LOUISVILLE, KY – After a pivotal chapter of leadership, Louisville Ballet’s CEO, Leslie Smart, will transition from her role as Chief Executive Officer of Louisville Ballet to serve on its Board of Directors and as Co-Chair of the 75th Diamond Anniversary Committee.
Smart stepped into leadership nearly three and a half years ago during a critical moment for Louisville Ballet, guiding the organization to a strong financial footing with renewed momentum.
“Leading Louisville Ballet during this transformative period has been one of the greatest honors of my career,” said Smart. “Together with our board, staff, donors, and community, we have built a strong, stable foundation for the future. I am proud of what we’ve accomplished and confident in the organization’s continued growth and artistic excellence.”
During her tenure, Smart led the efforts to secure more than $18.5 million in philanthropic support, including the recent achievement of $9 million in combined public and private funding – an unprecedented achievement that will strengthen the Ballet’s foundation and position it for sustained success. The company has achieved continued improvement in financial results year-over-year, including record-breaking ticket sales, with 13 sold-out performances this season.
Louisville Ballet served more individuals than ever through performances, community engagement, and The Louisville Ballet School during the 2025-26 season. It was a historic milestone, engaging audiences from 48 states and extending community programming to 174 unique locations in Kentucky and Indiana.
In collaboration with the Board, Smart also led the search that resulted in the appointment of Artistic Director Anthony Krutzkamp. Smart has spearheaded the development of numerous strategic partnerships, including the launch of a groundbreaking collaboration with Bellarmine University to offer an accredited
“Bachelor of Arts in Arts Administration: Dance” degree, specifically designed for pre-professional and professional dancers. This program allows Louisville Ballet’s Studio 1 Company and Company dancers to earn a fully accredited degree while maintaining their training, with a focus on developing the business skills needed for post-stage careers. The program kicks off this fall.
She also launched a new medical collaboration with Norton Healthcare and an adaptive dance program for patients with movement disorders at Norton Neuroscience Institute (NNI). This is in partnership with Bellarmine University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program, as part of research that the students will conduct on the impact of dance therapy on overall health and well-being.
Additional highlights of Smart’s tenure include Light / The Holocaust and Humanity Project, a production commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Holocaust in honor of Minx Auerbach.
The production has also led to a forthcoming documentary that will air on KET this year, along with a study guide to accompany Kentucky’s state-mandated Holocaust education programming that will reach generations of middle and high school students.
Smart’s connection to the Ballet spans decades, including her time as a dancer, board member, and co-chair of both the 50th and 65th anniversary galas. Her continued service on the Board and leadership of the upcoming 75th anniversary celebration will bring an important level of continuity to the organization’s next chapter.
Louisville Ballet is fortunate to have a strong senior leadership team that is well-positioned to guide the organization into its next phase of growth, ensuring long-term sustainability, operational stability, and continued artistic excellence.
Incoming Board President Pamela Thompson emphasized the strength of the organization’s current position and optimism regarding the path forward. “Leslie’s leadership has been extraordinary; she has guided Louisville Ballet through a very challenging period and has positioned the organization to move forward with great momentum,” said Thompson. “We are grateful for her continued involvement and are confident in the strength of the company’s leadership, fiscal position, and long-term future.”
Thompson also expressed deep gratitude to the community of supporters, which includes generous donors, the Commonwealth of Kentucky, the City of Louisville, and dedicated Board and staff leaders whose collective efforts have made this progress possible.
“We are all deeply grateful for the trust of Louisville Ballet’s donors, whose belief in this organization has made our progress possible,” said Thompson. “Their support not only strengthens this organization, but also affirms the vital role that the arts play in our community.”
A national search for a new Executive Director will commence immediately. In the interim, the Board of Directors will work closely with the senior leadership team to oversee Ballet operations and ensure continuity throughout the transition.
For more information, please contact Arricka Dunsford at adunsford@louisvilleballet.org or at 502-376-9947.
