In this episode, Jared sits down with Cervilio  Amador, Artistic Director of Cincinnati Ballet, to explore what it means to lead one of the nation’s most respected ballet companies. Born and trained in Cuba, Cervilio began his professional journey with the National Ballet of Cuba before joining Cincinnati Ballet, where he quickly rose to become one of the youngest principal dancers in the company’s history.

Now, after a remarkable 16-year stage career and a powerful transition into leadership, Cervilio shares candid insights about balancing artistry and administration, building a healthy company culture, and supporting the next generation of dancers through Cincinnati Ballet’s training pipeline. He discusses what he looks for in auditions, how he manages multiple constituencies from dancers to donors, and the mindset that sustained him throughout his performing career.

From defecting from Cuba to directing in Cincinnati, Cervilio’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and purpose-driven leadership, a must-listen for anyone curious about what it truly takes to guide a forward-looking ballet company.

Cincinnati Ballet company site:

www.cincinnatiballet.org

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