A message from
Artistic Director, Joseph Phillips

At age twelve, I vividly recall attending a performance at the Koger Center for the Arts with my teacher Stanislav Issaev, watching Carlos Acosta and Lauren Anderson perform the Don Quixote Pas de Deux.

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That night changed my life.

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Since then, I have been fortunate to have a global career that has taken me around the world. Returning to Columbia, to the community that shaped my journey holds a special place in my heart., and I am honored to lead Columbia Classical Ballet into its next chapter.

I am committed to nurturing the talents of our dancers and creating a company that is a source of pride for Columbia and a vibrant contributor to the international dance community.

My primary mission to bring people together through ballet -  bridging connections and creating opportunities for dancers to shine, just as I’ve done with El Camino Ballet in California.

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This year, we are excited to have Columbia Ballet School as the official school of Columbia Classical Ballet!