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Dave Hurlbert
Executive Director at Marigny Opera House
Professional Background
Dave Hurlbert is an accomplished musician, composer, and arts executive celebrated for his significant contributions to the performing arts community in New Orleans. As the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Marigny Opera House, a cultural gem located in the heart of the city, Dave has been instrumental in producing a diverse range of performances including opera, classical music, contemporary ballet, modern dance, performance art, and puppetry since the establishment of the venue. His visionary leadership has not only revitalized the local arts scene but has also garnered a loyal audience hungry for rich, artistic experiences.
In 2014, he further expanded his commitment to the arts by co-founding the Marigny Opera Ballet, which was originally known as the Marigny Opera House Dance Company. As a Co-Director of the ballet, he has played a pivotal role in fostering talent and creating a platform for artists to showcase their work. His diverse background in music and performance arts informs his direction of these productions, marrying artistic excellence with community engagement.
An integral figure in the world of ballet, Dave previously held a prestigious position as the Principal Pianist for the San Francisco Ballet. In this role, he collaborated closely with various notable choreographers, such as Michael Smuin and Lew Christensen, enhancing performances with his exceptional piano skills. His experience and expertise were honed through rigorous training and direct mentorship from legendary figures in the ballet world, including Alexandra Danilova and Patricia Wilde, solidifying his credentials as a conductor and performer.
In the 1990s, Dave co-founded Goat Hall Productions in San Francisco, where he served as Music Director, showcasing an array of operatic and musical theatre works, including productions such as “Les Mammelles des Tiresias,” “The Medium,” “Amahl and the Night Visitors,” “The Old Maid and the Thief,” and “A Little Night Music.” His commitment to music education, the revitalization of opera and dance, and the promotion of emerging artists defines his storied career.
Education and Achievements
Dave Hurlbert is a proud alumnus of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where he studied Bachelor of Music with a focus on Music Theory and Composition and Piano Performance. His academic background laid a strong foundation for his multifaceted career in the arts, enriching his abilities as both a pianist and a composer.
In addition to his artistic endeavors, Dave’s expertise extends to arts organization management and branding strategies. He has served as a Naming and Branding Consultant and President of Dave Hurlbert Inc., where his innovative approaches have been pivotal in establishing impactful identities for various organizations. Furthermore, his strategic foresight is reflected through his roles as Director of Verbal Communications and Senior Consultant at Landor Associates and Director of Corporate Identity at Addison Design Consultants.
Throughout his career, Dave has maintained a strong commitment to community engagement and support of the arts. He is an associate Board Member of the esteemed Paul Taylor Dance Company and a founding member of the New Orleans Dance Alliance. His contributions have played a crucial role in boosting the local dance community, establishing sustainable practices and fostering new initiatives.
Dave has also previously served as the head of the dance nominating committee for the Foundation for Entertainment Development and Education’s “Tribute to the Classical Arts Awards,” actively recognizing and celebrating excellence in the field of performing arts.
Community Engagement
Dave's profound impact on the arts extends beyond his formal roles; he actively participates in various capacities to uplift and inspire future generations of artists. His work at the Marigny Opera House not only contributes to the local cultural landscape but also reflects Dave's belief in the transformative power of the arts.
Dave continues to advocate for artistic expression and collaboration among artists, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the New Orleans community. His innovative approach to presenting classical works alongside modern performances showcases his commitment to cultivating an environment where diverse artistic voices can flourish.
Achievements
- Co-founder and Executive Director of Marigny Opera House in New Orleans.
- Co-founder of the Marigny Opera Ballet, fostering local talent and performances.
- Former Principal Pianist for the San Francisco Ballet, collaborating with notable choreographers.
- Co-founder of Goat Hall Productions, showcasing an extensive range of opera and theatre works in San Francisco.
- Board involvement with the Paul Taylor Dance Company and the New Orleans Dance Alliance, promoting community arts initiatives.
- Former head of the dance nominating committee for the Tribute to the Classical Arts Awards.
- Successfully directed and produced a variety of performances ranging from modern dance to puppetry at Marigny Opera House.
Location
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