Alberta Ballet has selected Francesco Ventriglia as Artistic Director, following an executive search process led by Arts Consulting Group (ACG). He began his tenure on January 8, 2024.
Ventriglia, a distinguished dancer, director, and choreographer of classical and contemporary ballet, commenced his artistic journey at the La Scala Theatre Ballet School and quickly ascended to join the prestigious La Scala Ballet Company in 1997. Notable milestones in his career span his soloist debut in William Forsythe’s In The Middle, Somewhat Elevated, his portrayal of the Bronze Idol in Natalia Makarov’s La Bayadère, and other memorable roles, including Toreador in Roland Petit’s Carmen.
He began his choreographic career during his tenure as a dancer at La Scala, having created a diverse repertoire for the La Scala Theatre Ballet School and his own company Heliopolis. His choreographic works have been performed internationally by companies such as La Scala Ballet, Arena di Verona, Bolshoi Theatre, the Mariinsky Ballet, Grande Théâtre du Genève, Royal New Zealand Ballet, the National Ballet of Uruguay, and at the Venice Biennale.
Ventriglia's leadership roles include serving as Artistic Director for the Florence Opera House, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the National Ballet of Uruguay, and Sydney Choreographic Centre.
In making the announcement, Alberta Ballet Board Chair Heather Rae said, “We are excited to welcome Francesco to Alberta and into our vibrant dance community. Francesco brings a wealth of knowledge and experience, and Albertans can look forward to a new chapter with more of Alberta Ballet’s high-quality inspirational programming.”
Alberta Ballet President & CEO Chris George stated: “We’re grateful to everyone who offered their time, insight and expertise to this search process, especially the selection committee and Arts Consulting Group. We look forward to introducing Francesco to Alberta Ballet’s many stakeholder groups across the province.”
“I am thrilled and deeply honored to join Alberta Ballet as the next Artistic Director. Having come to know this company, I eagerly anticipate collaborating with its remarkably talented artists. I am grateful for this opportunity to bring to fruition some incredible dreams alongside the company, where we can honor the past while crafting an extraordinary future together,” said Francesco Ventriglia. “The future shines brightly for Alberta Ballet, and I couldn't be more excited to be part of it. I am eager to explore Canada and the remarkable stories that hold a special place in the hearts of Albertans.”
“Congratulations to Francesco Ventriglia on his appointment as Artistic Director at Alberta Ballet,” said ACG Vice President Geoff Chang. “Francesco is a trusted arts leader, whose innovative vision and wealth of experience will build upon Alberta Ballet’s excellence.”