Artistic Director

Lead the Artistic Future of an Established Ballet School

Eastern CT Ballet is seeking an outstanding visionary and collaborative professional to fill the full-time position of Artistic Director for the school and pre-professional training program. The school, established as a 501(c) (3) in 1992, offers excellent classical ballet education in a caring but disciplined environment.

ECB has earned respect and credibility in the dance world. The AD position presents a wonderful opportunity for a ballet educator and artistic leader to develop dancers and coach in a mentor/teacher environment. It is a chance for an experienced teacher with a thorough understanding of ballet pedagogy to train, inspire, guide with kindness, and motivate dancers. An AD with an innovative spirit and a joyful approach to exploring multiple forms of dance and choreography has the potential to influence the next generation of artists.

The candidate should be a self-directed, creative and enthusiastic entrepreneur with a vision for the school’s artistic growth and the ability to build upon the solid foundation of a well- established school, elevating it to the next level.

The AD will work primarily with upper level students, develop their skills, discipline and artistry, and prepare them for higher-level education, college training and/or a career.

Teach technique, pointe, repertoire, variations and performance quality to intermediate and advanced students. Monitor growth and class placement.

Foster a positive environment where students of all talent levels are encouraged to reach their highest potential.

Stage and direct choreography, and create performance opportunities for members of the pre-professional training company and upper level students through productions, festivals, outreach events and guest appearances. Shape the direction of all-school concerts. Actively oversee auditions, casting, rehearsals and production planning.

Work collaboratively with the faculty and staff to accomplish goals.

Prepare students for summer intensives, collegiate dance programs, trainee programs and professional auditions.

Collaborate with guest artists and master teachers to enrich the educational experience.

Build a strong Summer Program.

Expand partnership and collaboration opportunities.

Help with student recruitment, retention and outreach efforts.

Join with the Executive Director and Board to move forward with ECB’s Five Year Strategic Plan that outlines our mission and goals.

Serve as an ambassador for the school in the regional and national dance community.

Represent the school with professionalism, integrity and enthusiasm.

Extensive classical ballet training and professional company experience.

Extensive teaching and leadership experience.

Strong knowledge of pedagogy, development, conditioning and injury prevention.

Strong leadership, organizational, interpersonal and communication skills.

We are looking for a former professional dancer with extensive classical ballet training, credibility in the dance world and leadership experience within a high caliber school or company.

The candidate should be an experienced teacher with a thorough understanding of ballet pedagogy and the ability and passion to create beautiful young artists. This position is also an opportunity for an entrepreneur to build upon the solid foundation of a well-respected, established school and elevate it to the next level.

Eastern CT Ballet is in East Lyme, Connecticut; a lovely shoreline community equidistant between NYC and Boston. The location offers many enriching opportunities to work collaboratively with professional dance and arts organizations in the region and to draw from talent hubs further afield.

The position requires relocation to the area, which has great schools and is a wonderful place to raise a family.

Summers are outstanding.

Competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.