Breaking Bread: A Conversation hosted by Chris Shepherd with Julie Kent

Julie Kent became Artistic Director of Houston Ballet in July 2023, joining Stanton Welch AM in leading America’s fourth-largest classical ballet company. She was the longest-serving ballerina in American Ballet Theatre’s 84-year history, performing a vast repertoire of classical and contemporary works during a distinguished 30-year career. She also appeared as an international guest artist with companies including New York City Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, Teatro alla Scala, Australian Ballet, and Houston Ballet.

Julie is the recipient of the Prix de Lausanne, Erik Bruhn Prize, and the Prix Benois de la Danse, becoming the first American dancer to receive the honor. Following her performing career, she served as Artistic Director of ABT’s Summer Intensive and later led The Washington Ballet, where she expanded the company’s repertoire and commissioned more than 26 world premieres before joining Houston Ballet.

ABOUT THE BREAKING BREAD SERIES 

Back when Chris Shepherd was running restaurants, he would place uncut loaves of bread on the table for guests to tear apart together, a way to get people talking. He’s always believed the table is one of the last places where community happens naturally. That idea is the heartbeat of this series.