Jacob Ashley Announced as the Director of School of Madison Ballet
Madison, WI - Madison Ballet continues a momentous 40th Anniversary Season with the announcement of Jacob Ashley El as the Director of the School of Madison Ballet. This season is defined as a “turning point” by the organization, marked with larger stages and audiences, more performances, and leadership transitions that include the appointment of Ashley as well as a new Artistic Director, to be announced this spring.
A Chicago native, Ashley began his dance training in 2002 at the Chicago Academy for the Arts. He studied at Columbia College Chicago's modern dance program, later becoming an apprentice for Gus Giordano Dance and Luna Negra Dance Theater and attending Ballet Chicago under the tutelage of Daniel Duel and Patricia Blair. As a guest artist, Ashley has danced with such companies as the West Indian Folk Dance Company, Momenta, Ballet Chicago, Chicago Festival Ballet, Dallas Opera, Houston Grand Opera, Les Ballet Grandiva, Madison Ballet, Lyric Opera of Chicago, Joffrey Ballet of Chicago, and San Diego Opera.
Ashley has danced with Madison Ballet for 15 years and has been a beloved faculty member at the School of Madison Ballet (SMB) since 2018, where his lessons have been instrumental to the development of students ranging from 4 years old to pre-professional. Recently, Ashley was highlighted as a choreographer in Madison Ballet’s first ever dance film production, Lift Every Voice, a project which began in 2021 to help amplify the works of emerging local choreographers of color. The project, which includes professional and SMB student performers, continues this February with Lift Every Voice 2022, where Ashley will premiere another brand-new work with filmmaker John Urban of Big Dreamers United.
“Jacob is a constant source of encouragement and inspiration for his fellow dancers and the students of the School of Madison Ballet. His commitment to the personal growth and artistry of each individual student will no doubt permeate the whole organization and be at the center of his vision for our educational programs,” says Madison Ballet CEO, Jonathan Solari.
"Seeing the students' wonder for ballet, their love and joy to grow in what they’re doing, knowing they’re dedicated and want to learn, that’s what inspires me," says Ashley. “I want to build SMB’s prestige as this city’s school for ballet, and continue our work to provide the best access to ballet in Madison.”
Madison Ballet is a pillar of the Dane County creative community which has dedicated itself to providing "ballet without boundaries", breaking down barriers to the artform throughout all facets of the organization. Madison Ballet gives back to the community, participating in local arts events, providing performance tickets free of charge to area nonprofits, and granting scholarships to SMB students. The vibrant arts company continues their philanthropic mission as they grow, thrive, and celebrate 40 years of inspiring Madison with the magic of ballet.
Learn more about the School of Madison Ballet.
