Ballet BC has announced John Clark as the company’s new executive director, replacing Branislav Henselmann who recently moved to head the City of Vancouver cultural services department.
“We are delighted to welcome John to Ballet BC and look forward to introducing him to our community,” says artistic director Emily Molnar in a media release. “John’s vast experience and passion for the arts will contribute in meaningful ways to the company’s future vision.”
Clark joins Ballet BC with a wealth of experience in the arts sector in the United States. His career has spanned both the performing arts and higher education, most recently as the vice president of development at the National YoungArts Foundation in Miami, Florida. Before joining YoungArts, Clark spent nine years at Georgia State University (GSU) in Atlanta. Prior to GSU, Clark was director of development for the Atlanta Ballet.
“I am thrilled to join the leadership team with Emily and the board, working to build upon the substantial current momentum,” says Clark. “The impact this organization is making on the creation and innovation of dance is impressive.”
In the media release, Clark lists his objectives to not only ensure Ballet BC’s sustainability and longevity, but also to increase the company’s visibility, building financial support and deepening community relationships.
A classically trained pianist as a teenager, Clark holds his masters in English literature from Georgia State University, and is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate from the University of Rochester.
“John is a talented and accomplished senior leader with a wealth of experience in the arts and not-for-profit world that will be invaluable to Ballet BC,” says Dr. Kevin B. Leslie, President and Chair of the Ballet BC Board of Directors.