Ben Stevenson

Ben Stevenson joined the London Festival Ballet in 1968, where he soon became recognized for his powerful performances and ability to bring dramatic roles to life. During his time with the company, he performed in many classical and contemporary works, making a significant impact on the company’s performance style and repertoire.

In 1976, Ben Stevenson was appointed Artistic Director of the Houston Ballet, a position he held for 27 years. Under his direction, the Houston Ballet grew from a regional troupe to an internationally acclaimed company. Stevenson's choreography and artistic vision were key to the company's success and expansion during his tenure.

In 1989, Ben Stevenson premiered his production of 'Swan Lake' for Houston Ballet. This version was noted for its beautiful staging and Stevenson’s imaginative reworking of traditional choreography. It became one of the signature productions of the company, showcasing both the dancers and Stevenson's exceptional creativity.

Ben Stevenson was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Queen Elizabeth II in recognition of his services to ballet. The honor signified international recognition for Stevenson's contributions to the art form both in the UK and abroad, particularly for his work in transforming the Houston Ballet.

After 27 years as the artistic director, Ben Stevenson retired from the Houston Ballet on June 30, 2003. His retirement marked the end of an era that saw the Houston Ballet become one of the leading ballet companies in the United States. Stevenson left a legacy of choreographic excellence and educational initiatives that continue to influence the company.

Immediately following his retirement from the Houston Ballet, Ben Stevenson took on the role of Artistic Director at the Texas Ballet Theater. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in growing the company's reputation and broadening its repertoire to include a blend of classical and contemporary works.

Ben Stevenson marked his 10th anniversary as the Artistic Director of the Texas Ballet Theater. This milestone celebrates a decade of extraordinary artistic growth and achievement under his visionary leadership. Stevenson's commitment to excellence has helped elevate the company on both national and international stages.

In 2017, Ben Stevenson brought his acclaimed version of 'Giselle' to the Texas Ballet Theater. Known for its emotional depth and precise dance techniques, Stevenson's 'Giselle' is a testament to his skillful storytelling and ability to breathe new life into classic ballets. The revival received widespread acclaim from audiences and critics alike.

On June 25, 2019, Ben Stevenson received the prestigious Dance Magazine Award, recognizing his lifetime of contributions to the field of dance. The award highlights Stevenson's exceptional achievements in choreography, his influence in shaping ballet companies, and his dedication to training and fostering the next generation of dancers.

In April 2023, Ben Stevenson premiered a new choreographic work with the Texas Ballet Theater, showcasing his continued creativity and influence in the ballet world. The new piece highlighted the talents of the company’s dancers and illustrated Stevenson's enduring passion for pushing the boundaries of classical ballet while integrating contemporary elements.