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Dave Hurlbert
Executive Director at Marigny Opera House
Professional Background
Dave Hurlbert is a prominent figure in the performing arts community, particularly in the vibrant cultural scene of New Orleans, where he serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of the esteemed Marigny Opera House. Since its inception, he has been instrumental in producing a diverse array of productions that encompass opera, classical music, contemporary ballet, modern dance, performance art, and even puppetry. His visionary leadership has helped cultivate a rich cultural tapestry in New Orleans, making this venue a cornerstone of artistic expression in the city.
In addition to his role at the Marigny Opera House, Dave co-founded the Marigny Opera Ballet, formerly known as the Marigny Opera House Dance Company, in 2014. His position as Co-Director has allowed him to shape the direction of the company, focusing on innovative performances that engage and inspire audiences. Through his efforts, he has fostered a collaborative environment that promotes both established and emerging artists in the world of dance.
With a strong foundation in music, Dave’s background includes being a skilled classical pianist and composer. He honed his craft at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Music focused on Music Theory and Composition and Piano Performance. His classical training produced a versatile musician capable of contributing significantly to various artistic disciplines.
Career Milestones
Over the years, Dave has collaborated with numerous esteemed artists and institutions to further his artistic aspirations. As a rehearsal pianist, he had the privilege of working alongside iconic figures such as Alexandra Danilova and Patricia Wilde at the American Ballet Theatre School. His time at the San Francisco Ballet as the Principal Pianist saw him collaborating with revered choreographers like Michael Smuin and Lew Christensen, further solidifying his expert reputation within the ballet community.
In the 1990s, Dave's entrepreneurial spirit led him to co-found Goat Hall Productions, a small but impactful opera and musical theatre company based in San Francisco. As Music Director for the company, he showcased his talent and expertise through multiple productions, including revered works such as “Les Mammelles des Tiresias” and “A Little Night Music.” His ability to merge music and theatre has contributed to the cultural enrichment of the San Francisco Bay Area.
Beyond his artistic endeavors, Dave brings a wealth of knowledge in branding and corporate identity to the table. He has held significant positions with reputable agencies such as Landor Associates and Addison Design Consultants, where he played critical roles in verbal communications and corporate identity. His diverse skill set enables him to bridge the worlds of art and business, emphasizing the importance of strong organizational structure in successful artistic projects.
Education and Achievements
Dave Hurlbert's educational background is steeped in formal arts training. At the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, he developed his foundational skills in music theory and composition as well as piano performance, all of which created a launchpad for his impressive career in the arts. Through a combination of rigorous academic training and practical experience, he has emerged as a leader in his field.
Dave is also deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of artists and promoting collaboration within the community. He holds active positions within numerous organizations, including serving as an associate Board Member of the Paul Taylor Dance Company. His involvement with the New Orleans Dance Alliance as a founding member showcases his dedication to strengthening the dance community in the region. Moreover, his former role as head of the dance nominating committee for the Foundation for Entertainment Development and Education’s prestigious “Tribute to the Classical Arts Awards” reflects his commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence in the classical arts.
Notable Contributions
Dave’s impact on the arts extends beyond formal titles and accolades. His career is defined by a series of contributions that demonstrate an unwavering commitment to the arts and the development of cultural platforms. From his transformative work at Marigny Opera House, fostering a space that encourages artistic collaboration, to his role as a Music Director with various production companies, Dave has left a positive imprint on many aspects of the performing arts landscape.
Through his experience in both the arts and corporate sectors, he advocates for the importance of art in fostering community connections and cultural dialogue. By passionately producing diverse artistic events at the Marigny Opera House and aligning with like-minded organizations, he helps create opportunities for artists of all disciplines, ultimately nurturing the growth of the arts in New Orleans and beyond.
Achievements
- Co-Founder and Executive Director of Marigny Opera House in New Orleans
- Co-Founder and Co-Director of Marigny Opera Ballet (formerly Marigny Opera House Dance Company)
- Principal Pianist at San Francisco Ballet, collaborating with esteemed choreographers
- Music Director at Goat Hall Productions, directing multiple successful productions
- Associate Board Member of Paul Taylor Dance Company
- Founding member of the New Orleans Dance Alliance
- Former head of dance nominating committee for Tribute to the Classical Arts Awards
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Mesh is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Mesh beneficial.
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