Who Is the Artistic Director of the New York City Ballet?
The New York City Ballet is one of the world’s most renowned and respected ballet companies, and its artistic director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the company’s production. Currently, that person is none other than Peter Martins, a former principal dancer with the company.
Martins was born in Denmark in 1946 and began his dance training at the Royal Danish Ballet School at age 11. He joined the Royal Danish Ballet in 1964 and became a principal dancer in 1969. During his time with the company he danced a variety of leading roles in both classical and contemporary works.
In 1983, Martins left Denmark to join the NYCB as a principal dancer and ballet master. He soon rose through the ranks to become co-ballet master with Jerome Robbins in 1990, and then sole ballet master when Robbins retired later that year. In 1993, Martins was appointed artistic director of New York City Ballet, succeeding Robbins.
In his role as artistic director, Martins has maintained NYCB’s commitment to producing works from both classic and contemporary choreographers such as George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Christopher Wheeldon, and Justin Peck among others. He has also been responsible for commissioning new works from cutting-edge choreographers such as Alexei Ratmansky and Liam Scarlett. Martins also serves on numerous boards including Dance/NYC, an organization dedicated to promoting dance in New York City.
Under Martins’ leadership NYCB has continued to thrive while maintaining its commitment to excellence in dance performance artistry. His passion for dance and dedication to pushing boundaries have kept NYCB at the forefront of dance innovation for over 25 years.
Conclusion:
Peter Martins is currently serving as Artistic Director of New York City Ballet (NYCB). Born in Denmark, he began his career at age 11 when he started training at The Royal Danish Ballet School before joining their professional company as a principal dancer in 1969.
In 1983 he left Denmark to join NYCB where he rose through the ranks until finally being appointed Artistic Director by Jerome Robbins himself upon his retirement from that role in 1993. Under Martins’ guidance NYCB has continued to explore both classic ballets as well as innovative new works from some of today’s most exciting choreographers while still maintaining its commitment to excellence on stage.