Founding Artistic Director – Robert Watkins
Robert Watkins began his ballet career as one of the founders of The Richmond Ballet in 1957. Appointed Artistic Director in 1962, he was instrumental in establishing a classical repertory for that company. He succeeded in bringing dancers of international stature to Richmond as guest artists. In 1976, he accepted the invitation to become Artistic Director of The Concert Ballet of Virginia, where he built an impressive repertory of historic, classic, contemporary and experimental dance.
Designer & Technical Director – deVeaux Riddick
deVeaux Riddick is a native of Charleston, SC with a background in design and acting at the Footlight Players and the historic Dock Street Theatre. In Richmond, he has designed and acted in most of the major theatres of the city and was one of the founders of The Richmond Ballet. He served as Designer and Technician for that company from 1957 to 1976. Since then, he has been Designer and Technical Director for The Concert Ballet of Virginia.
Artistic Director – Scott Boyer
Scott Boyer joined The Richmond Ballet in 1972, rising to principal dancer and Associate Director by 1976. That same year he participated in the creation of The Concert Ballet of Virginia. As principal dancer for this “new” venture he has danced principal roles in the major full-length classics, The Nutcracker, Swan Lake, Giselle and Sleeping Beauty. As Artistic Director, he is the driving force for continuing the artistic opportunities as provided by The Concert Ballet for over 40 years. In addition, he designs scenery and costumes and has choreographed for both the junior and senior performing companies.
Founding Executive Director – Eleanor Rennie
A long-time dancer herself, Mrs. Rennie became involved in The Richmond Ballet when her daughter performed as principal in that company. In 1976, she was instrumental in founding The Concert Ballet of Virginia and was the guiding figure behind the workings of the company. Her executive expertise resulted in the facile running of perhaps the state’s most frequently performing dance organization.