanous (The Nutcracker). Celebrating both regional and national identities through repertoire choices and community engagement. ​This philosophy has shaped not just BDB’s artistic voice but also its workplace culture — a company where dancers feel valued, seen, and supported.