Key Leadership Announcement
The Australian Ballet
The Board of The Australian Ballet is delighted to announce two key leadership appointments:
Artistic Director David Hallberg reappointed to 2030
Artistic Director David Hallberg has been reappointed for a further five-year term through to the end of 2030. Initially appointed in January 2021, Hallberg’s extended contract will ensure the consolidation and growth of his artistic impact.
Now well-known in Australia, David is one of the most renowned dancers of his generation. Trained at the Paris Opera Ballet School and joining the American Ballet Theatre in 2001, he became a Principal Dancer in 2006. In 2011, he made history as the first American to join The Bolshoi Ballet as a Principal Dancer. Hallberg had a long-standing relationship with The Australian Ballet as a guest artist before becoming its eighth Artistic Director in 2021. He has collaborated with esteemed choreographers such as Alexei Ratmansky, Christopher Wheeldon, and Twyla Tharp, and his accolades include the Benois de la Danse and the Princess Grace Statue Award.
David Hallberg said: “My time at The Australian Ballet has been incredibly rewarding, and I am honoured to lead the Company through to 2030. Bringing both classical and contemporary works to stages around the country, we have created world premieres specifically for The Australian Ballet, while embracing new creative possibilities and continuing to define what an arts organisation is in today’s time.”
“I look forward to continuing to engage with Australia’s loyal audiences, showcasing the Company globally, developing our dancers’ artistry, and building on the Company’s remarkable legacy.”
Claire Spencer AM appointed as new Executive Director
In addition, the Board has appointed Claire Spencer AM as its new Executive Director, following an extensive Australian and international search. Claire will begin her role on Monday, 24 March 2025.
Claire is well known within the Australian creative community for her roles at Arts Centre Melbourne (CEO) and Sydney Opera House (COO), and internationally as the CEO of the Barbican Centre in London. Her experience in sustainable growth, financial management, and cultural engagement will accelerate execution of The Australian Ballet’s strategy. She was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for her outstanding contribution to the arts.
Claire Spencer AM said: “It is a true privilege to be appointed Executive Director of The Australian Ballet. The Company has been a significant presence in my life since the 1990s, and I have been consistently impressed by the Company’s ambition, beauty, strength and determination, especially during and after the pandemic.”
“I look forward to working with David Hallberg, the talented artists, and the dedicated staff to build on the Company’s extraordinary legacy and uphold its exceptional standards of ballet for audiences across Australia and beyond,” continued Spencer.
The Australian Ballet’s Chair Dr Richard Dammery said: “The Australian Ballet is one of Australia’s leading cultural institutions, and we continue to build on the Company’s international reputation. David Hallberg has continued the Company’s long tradition of exceptional artistic leadership, and we are thrilled to secure David for another five years. His passion, energy and creative vision has thrilled audiences, with much more to come!”
“We are also delighted to appoint Claire Spencer AM as Executive Director at a crucial time, as we plan an ambitious and sustainable future. Her skills, experience and collaborative leadership stood out as we navigate a changing cultural and audience landscape, as well as time away from our State Theatre home in Melbourne.”
“The Board also wants to thank and acknowledge Sally Underwood, who returned to us from taking a career break as the Interim Executive Director. We are incredibly grateful to Sally for everything she has done in the past six months.”
For more information please visit: https://australianballet.com.au/about-us/our-people
