ERIC MICHAEL HERNANDEZ

World Renowned Native American Hoop Dancer and Filmmaker

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES THROUGH STORYTELLING ONLINE

With almost 500,000 followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, Eric Hernandez uses his platforms to challenge stereotypes, share Native American culture, and build a connected community.

His engaging content blends tradition with contemporary storytelling, fostering meaningful interactions and celebrating Indigenous heritage.

BRINGING NATIVE AMERICAN HOOP DANCE TO THE WORLD

With over 20 years of expertise, Eric Hernandez has performed on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, sharing the beauty and tradition of Native American hoop dance. As the lead character in Cirque du Soleil’s Totem, he has mesmerized audiences across 20 countries, performing for over 10 million people.

Courage Opens in Theaters

Catch Courage at Laemmle Monica Film Center as part of Shorts by the Sea Vol. 7.
Dates: September 12th–18th, 2025
Time: Daily at 4:00 pm
Location: Santa Monica, California

COMMUNITY VOICES ON COURAGE

  • “Courage elevates hoop dancing to another level by bringing it into a new medium and including our young people from Lightning Boy in the process. It shows kids that hoop dancing is only the beginning—that they can also make films, tell their own stories, and create work they will be proud of. Their stories matter, and this film demonstrates that with confidence and professionalism. I look forward to seeing the longer version in the future.”


    — Governor George Rivera, Governor of the Pueblo of Pojoaque

  • “There’s been a plan to lift us up as a people for thousands of years. Courage is a beginning to bring that clear message. All the teachings and all the ways to understand have always been here, and this film brings them out. When communities everywhere see it, they’ll see that our community has that energy—we can do that. This film restores the beauty and wisdom of our people, and because it is wrapped in spirituality, we think of it as a spiritual work that honors our Creator and our ancestors.”


    — Dennis Bowen Sr., Respected Elder and Powwow MC

  • “Representation Matters. I've had a chance to see this short film multiple times. I am inspired by its message every time. Now, more than ever, t is so important for artists to tell stories that expand and embrace positive representation of people of color. This film is a perfect example of how to do it -- with passion, heart, and great storytelling. It is making the film festival run. If it screens in your city, go and support this wonderful film, and wonderful filmmakers.”

    — Ligiah Villalobos, Writer/Producer/Educator

  • “Minute by minute, this short adds up to emotional excellence and transcends the sum of its talented parts - cinematography, acting, direction, editing, etc...The natural transfer of "hoops" from conventional to traditional is an insight from a talented filmmaker knowing how to make the story centric to his vision. It is a feel good short that can easily be imagined as a unique feature film. Hopefully we can see that one day too! Thanks.”


    — Chris Eyre, American film director

  • “I love short films that tackle tradition and identity, and Courage is so inspiring to watch. Eric Hernandez hit the bullseye with this film. From the actors to the storyline to the cinematography, everything was top notch. For a first film, it feels like the work of an experienced filmmaker. Courage is powerful, uplifting, and motivating—you don’t have to be Native American to connect with it. We all need to be reminded of the light that shines in all of us, and this film does exactly that.”

    — Ward Bond, Host of Bond On Cinema

UPCOMING COURAGE SCREENINGS

Stay in the loop with Eric Hernandez’s Courage by checking his calendar for upcoming screenings, release dates, performances, and more!

When you book Eric Hernandez, you’re bringing a breathtaking display of artistry to your event. Each performance showcases the intricate storytelling of Native American culture, weaving together tradition, athleticism, and vibrant visuals that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

BOOK A PERFORMANCE

Engaging Cultural Education and Storytelling

CONTACT ERIC

MUSIC OF COURAGE IS LIVE

Album cover for The Sound of Courage, featuring a young boy with a red headband and scarf, holding a hoop, with a dark background and glowing sparks.

The heartbeat of Courage is its music. We are thrilled to share that the soundtrack and the original score are now streaming. This film centers around music and we are honored to have worked with extraordinary artists who brought the story to life.

The main theme

Created by Abraham Thomas
An unforgettable anthem that sets the tone for the entire film. It pulses with energy, rhythm, and heart. This is the song that carries Courage forward. From Abraham

”This song is a little bit about my story and a little bit about Eric’s story. Pursuing my dreams, holding on to my heritage, and pushing through every challenge has taken courage. And step by step, that courage is what allows me to keep moving forward and sharing my story."

The original score

Composed by Geneviève Gros-Louis Salamone
A sweeping and emotional score that blends Indigenous sounds with rich orchestral writing and a modern edge. It elevates every moment and invites you deeper into the world of Courage. From the composer:

“So much heart went into this music. I set out to weave traditional Indigenous sounds with cinematic orchestration and a touch of urban to tell the story of a young hoop dancer discovering his love for hoop dancing.”

BOOK A SCREENING OF COURAGE

Bring Courage to your school, organization, or community by booking an exclusive screening of the award-winning short film. This powerful story follows a young Indigenous boy as he reconnects with his culture through hoop dance, sparking conversations around identity, resilience, and belonging.

Perfect for cultural events, educational programs, and film nights, Courage leaves a lasting impact on audiences of all ages.

LEARNING THROUGH COURAGE

Close-up of a young Native American woman with braided hair, wearing a necklace, looking thoughtfully in profile, with a text overlay reading 'Courage: A Learning Companion' and additional phrases about identity, the next generation, and stereotypes.

Courage invites audiences into a deeply personal story of identity, culture, and resilience; But the lessons don’t end when the credits roll. Our Learning Companion was created to extend the conversation beyond the screen, offering powerful insights for students, educators, and community members alike.

And after you've watched Courage and had a chance to reflect or discuss, we'd love to hear from you. Your insights help us continue the conversation and uplift Native voices through storytelling.

Legacy Vision Productions celebrates Indigenous creativity by championing Native artists across all mediums.

JOIN THE LEGACY:

Native Artists Network

Eric Hernandez, founder and director, is not only passionate about sharing his own journey, but also about uplifting other Indigenous creatives. Whether you're a Native American dancer open to gigs, or an artist working in film, music, writing, or beyond. Legacy Vision Productions wants to know you.

Two people standing on a dark stage, one person dressed in traditional Indigenous clothing including fringed boots and ringed hoops, while the other person appears to be showing something on a mobile phone.
Three men on stage, one holding a yellow spherical sculpture, and another holding a microphone, with an audience in the background.
Two performers wearing traditional Indigenous clothing are playing with hoops outdoors under a clear blue sky, with trees and a fence in the background.
Three men standing on a runway with their arms around each other, celebrating at a fashion show, with a large crowd in the background and a screen projection of themselves in the background.
A Native American performer dressed in traditional attire, including a colorful embroidered vest and fringed clothing, spinning a hula hoop at an outdoor gathering with seated audience members in the background.
Group of Native Americans in traditional clothing, dancing outdoors on a bright day with clouds in the sky.
Six men dressed in traditional Indigenous attire and modern casual clothing, posing together in an indoor setting with a high ceiling and wall-mounted lights.

GET INVOLVED

Legacy Vision Artist Network

As Eric continues directing and producing new work, he's committed to collaborating with and recommending other Native talent. If you're a Native creative, we invite you to introduce yourself below and become part of the growing network behind the vision.