San Jose, CA – San Jose Dance Theatre (SJDT) is proud to announce the appointment of Nicole Haskins as its new Artistic Director. A dynamic force in the world of ballet, Haskins brings an inspiring vision, extensive experience, and an innovative approach to her new role, promising to elevate San Jose’s ballet scene to unprecedented heights.
Hailing from Venice Beach, California, Nicole Haskins boasts a remarkable career that spans two decades as a professional dancer with prestigious companies such as Sacramento Ballet, Washington Ballet, and Smuin Contemporary Ballet. Her diverse repertoire includes iconic roles such as Lucy in Dracula, Alice in Alice in Wonderland, and the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, alongside performances in contemporary masterpieces like Trey McIntyre’s Blue Until June and Helen Pickett’s Petal.
Haskins’ artistic prowess extends beyond the stage; she is an accomplished choreographer whose works have been commissioned by renowned institutions including Richmond Ballet, Smuin Contemporary Ballet, and Oregon Ballet Theater. Her accolades include participation in the New York Choreographic Institute and recognition as a winner of the OBT XX Choreographic Competition.
Following her retirement from performing, Haskins embraced leadership roles, including serving as Ballet Idaho’s inaugural Trainee Program Director, where she cultivated the next generation of dancers. Many of her mentees have gone on to secure professional contracts, including with San Jose Dance Theatre itself. Most recently, she co-choreographed Sacramento Ballet’s The Nutcracker, a testament to her innovative spirit and collaborative artistry.
As Artistic Director, Haskins is poised to bring fresh energy and forward-thinking ideas to San Jose Dance Theatre. Her vision prioritizes artistic excellence, inclusivity, and community engagement. Guided by her motto, “Art is Risk Made Visible,” she aims to create a nurturing environment where dancers are encouraged to embrace challenges and achieve their fullest potential.
“I am honored to join San Jose Dance Theatre, an organization with such a rich legacy,” said Haskins. “I look forward to building on this foundation to create transformative experiences for our dancers, audiences, and community. Together, we will celebrate the beauty and power of dance while exploring bold, new possibilities.”
Haskins will oversee all artistic aspects of SJDT, including its acclaimed annual Nutcracker production, the Wizard of Oz Ballet to premier March 2025, participation in The Ballet Alliance Festival, and the design of impactful summer programs. Her appointment signals an exciting new chapter for SJDT as it continues its mission of enriching lives through the art of dance.
