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Ballet CEO Smart Steps Down, Secures Future
30 Apr
Summary
- CEO Leslie Smart is transitioning roles after stabilizing Louisville Ballet.
- The ballet secured $9 million in new funding for infrastructure and tours.
- Smart led efforts to secure over $18.5 million in financial support.
Louisville Ballet's CEO, Leslie Smart, is transitioning from her leadership role after a successful three-and-a-half-year tenure. She will now serve as co-chair of the Louisville Ballet's 75th Diamond Anniversary Committee and a member of its board of directors. Smart's departure as CEO is effective May 29, 2026.
Smart took the helm in February 2023 amidst financial challenges. Through aggressive cost-cutting and fundraising, she led the ballet's stabilization. During her time, over $18.5 million in financial support was secured, leading to record ticket sales and increased patronage. The ballet also experienced significant community engagement across Kentucky and Indiana.
Just last week, the ballet announced a historic $9 million investment. This funding is earmarked for physical infrastructure improvements, fostering partnerships with other arts organizations, and enabling statewide tours. Smart's strategic initiatives also include collaborations with Bellarmine University for dance degrees and Norton Healthcare for medical partnerships.
