Alabama Ballet Staff

Alabama ballet

CHRISTOPHER STUART

ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Christopher Stuart, originally from Sandy Hook, CT, was first introduced to the Arts by his grandmother, who frequently took him to see performances of all types of ballet and musical theatre. This was where Christopher first fell in love with the stage. He began his formal training with Steve Sirico, Angela D’valda Sirico, Franco De Vita and Raymond Lukens, and now with a child of his own, he understands why the arts are so important to enriching our community, especially its children.

JENNY MANN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Dr. Jenny Mann, Executive Director, joined the Alabama Ballet in November of 2024. Before joining AB, she served as President and Executive Director of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, Executive Director of Tuscaloosa Symphony, and enjoyed a 15-year career with The University of Alabama as Associate Professor of Bassoon, Chamber Music, and Arts Administration. A passionate educator and administrator, Jenny has over 30 years of experience in teaching and developing education/outreach programs. She specializes in fundraising, organizational capacity building, and collaborative engagement. In addition to her career in leadership, Jenny also published the text, "Teaching Woodwinds: Bassoon" with Mountain Peak Music and three recordings with the renowned Cavell Trio. Jenny holds a BMA from Baylor with a PK-12 Teaching Certification, MM and DMA degrees from The University of Texas at Austin. 

Administrative Staff

Jenny Mann, Executive Director

Chloe Bowen, PR & Marketing Manager

Michele Swader, Office & Box Office Manager

Margaret Wendorf, Finance Manager

Artistic Staff

Christopher Stuart, Artistic Director

Jon Upleger, Rehearsal Director

Alexandra Meister-Upleger, Rehearsal Director

Luiza Boaventura, Teacher & Guest Rehearsal Director

Production Staff

David Page, Production Manager

Wendy Gamble, Costume Director

Joelle Tucker, Company & Production Stage Manager

Liam McElroy, Technical Stage Manager

School Staff

Christopher Stuart, Artistic Director

Natalie Hunt, Director of Operations

Isabella Cowles, Director of Curriculum

Alexandra Meister-Upleger, Day Program Coordinator

Luiza Boaventura, Day Program Teacher

Ruby Moore, After-Hours Administrator

Full Faculty List