CUBAN ROOTS: Aydmara Cabrera, shown here in “Swan Lake,” hopes to bring her experience at National Ballet of Cuba into the curriculum of Princeton Ballet School.

Former National Ballet of Cuba principal dancer Aydmara Cabrera has been named school director of Princeton Ballet School (PBS), the official school of American Repertory Ballet (ARB).

According to Julie Diana Hench, executive director of American Repertory Ballet and Princeton Ballet School, “Ms. Cabrera is already a beloved teacher and ballet master at PBS, and will be an incredible member of the leadership team. She has impressive professional experience and an inspiring vision for the School that will provide students even greater opportunities. Ms. Cabrera’s passion for the art form is infectious and we are thrilled to have her lead Princeton Ballet School into an exciting new era.”

Born in Cuba, Cabrera began her ballet studies at the age of 9 at the National Ballet School in Havana and became a principal dancer at the National Ballet of Cuba, under the direction of Alicia Alonso.  She also performed with Ballet Hispanico of New York. In the course of her career, Cabrera was partnered by José Manuel Carreño, Carlos Acosta, Orlando Salgado, Lienz Chang, Jorge Vega, and José Zamorano, before moving to the United States and directing her own school in Miami. She has also been invited to teach at many internationally-recognized schools, including Princeton Ballet School, developing a training curriculum that incorporates much of her Cuban roots.

About her recent appointment, Cabrera said, “Princeton Ballet School is a wonderful organization in which innovation distinguishes its leadership. I am honored to be part of it and have the opportunity to guide our dancers to value and own their education.”

“On behalf of the board, I am delighted to welcome Aydmara Cabrera,” said Charles Metcalf, chair of the board of trustees. “She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience and will be a tremendous addition to the School. PBS is at the forefront of ballet schools nationally and with Ms. Cabrera at its helm will reaffirm PBS’s commitment and dedication to training a new generation of dancers.”