Royal Ballet prima ballerina Tamara Rojo has been appointed the new artistic director of English National Ballet (ENB) today.
Rojo, 37, will take over in September from current director Wayne Eagling, whose unexpected departure after seven years was announced in February. Rojo, who was formerly a principal dancer at ENB, is also expected to continue performing with the company as a dancer, as well as her new administrative role as artistic director.
"I am honored to have been asked by the board of English National Ballet to be their next Artistic Director," said Rojo.
"I have very fond memories of my time as a dancer with English National Ballet and nothing could make me prouder than to return to this internationally respected company, with its wonderful dancers and invaluable legacy in bringing dance to the nation. I am particularly excited about working with young British choreographers, building strong relationships with our audiences in the regions, and exploring opportunities across other art forms," she added.
John Talbot, chairman of ENB, said that she would "use her worldwide reputation and creative vision" to form collaborations throughout the United Kingdom and the world.
"She is looking forward to developing, mentoring, and showcasing young talent within the Company, and building the profiles of those who are already performing at the highest level," Talbot commented.
The Spanish dancer was born in Canada in 1974 and moved to Spain with her family at her early age, where she started taking dance classes. After relocating to the United Kingdom in 1996, she danced with Scottish Ballet, English National Ballet, and Royal Ballet. After she joined ENB in 1997, she began to earn worldwide acclaim.
She was named the "Dance Revelation of the Year" by the London Times in 1997 after her performance as Clara in The Nutcracker. At 37, she already sits on the board of various arts organizations including Arts Council East and Dance UK.
ENB will announce plans for its 2013 season under the new leadership of Tamara Rojo in September this year.
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