John Ottmann has been implementing a new vision for Quinte Ballet School of Canada (QBSC) since his appointment as artistic director on August 24th, 2009. He began by bringing in dancers, choreographers and teachers from New York, Montréal, Toronto, Texas and Italy for the 2009 Professional Intensive Program, four weeks of summer training that includes assessment for full-time studies in September. “My intention from the start was to bring an energy and vision that would permeate the school and be felt by the community near and far,” commented Ottmann. For the 2010/11 season he plans to implement a post-graduate program, as well as a new artist-in-residence program. QBSC Co-Chair Judith Atkinson commented in a press release that, “It’s exciting to see the growth and excitement surrounding John’s appointment at the school … Mr. Ottmann has been receiving support from far and wide as momentum builds for the future of QBSC.” Ottmann has had an extensive career as a performer, teacher, choreographer and mentor. Since training at Canada’s National Ballet School and L’Ecole supérieure de danse du Québec, he has performed with The National Ballet of Canada, Ballet BC, Danstabat, Holy Body Tattoo, Mascall Dance and formed the dance collective Quorum.
Tagged: Arts Administration, Ballet, Training, Uncategorized, ON
