Jodie Gates named Artistic Director of Cincinnati Ballet

January 18, 2022

Jodie Gates smiling while seated on blue theater seats

Jodie Gates | Photo courtesy of Cincinnati Ballet

USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance Founding Director and Professor of Dance Jodie Gates has been named Cincinnati Ballet’s next Artistic Director. In her new role, Gates will set the artistic direction of the Company that includes 27 Company artists and 12 Second Company – CB2 dancers, as well as the Cincinnati Ballet Otto M. Budig Academy Professional Training Division, and all Academy training divisions.

For 35 years, Gates has contributed to the profession as a visionary leader, artistic director, arts educator, stager, choreographer and dancer. She is a former principal ballet dancer with the Joffrey Ballet, Pennsylvania Ballet, Frankfurt Ballet and Complexions Contemporary Ballet. In addition to her role as the Founding Director of USC Kaufman, she is the Artistic Director and Founder of the Laguna Dance Festival in Laguna Beach, Calif. and an accomplished choreographer.

“We congratulate and wish Jodie all the best as she moves into this new position,” said Dean Robert Cutietta. “The impact she made on the Kaufman School will be felt for years to come and we will always be grateful for her contributions.”

Read the full press release at cballet.org.