New Jersey Ballet Company & School Announces New Chairman of the Board
Scott Becchi Named Chairman of New Jersey Ballet’s Board of Directors
New Jersey – September 4, 2024 – New Jersey Ballet Company and New Jersey Ballet School are pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Becchi as the new Chairman of the Board, succeeding Scott Tross, Esq., who has served as Board Chair for 13 years. The transition marks a new chapter for New Jersey Ballet as it continues its mission to deliver world-class performances and nurture the next generation of dancers.
Scott Becchi expressed his enthusiasm for the role stating, “I am honored to be given the opportunity to lead the New Jersey Ballet Board of Directors as we undertake to transform the ballet to align with Maria Kowroski's vision to bring groundbreaking performances, and world-class dancers, directly into the heart of our local community and across the state.”
He continued, “I want to personally thank Scott for his 13 years of service as Board Chair, and his unwavering support for the ballet. We are very fortunate that Scott will remain an active member of the New Jersey Ballet community by staying on the Board and helping to drive our development activities.”
Scott Tross reflected on his tenure and expressed his confidence in the future leadership, saying, “I am proud of all that New Jersey Ballet has accomplished during my tenure, and believe that the organization is poised to reach new heights in the years to come. I have every confidence that Scott Becchi will do a terrific job as my successor, and intend to do everything in my power to help New Jersey Ballet thrive under his leadership.”
Artistic Director Maria Kowroski also welcomed Scott Becchi with enthusiasm, stating, “As we continue to look toward New Jersey Ballet's bright future, I am thrilled to welcome Scott Becchi as our new Chairman of the Board. I have no doubt his dynamic leadership will move the Board's efforts forward while aligning with my vision for the company.”
New Jersey Ballet's Executive Director, David Tamaki added, "We are grateful for the leadership and commitment Scott Tross has provided over his tenure as Board Chair. New Jersey Ballet is positioned for continued growth and we look forward to Scott Becchi leading the Board through this new phase of expansion."
Looking ahead, New Jersey Ballet Company’s 2024/2025 Season promises exciting programming, which will be performed across six counties: Morris, Bergen, Union, Essex, Middlesex, and Monmouth. Additionally, New Jersey Ballet School will soon begin accepting registrations for its 2024/2025 Season. Please visit the Company’s (www.njballet.org) and School's (www.njschoolofballet.com) websites for updates. If you are interested in learning about volunteer and board service opportunities, please email volunteer@njballet.org.
A New Era with Maria Kowroski
Ms. Kowroski a former principal dancer with New York City Ballet, has brought a fresh perspective and dynamic leadership to New Jersey Ballet. Her tenure has been marked by exciting developments including the expansion of the Company’s repertory with works by George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, Peter Martins, Justin Peck, Christopher Wheeldon and Gustavo Ramíerez Sansano. Ms. Kowroski also commissioned new works for the Company by former New York City Ballet principal dancer Harrison Ball, with costumes designed by world renowned fashion designer Zac Posen and former New York City Ballet principal dancer and Resident Choreographer for the Paul Taylor Dance Company, Lauren Lovette.
Under Ms. Kowroski’s visionary leadership, New Jersey Ballet is thriving, blending tradition with Innovation to ensure its place as a vibrant and forward-thinking cultural institution. The Ballet continues to grow and evolve, remaining dedicated to its mission of bringing exceptional dance to the community while nurturing the next generation of dancers.
About New Jersey Ballet
Founded in 1958 by Carolyn Clark, New Jersey Ballet has grown into one of the most esteemed dance companies in the region. For over six decades, the Ballet has brought the joy and artistry of dance to diverse audiences across New Jersey. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in performance and education, New Jersey Ballet has developed a rich repertoire that spans classical ballets, contemporary works and innovative new productions.
Established alongside the Company, New Jersey Ballet School has been a nurturing ground for young talent. The School provides rigorous training and offers comprehensive dance education to students of all ages and levels. Many of the School’s alumni have gone on to successful professional careers in dance, reflecting the high standard of instruction and dedication to fostering artistic growth. SPONSORS New Jersey Ballet is grateful for the generous support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the State of New Jersey, The Shubert Foundation, The Kosloski Family Foundation, EJ Grassmann Trust, Union Foundation, The Achelis & Bodman Foundation, The Hyde & Watson Foundation, The John & Barbara Vogelstein Foundation, PNC Foundation, Columbia Bank Foundation, The George A. Ohl, Jr. Trust, The Wallerstein Foundation and the numerous individuals and corporations who support New Jersey Ballet's mission.