Dear friend of Pennsylvania Ballet,

I am reaching out to the many friends and supporters of Pennsylvania Ballet to inform you that after 17 years as executive director of this remarkable institution, I have decided to step down from my post effective June 27. I have accepted the position of Executive Director at Miami City Ballet and will commence work there on the 30th of June.

In order to ensure that there is a smooth transition until my successor is appointed by the Board of Trustees, the Board has engaged the services of David Gray as Interim Executive Director. A well-known consultant to arts organizations in need of transitional management, Mr. Gray will work with me, while I am here, to learn the unique attributes of Pennsylvania Ballet and its operations which will ensure that the organization continues to operate smoothly and effectively. 

 

I will confess that the decision to leave Pennsylvania Ballet was most difficult. I love this Company and I love Philadelphia. I am proud of the accomplishments I have played a role in achieving along with the tremendous support of the Board, dancers, staff, orchestra, production crew, and most importantly, Roy Kaiser. My partnership with Roy was one of the most fulfilling aspects of working here. Because we shared the same goals for Pennsylvania Ballet, we found a way to work together and develop strategies to turn those goals into reality. At the end of the day, the quality of work on stage is what this business is all about, and I would be hard-pressed to find anyone who would not agree that the Company has been transformed into one of the nation’s finest with an interesting and diverse repertoire. That requires the support of an entire organization, and I am fortunate and honored to have been part of it for so many years.

Of course, none of this would have been possible without the loyalty and generosity of our subscribers, donors, and ticket buyers. Your support of this special organization has meant a great deal to me, and for that I am grateful. As the 50th Anniversary Season comes to an end, I am confident that Pennsylvania Ballet will enjoy another 50 years of superb artistry. A new executive director will come in with new ideas and new approaches that I expect the community will evaluate and hopefully support. 

I plan to come back to Philadelphia often and when I do, I hope I will see many of you at performances. Until then, thank you for giving me this incredible opportunity and for your friendship these past 17 years. Pennsylvania Ballet will always have a special place in my heart.

With deep affection,

 

Michael Scolamiero