Reviving the Prestige: Barry Hughson Joins American Ballet Theater as Executive Director
In the world of dance and performing arts, leadership is just as pivotal as the artists who grace the stage. With that in mind, the American Ballet Theater has ushered in a new era by naming Barry Hughson as their new Executive Director. This strategic move aims to propel one of the United States’ most revered dance companies into a future filled with promise, stability, and continued artistic excellence.
The American Ballet Theater, which has been the epitome of ballet in America, was challenged with financial woes, internal tensions, and the abrupt departure of the previous executive director. Recognizing the need for an experienced hand, the theater’s board turned to Hughson, a seasoned dance administration veteran, to steer the ship.
Barry Hughson: A Man with a Mission
At 56, Hughson brings to ABT a treasure trove of experience accumulated across various roles in the dance world. His tenure at the National Ballet of Canada has been marked by a robust record of financial and artistic successes, making him the ideal choice to mend ABT’s recent challenges. A former dancer himself, Hughson retains a profound connection to the art form and a personal understanding of the community’s needs.
Expected to take his post in July, Hughson expressed his enthusiasm and confidence in leading ABT to a bright and financially sound future. His love for the company traces back to his childhood, when he was inspired by the legendary Mikhail Baryshnikov. Now, he looks forward to contributing to its legacy.
The Partnership for Progress
Working closely with Susan Jaffe, ABT’s Artistic Director, Hughson is poised to establish a dynamic partnership that will foster innovation and broaden the reach of ballet as a cultural asset. Andrew F. Barth, the chairman of ABT’s board, shares the sentiment of excitement about this new leadership team and its vision for the future of the theater.
The appointment of Barry Hughson is a beacon of hope for the American Ballet Theater, its artists, and its patrons. It is a commitment to excellence and a testament to the theater’s resilience. With Hughson at the helm, the company is set to pirouette towards a future where the beauty of ballet continues to touch lives, and the theater remains a venerated institution in American dance.
