Effective immediately, Mthuthuzeli November will be the new Resident Choreographer of Charlotte Ballet. As I Am, his third work for the company – and first while in his new position – will premiere on the upcoming Fall Works: Whispers, Echoes, Voices program.
“Welcoming Mthuthuzeli November as our resident choreographer marks a transformative moment for Charlotte Ballet.
His voice is bold, his movement language deeply human, and his storytelling resonates across cultures. Mthuthuzeli doesn’t just choreograph dances, he creates worlds.
We are very excited to include him as part of our company’s identity.”
– Alejandro Cerrudo, Artistic Director of Charlotte Ballet
The South African artist started his dance training at the age of 15, won Best Contemporary Work twice at the South African International Ballet Competition, made his choreographic debut in 2014 with Cape Dance Company, and joined Ballet Black in 2015.
Among his many recognitions are:
- 2020 Laurence Olivier Award for Best NEw Dance Production: INGOMA
- Emerging Artist Award from Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees
- 2025 Benois de la Danse Award for Best Choreography
Mthuthuzeli November Joins Charlotte Ballet
November’s role will go beyond creating new works for Charlotte Ballet. He will be an integral part of the company’s artistic team, contributing to the evolution of the company’s repertoire and teaching master classes for Charlotte Ballet Academy.
“I am finally surrounded by people who truly understand my movement. That understanding has opened the door to creating the kind of work I have always dreamed of.
I feel welcomed and supported by the company, the dancers, and the overall energy and talent here. There is a real sense of belonging and a feeling that I am home. It gives me the freedom to create authentically, as I am, and with the hope that what we build resonates deeply with audiences across Charlotte.”
– Mthuthuzeli November, Resident Choreographer of Charlotte Ballet
Featured Photo of Charlotte Ballet‘s new Resident Choreographer Mthuthuzeli November. Photo by Isaac Aoki.
