Just one day after Miami City Ballet‘s 2025-2026 programming was published, the company announced that Lourdes Lopez would be stepping down from the helm as Artistic Director come the end of the 2024-2025 season.
Lopez has been credited with positively transforming Miami City Ballet through a long period of growth thanks to her profound industry knowledge, her ability to scout the best talent, and her willingness to expand with “groundbreaking” repertoire while also staying loyal to the company’s roots.
In a statement, Lopez expresses:
“The past thirteen years have been a journey of profound artistic and personal fulfillment, and I am incredibly proud of what we have built together.
Miami City Ballet has become one of the world’s premier ballet companies—a leading voice in dance, with our extraordinary artists and repertory earning global respect. This recognition belongs to the entire MCB team, whose dedication and passion have brought our work to life day in and day out. You get what you give, and with MCB and its dancers, I have already been given so much.
While I am not leaving for a specific opportunity, I feel I have more to give and am eager to find a new platform to further contribute to the performing arts.
It has been an honor to serve this company and the vibrant community that has embraced us so wholeheartedly.”
Lourdes Lopez at Miami City Ballet
Along with her accomplishments in the day-to-day successes of Miami City Ballet, Lopez has also invested in future generations of the organization with her attention to the development of Miami City Ballet School.
She has also curated the company’s upcoming milestone 40th anniversary season ensuring that Miami City Ballet continues to live up to its reputation as one of the world’s leading ballet companies.
Jeff Davis, Chair of the Board of Trustees, shares his appreciation for Lopez and how her impact will shape the future:
“Miami City Ballet has flourished under Lourdes’ leadership, and we are profoundly grateful for her vision, passion, and tireless dedication to the company. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations of dancers, audiences, and supporters.
The upcoming 40th Anniversary Season is a testament to her extraordinary impact, and we look forward to celebrating her invaluable contributions throughout the year.
MCB’s Board of Directors recently adopted a strategic framework with valuable input from Lourdes. The plan outlines initiatives centered on three main objectives: elevating Miami’s profile as a national arts and cultural leader; growing artists and arts enthusiast; and building an endowment for future sustainability. This strategic direction will help guide our search for the next Artistic Director.”
Featured Photo of Lourdes Lopez from Miami City Ballet’s website.
