Nasser replaces former CEO Dirk Badenhorst who was suspended by the board in August 2015 and subsequently resigned in November 2015. She will take up her position on Monday, 1 August.

South African-born and educated, Nasser brings an in-depth knowledge of dance and extensive experience in dance company management to the position of Joburg Ballet CEO.

From 1988 to 2000 she was artistic director of the State Theatre Dance Company, one of South Africa’s most highly acclaimed dance companies, and in 2008 filled the same role with Mzansi Productions. Beginning in 1982, she also directed a number of independent dance companies – Movement Inc, Jozi Dance Company, Tshwane Dance Theatre – as well as being invited to work with many South African dance and ballet companies, restaging works by respected international choreographers.

As a choreographer, Nasser has created an extensive repertoire of new works to both commissioned and existing music and soundtracks, winning several awards for choreography.

Nasser became involved in transformation in dance and theatre before South Africa achieved democracy in 1994 and remains actively involved in the process. She has established community and outreach projects, winning the Gauteng Achievement Community/Outreach Award in 1999. Nasser has also taught and lectured at leading South African universities and technikons, and has choreographed and directed extensively for television.

Campbell said: “The Board of Directors of Joburg Ballet welcomes Esther Nasser as the ballet company’s CEO. We look forward to having her as part of the Joburg Ballet family and believe her many years of experience can make an important contribution to the continued growth and well-being of the company.”

Commenting on her appointment, Nasser said: “It is indeed an honour to have been offered this privileged position and I look forward to working with Joburg Ballet and both the Joburg Ballet and Joburg Theatre boards in moving the company forward to meet new challenges.”

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