As the new artistic director of American Ballet Theater, Susan Jaffe is poised to usher in a new era of artistic excellence and innovation. With a career spanning over three decades, Jaffe has earned a reputation as a renowned ballerina, choreographer, and teacher. Her appointment marks a significant milestone in the company's 83-year history, and she is eager to leave her mark.
Born in Los Angeles, Jaffe began her dance training at the age of 5 and went on to join the American Ballet Theatre corps de ballet in 1982. She rose through the ranks, becoming a principal dancer and performing iconic roles in productions such as "Swan Lake" and "Giselle." Her technical precision, emotional depth, and captivating stage presence earned her widespread critical acclaim.
After retiring from the stage, Jaffe turned her attention to choreography, creating works for companies such as the New York City Ballet and the Houston Ballet. She has also taught at several prestigious institutions, including the Juilliard School and the University of North Carolina School of the Arts.
As artistic director, Jaffe plans to build on the company's rich legacy while introducing fresh perspectives and artistic visions. She aims to foster a culture of collaboration, encouraging dancers to take on new roles and explore different styles. Her goal is to create a sense of community and shared purpose among the company's members, which she believes will translate into more compelling performances.
Jaffe is also committed to diversifying the company's repertoire, incorporating more contemporary and experimental works alongside the classical ballets that have defined ABT's tradition. She sees this as an opportunity to engage new audiences and provide a platform for emerging choreographers.
One of Jaffe's first priorities is to revitalize the company's touring schedule, which has been limited in recent years due to the pandemic. She plans to take the company on the road, performing in cities across the United States and abroad, and using these performances as a way to build relationships with local arts organizations and audiences.
Throughout her career, Jaffe has been guided by a deep passion for dance and a commitment to excellence. As she embarks on this new chapter at American Ballet Theater, she is determined to leave a lasting impact on the company and the art form as a whole. With her leadership, the future of ABT looks bright, and the possibilities are endless.
