Military Service and Transition to the Arts

After completing high school, Trujillo served in the military and spent a period working in Germany. Upon his discharge, he became an alpine ski instructor in Taos, New Mexico—a role that earned him recognition in France’s Ski Flash Magazine for his distinctive teaching style. His travels through South and Central America, including Mexico and Argentina, sparked a renewed interest in exploring and expressing his cultural roots through art.

Beginnings in Theater and Dance

Trujillo began his artistic career as a scenic painter in the theater before landing his first paid role as an actor and dancer in a stage production of Equus. Although he had no formal acting training, his involvement in high school drama helped prepare him for the role. This early experience laid the foundation for a successful and enduring career in performance art.

Nikolais Dance Theatre and American Indian Dance Theatre

Trujillo rose to prominence as a soloist with the Nikolais Dance Theatre, a renowned company known for its innovative approach to modern dance. He went on to become an original choreographer and co-director of the American Indian Dance Theatre, a groundbreaking ensemble that celebrates Native American culture through performance. With a career in theater and film that spans over 30 years, Trujillo has also worked as a host for multiple dance program series.