The creator of Ballet Arizona's iconic 'Nutcracker' is leaving. Here's what we know

Ib Andersen, the longtime artistic director of Ballet Arizona, is leaving.

Though not for a while.

The ballet’s board of directors announced Wednesday afternoon that Andersen, who became artistic director in 2000, will depart the organization on June 30, 2024. The board named Andersen Artistic Director Emeritus.

“My work will continue,” Andersen said in a statement. “There are still stories I look forward to telling and I will be exploring new opportunities to showcase my performances. I want to thank the amazing dancers and loyal patrons that I’ve gotten to know at Ballet Arizona over the past two decades. Their support and friendships have been inspiring.”

More: Ballet Arizona's successful Juan Gabriel production returns to Phoenix

Anderson was a protégée of George Balanchine

Andersen began his career as a dancer in Copenhagen, Denmark. He was one of the last protégées of George Balanchine, for whom he danced with the New York City Ballet.

In Arizona, Andersen was especially known for his take on "The Nutcracker," which was named one of the three best in the country.

“Anyone who appreciates dance knows it is about building greatness from greatness and strength upon strength,” Jami Kozemczak, executive director of Ballet Arizona, said in the statement.

“It is about renewal and rebirth. This transition year is a time to celebrate all that Ib has brought to Ballet Arizona while we plan for our continued success in the future.”

A national search firm will look for a successor, the statement said.

More: Ballet Arizona celebrates iconic Mexican singer Juan Gabriel with new production

Reach Goodykoontz at bill.goodykoontz@arizonarepublic.com. Follow him on Facebook @GoodyOnFilm and on Twitter @goodyk. Subscribe to the weekly movies newsletter.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ballet Arizona's artistic director is leaving after 24 years