Artistic Director Wen Wei Wang to Bid Ballet Edmonton Farewell
February 29, 2024
As we move toward the end of the 2023/24 season, we want to share the news with you that our beloved Artistic Director Wen Wei Wang will step down from his role with us in May at the close of the 2023/24 season. His departure marks a remarkable six-year term, transforming the company and establishing Ballet Edmonton as a national presence on the Canadian contemporary ballet and dance scene. We are so proud of the work he has done here and so incredibly grateful for the strong position he leaves us in. Wen Wei has devoted himself to this organization and we appreciate his dedication to developing our company artists, creating an outstanding canon of repertoire, and establishing critical artistic relationships across this country. Wen Wei will return to his beautiful home in Vancouver, BC, and continue his work with his own company, Wen Wei Dance.
We are very pleased to welcome incoming Artistic Director Kirsten Wicklund, who will step into her new role in August 2024. Currently based in Belgium, Kirsten Wicklund was born in British Columbia and has had an impressive career as a dancer while also establishing herself as part of a new generation of exciting voices in contemporary dance creation. She brings a broad international artistic network and a reputation for artistic excellence with her. We are confident she possesses all the qualities required to lead the company forward creatively and strategically and help build on the incredible growth established under the guidance and wisdom of Wen Wei. You can read more about Kirsten Wicklund here and view a trailer of the stunning work she created for our February show.
“I am honoured to be entrusted with the remarkable opportunity to guide Ballet Edmonton towards a future marked by growth and commitment to artistic innovation. Reflecting on Wen Wei Wang’s invaluable contributions to Ballet Edmonton, I hope to build upon his vision by fostering a culture of dance excellence, exploration, and dedication and his commitment to amplifying diverse voices across Canada and internationally. I look forward to getting to know the Alberta arts community and the people who are integral to its thriving ecosystem!” – Kirsten Wicklund
“Kirsten Wicklund will be a great addition to this company. With her talent and knowledge of contemporary ballet, she will bring Ballet Edmonton to the next level artistically. I would like to thank all the artists, creators and extraordinary dancers for all you have contributed; I could not have achieved all that we did without you – I’m so proud of Ballet Edmonton.” – Wen Wei Wang
Kirsten Wicklund’s first season with Ballet Edmonton as Artistic Director will be 2024/25 and will signal the next step in our inspired evolution. We cannot wait for you all to get to know her!
