Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Named CEO

Nashville Ballet Board President Dan Slipkovich announced this month that at a recent Nashville Ballet executive board meeting, Paul Vasterling was named CEO of Nashville Ballet in addition to his position of Artistic Director. Slipkovich states, "With the departure of Andrea Dillenburg, who was an integral part of the Ballet's growth, it is a good time to reevaluate the current structure of the organization and utilize the unique skills, both artistically and administratively, that Paul Vasterling brings to this organization. He will provide a cohesive leadership role expanding and guiding Nashville Ballet into the next decade." Heather Thorne, President-elect of the Board, adds, "It is rare to find someone who is so creative and yet possesses management skills with a sound understanding of fiscal responsibilities. We have great confidence in his leadership as the organization moves forward with a sound strategic plan."

Vasterling, a Fulbright Scholar and internationally award-winning choreographer, commences his thirteenth season in 2010/2011. During his tenure, Vasterling's leadership set a new standard for arts development. Over the past twelve years, the company's resources have grown by almost 300% with Nashville Ballet becoming the first local performing arts organization to purchase its own building. Vasterling has sculpTed Nashville Ballet into a world class company with a distinctive style and energy. His commitment to developing the company into an internationally acclaimed organization led him to take Nashville Ballet on tours to South America and Europe. He has also orchestrated partnerships and collaborations with countless local organizations and artists.

Former Board President Laurie Gold Eskind comments, "Paul had always been interested in both the artistic and business sides of the ballet and has worked closely with the executive director, from budgeting to marketing to development as well as the day-to-day operation of the staff, school, and facility to ensure its wise management and success. The active and committed board and I are thrilled that Paul wants to take this on and are totally confident in his abilities to do so. Nashville Ballet is in very good hands."

Jacqueline Hutton has been engaged to serve as an interim executive director, effective May 3, 2010, as Nashville Ballet conducts a national search to fill the executive director position. Hutton, a former Nashville Ballet board member, will sustain the general activities of the organization for the next eight to twelve weeks as well as coordinate the Nashville Ballet 25th Anniversary activities for the 2010/2011 season.

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