Birmingham, Alabama – [November 11th, 2024] – Alabama Ballet is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jenny Mann as its new Executive Director. Mann, a seasoned arts executive and musician, brings a wealth of experience and a visionary leadership style to Alabama Ballet, following a distinguished career in arts administration and music performance.
Mann joins Alabama Ballet from her recent role as President and Executive Director of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra (MSO), where she led the organization to deepen its community engagement through new outreach events and collaborations with local artists, further strengthening its connection to audiences across Mississippi.
Previously, Mann served as Executive Director of the Tuscaloosa Symphony from 2014-2021. During her tenure, she spearheaded the development of new educational initiatives, including a pioneering partnership with the Alabama Artistic Literacy Consortium, bringing arts integration programs to educators in the region. She also expanded the orchestra’s profile with groundbreaking projects such as the world premiere of “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men,” an opera collaboration broadcast statewide on Alabama Public Television.
As a respected academic, Mann served as Associate Professor of Bassoon and Music Management at The University of Alabama, where she played a key role in shaping the next generation of arts leaders. A published author and seasoned performer, Mann recorded three acclaimed albums with the Cavell Trio and authored “Teaching Woodwinds: Bassoon,” a textbook adopted by institutions nationwide.
Mann holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Baylor University, a Master of Music from the University of Texas at Austin and completed her Doctor of Musical Arts degree at the University of Texas. She also carries the Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) designation, underscoring her commitment to strategic and sustainable growth within nonprofit arts organizations.
“I am excited to welcome Jenny Mann as our new Executive Director,” says Christopher Stuart, Artistic Director. “Her passion and dedication to the arts make her the perfect addition to our team. I look forward to working side by side with her to continue elevating the Alabama Ballet and inspiring our community together.”
In her role as Executive Director at Alabama Ballet, Mann will work closely with the Artistic Director, Board of Directors, and staff to ensure the continued success and growth of Alabama Ballet. Her responsibilities include overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations, implementing strategic initiatives, fostering community partnerships, and managing Alabama Ballet’s financial and fundraising efforts. She will also focus on broadening access to the ballet and increasing community engagement, aligning with Alabama Ballet’s mission to make the art of dance accessible to all Alabamians.
“I am excited to join the team at the Alabama Ballet,” says Mann. “I’ve been impressed by the depth of artistry in the organization and their commitment to serving not only the Birmingham community but also the entire state. We all share a deep love of the arts and I can’t wait to see what we will build together.”
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About Alabama Ballet
The Alabama Ballet is the state’s premiere professional ballet company. The company has achieved national prominence as one of only eight ballet companies in the world permitted by the Balanchine Trust to perform Balanchine’s The Nutcracker®. The Alabama Ballet promotes the development of classical and contemporary ballet through high quality performances, dance education and community outreach. Education and outreach activities include CityDance, which provides 16 weeks of dance training for youth from the city of Birmingham and Jefferson County. The Alabama Ballet is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
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