English National Ballet has announced that Aaron S. Watkin will be its new Artistic Director. This follows the news earlier this year that Tamara Rojo will step down in late 2022 to take up the position of Artistic Director of San Francisco Ballet.
Watkin comes to English National Ballet from the Semperoper Ballett in Dresden, Germany, where he has served as Artistic Director since 2006. During his tenure, he has built an internationally respected reputation for the company, known for the diversity of its artists and repertoire. He has presented works by some of the world’s most renowned choreographers, from George Balanchine to Pina Bausch, William Forsythe to Martha Graham.
Watkin’s appointment as Artistic Director sees him return to English National Ballet having previously danced with the company thirty years ago. Born in Canada, his stage career also saw him dance with National Ballet of Canada, Dutch National Ballet and Ballett Frankfurt, before becoming a Choreographic Assistant to William Forsythe, staging his works throughout the world.
Watkin will spend time with the Company, meeting regularly with dancers and staff before officially taking up the role of Artistic Director in August 2023.
Featured Photo of Aaron S. Watkin © Jubal Battisti
