GABLESTAGE ANNOUNCES JUAN JOSÉ ESCALANTE AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

GableStage, one of South Florida’s longest-running and most acclaimed theatre companies, is proud to announce the appointment of Juan José Escalante as its new Executive Director. Escalante, who most recently served as Executive Director of Miami City Ballet, will join Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport, the Board of Trustees, and staff to continue the impressive growth of GableStage. 

Escalante brings more than 30 years of experience in arts management to GableStage, with a career distinguished by financial leadership, institutional growth and deep roots in the South Florida arts community. Prior to his tenure at Miami City Ballet, he served as Executive Director of the National Dance Institute, the celebrated arts education organization founded by Jacques d’Amboise that has impacted more than two million children through inclusive dance and music programs. Before that, he led the José Limón Dance Foundation as Executive Director for nine years, where he guided the organization’s fiscal health, cultivated its Board of Directors, and supported its artistic vision. Throughout his career, Escalante has been recognized for his ability to forge lasting relationships with donors, civic leaders, and community partners, building the coalitions of support that allow arts organizations to thrive. His collaborative approach to stakeholder engagement has time and again translated into expanded programming, stronger boards, and deeper audience loyalty. 

“Juan José brings an extraordinary combination of executive experience, financial acumen, and genuine love for this community,” said GableStage Board Chair Roz Stuzin. “He understands what it takes to build a great arts institution, and he has done it time and again throughout his remarkable career. We are thrilled to welcome him to GableStage at such an exciting moment in our history, and we are confident that his partnership with Bari, our staff, and the Board will propel this organization to extraordinary new heights.” 

“Juan José brings the kind of strategic vision and deep community connection that will help us grow in ways that are both bold and sustainable,” said Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport. “Our artists, our audiences, and our mission will all benefit enormously from his leadership. I couldn’t be more excited for what we are going to accomplish together.” 

“I am honored to join GableStage at such an exciting moment in its history,’’ said Escalante. “GableStage has built an extraordinary reputation for artistic excellence, fearless storytelling, and deep engagement with the South Florida community. I look forward to partnering with Bari Newport, the Board of Trustees, staff, artists and supports to build on that momentum, strengthen the organization for the future and continue creating transformative theatrical experiences that inspire audiences and enrich our great community.’’

This search was completed in partnership with Philip DeBoer and DHR Global. 

Founded in 1979 as the Florida Shakespeare Theatre, GableStage is one of South Florida’s most award-winning and venerable theatre companies. Now in its 27th Season at the historic Biltmore Hotel — home to GableStage at the Wolfson Family Theatre — the company provides South Florida audiences with theatrical works of artistic excellence that confront today’s issues and ideas. The recipient of more than 71 Carbonell Awards and over 200 nominations, GableStage has welcomed more than 650,000 patrons, employed more than 2,000 artists, and contributed upwards of $10 million to the local economy. Since the arrival of Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport in 2021, the company has seen record-breaking attendance, expanded community programming, and a growing national reputation. For more information, visit gablestage.org.