Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater, America’s premier institution dedicated to the preservation, presentation, and advancement of Spanish dance, music, and culture, announces the launch of its search for a new full-time Artistic Director.
This moment marks a significant milestone in the company’s nearly five-decade legacy of artistic excellence, cultural education, and community engagement. Founded in 1975 by the late Dame Libby Komaiko, Ensemble Español has flourished under the visionary leadership of Dame Libby, Irma Suárez Ruiz, and Jorge Pérez, and remains in partnership and in residence at Northeastern Illinois University—the only university in the United States to house a professional Spanish dance company.
Ruiz is assuming the newly created position of Dame Libby Komaiko Legacy Artistic Director effective immediately, ensuring the continuation of the company’s artistic traditions and mentorship while remaining an integral part of Ensemble Español’s future. She will temporarily continue in both roles as the Ensemble rolls out plans to fill the full-time Artistic Director position. She will be assisted by Company Dancer/Rehearsal Director José Tores, who assumes the role of Associated Artistic Director as of July 1. Jorge Pérez, continues as Ensemble Español Executive Director.
In the search for the new Artistic Director, the company is seeking a bold and inspiring leader to guide Ensemble Español into its next era—honoring its deep roots while embracing new visions for flamenco, Spanish classical, folkloric, and contemporary dance forms. Ensemble Español will be conducting this search in collaboration with international organizations drawing on our shared commitment to excellence and cultural authenticity to identify a leader who embodies both tradition and innovation in Spanish dance.
The incoming Artistic Director will continue to shape Ensemble into the next 50 years by providing artistic vision while preserving the rich cultural heritage of Spanish dance. This role will encompass the curation and choreography of both traditional and contemporary works within the Spanish dance spectrum—including flamenco, classical Spanish dance, escuela bolera, and regional folk traditions.
“This is more than a position—it is an opportunity to shape a living legacy,” said Executive Director Jorge Pérez. “The next Artistic Director will join us at an exciting time of strategic growth and renewed commitment to our roots in Spanish dance and cultural exchange.”
Key responsibilities include:
● Developing and implementing the company’s artistic programming;
● Leading rehearsals and coaching dancers to ensure technical excellence and
stylistic authenticity;
● Collaborating with musicians, designers, and international guest artists;
● Recruiting and mentoring dancers with a passion for Spanish dance traditions;
● Managing and facilitating bookings and touring of the company and works to be presented;
● Engaging in fundraising, cultural representation, and strategic planning with staff and
board members;
● Coordinating the American Spanish Dance and Music Festival.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate extensive professional experience in Spanish dance, a proven track record as a choreographer and leader, and a deep passion for elevating the art form. Administrative skills and fundraising experience are highly valued.
This search is part of Ensemble Español’s long-standing succession plan, a tradition initiated by Dame Libby herself, who prioritized leadership cultivation as essential to the company’s future. From the company’s first apprentice dancers in the 1970s to its current roster of 40 professional artists and international collaborators, Ensemble Español continues to be a trailblazer in dance education and cultural ambassadorship.
The Board of Directors is currently forming a search committee that will begin reviewing applications starting September 15, 2025. All applications and questions regarding the position should be directed to Kim Grigsby, Managing Director: Kim@eesdt.org.
About Ensemble Español
Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater is an internationally recognized performing arts institution in residence at Northeastern Illinois University. Its mission is to preserve, present, and promote the flamenco, folkloric, classical, and contemporary dance and music traditions of Spain. From U.S. presidential commendations to Spain’s highest cultural honors, the Ensemble has captivated audiences across the globe for nearly 50 years. For
more information visit ensembleespanol.org.