HOUSTON - A ballet instructor has filed a lawsuit against River Oaks Dance, asking the court to find a non-compete clause unenforceable.
Seeking declaratory judgment, Holda Torres filed the suit April 8 in Harris County District Court.
According to the lawsuit, Torres is highly trained and certified by world-renowned dance institutions, including the American Ballet Theater and the Royal Academy of Dance. From 2018 to 2023, she taught dance for children in association with River Oaks Dance.
On March 20, 2023, Torres signed an employment contract with River Oaks Dance, which included a non-compete clause. Four months later, on July 30, 2023, the company terminated her employment, releasing her from the part of the clause pertaining to Houston Ballet but claimed the rest of the clause would remain in effect.
Torres claims the clause has limited her ability to earn a living and is unenforceable under Texas law.
Attorney Bryce Buchmann of Bush & Ramirez represents her.
Case No. 2024-21941