New talent arrives at Springfield Ballet

Filling a position left vacant for about a year, Springfield Ballet recently announced it has hired a new associate artistic director, Brian Norris. He was to begin work Aug. 1 or 2, said Ashley Walden, executive director of the ballet.

“It took us a year to find the right fit,” Walden told the News-Leader. “We just weren’t going to settle for someone.”

Walden said Norris, who grew up in Oregon, was interested in moving to the Midwest. His 18-year career includes an extensive list of credentials, according to a news release.

Norris has performed in Portland, Oregon; Washington, D.C.; Vienna; Toronto; on “Live! with Regis and Kathie Lee” in New York; and in London. His teaching credits range from east and west coast schools in the United States to Tokyo; Taipei; Singapore; and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Walden characterized Springfield Ballet as being in good shape right now. It is increasing the numbers of ballet students, and ballet productions have sold out for five consecutive years.

She is optimistic about fundraising events planned over the next 18 months.

“We just continue to grow and see the community wrap their arms around us,” Walden said.

Submit Business News suggestions to Webeditor@news-leader.com, or call Brynn E. White at 417-836-1112 with questions.