Classical Ballet Theatre Welcomes Back Cynthia Donavin as Artistic Director!

Classical Ballet Theatre (CBT) is excited to announce that Executive Director Cynthia Donavin, founder of CBT over 25 years ago, is returning this summer as Artistic Director! After spending the past few years earning her Master of Arts in Arts Management, undergoing Body Arts and Science International Pilates certification, and mentoring teachers and others interested in arts management, Ms. Donavin is returning to CBT to enhance its mission, vision, and values.

Explains Ms. Donavin, “I founded CBT because I wanted to bring what I thought were the best parts of the dance world to Northern Virginia. The wisdom and unique points of view taught to me by my mentors, Maggie Black and Marjorie Mussman, profoundly changed my life, as an artist and as a human being. I look forward to being in the classroom once again with my students, and our brilliant faculty, and to returning full circle to artistic direction once again.”

CBT’s students, however, are the fortunate ones. Ms. Donavin achieved a very successful performing career with Joffrey Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, Dayton Ballet, and other nationally recognized companies. Having also enjoyed a thirty-year teaching career, she is widely known as one of the best instructors in the mid-Atlantic region.

“I love Ms. Donavin. I always try my very best in her classes,” shared a young CBT student.

It’s true; Ms. Donavin has a special gift for bringing out the best in each of her students, many of whom have pursued dance with universities and professional companies all over the world.

“I owe much of my success today as a dancer, dance teacher, and young woman to the instruction, guidance, and support that Cynthia gave me through my years at Classical Ballet Academy and beyond,” explained CBT alumna and former Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre company member Shanna Gayer. “Cynthia encourages all her students to work hard and do their best both inside the dance studio and out. Good work ethic and the pleasure of trying my best is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life. Cynthia sees the budding talent in every dancer that walks through the door of the studio and makes it her goal to help each student tap into their potential, even if it requires a little push outside of their comfort zone! She teaches more than ballet technique by emphasizing the values of respect, compassion, kindness, and humility.... For me, she has had a profound and lasting impact, for which I will be forever grateful.”