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T&T dancer Achsah Henry is still processing what she describes as a “pinch-me” moment after performing at the World Baseball Classic (WBC) earlier this month.
Henry appeared before an audience of 10.78 million viewers during one of the world’s largest sporting spectacles, under the creative direction of internationally renowned designer Lila Nikole.
Henry, who has built her reputation locally performing alongside soca icon Machel Montano as one of his Monk Dancers, was handpicked by Nikole for the WBC production’s San Juan segment—an opportunity she says represents both a personal triumph and a wider Caribbean possibility.
“Honestly, my experience being part of the World Baseball Classic was so surreal,” she said. “I’m still having moments like, ‘Did that really happen?’
“Being part of something of this magnitude feels like a full-circle moment for me. It’s a reminder that the hard work, the discipline and the belief in myself were all worth it.”
Henry said representing Caribbean culture on such a platform carried deeper meaning.
“It represents possibility, not just for me, but for other Caribbean women who may now see themselves in spaces they once never imagined.”
Nikole, whose résumé includes costume and creative work for the Super Bowl Halftime Show and the BET Awards, as well as major Carnival bands such as Tribe and YUMA in T&T, said her vision for the segment was rooted in cultural authenticity and Caribbean energy.
“I was super excited to represent San Juan and my Puerto Rican heritage,” Nikole explained.
“We got to highlight perreo, our street style, our reggaeton, our soca vibes. I thought it would be dope to bring in Achsah and Stephanie because Achsah is such a powerful stage dancer—she embodies the music.”
Nikole also praised the synergy between the performers.
“Stephanie is a beast when she dances, and the two of them worked so well together. It felt really good to represent my people and my culture on that stage.”
Dominican Republic dancer Stephanie Ballena, who also contributed to choreography, described the production as one of the most fulfilling experiences of her career.
“Being part of the World Baseball Classic is something I will cherish forever,” she said.
“The team was so inspiring and nurturing—it created a safe environment to work in.”
She also highlighted Nikole’s attention to detail in the costume design.
“Lila killed it with the costumes. They were comfortable, flattering, and even had built-in space for in-ears—which is something I’ve never experienced before. That made me feel secure and extra confident on stage.”
For Ballena, the cultural significance of the event added another layer of pride.
“Representing the Caribbean as a Dominican is everything. Baseball is a big deal for us—this World Baseball Classic is like our Super Bowl. My family watches every game.”
Henry noted that Nikole’s creative direction allowed her to fully express her identity as a Caribbean performer.
“Once I saw the direction, I knew I wanted to bring that Caribbean essence through movement—and of course, sprinkle a little soca energy in everything that I do.”
The World Baseball Classic continues to expand its global reach, drawing millions of viewers while blending sport with high-level entertainment production. This year’s showcase featured a multicultural creative team, including contributors from major productions such as the Grammy’s and the Super Bowl.
For Henry, the experience represents more than a single performance—it signals the growing presence of Caribbean talent on the world stage.
“There are so many roadblocks as a Caribbean woman pursuing dance professionally,” she said, “but moments like this show it’s possible.”
As global productions increasingly tap into Caribbean culture for its authenticity and energy, collaborations like this highlight a clear shift—one where regional creatives are not just participating, but helping to shape the narrative.
English (US) ·