Ballets Jazz Montréal proudly announces the appointment of Stéphane Labbé as its new Executive Director, marking an exciting new chapter in the company's illustrious history. With a diverse background spanning performance, management, and leadership in the arts, Labbé brings a wealth of experience and a fresh and bold vision to Ballets Jazz Montréal, poised to guide the company towards continued excellence and innovation as well as positioning the company for continued success and growth on the global stage. Mr. Labbé's distinguished career journey, from his beginnings as a dancer to his transformative leadership roles, embodies his unwavering dedication to advancing the arts and culture landscape in Quebec and one that Ballets Jazz Montréal’s Board of Directors are confident he will bring to the company.
Mr. Labbé's journey in the arts began as a dancer on an international tour with the American troupe Up With People. He further honed his skills in contemporary dance through studies at Concordia University and the École de danse contemporaine de Montréal, where he completed his training in 2002. Labbé's performance career includes notable appearances in Jacques Languirand's Man Inc. and participation in three film productions choreographed by Estelle Clareton, Hélène Blackburn, and Danielle Tardif between 2001 and 2003.
In 2004, Labbé transitioned into arts management, joining Tangente as Production Manager and later assuming the role of Programming Assistant in 2006. His leadership potential soon became evident as he ascended to General and Artistic Co-Director positions from 2010 to 2013, alongside co-founder Dena Davida. In 2013, Labbé took on the role of General Manager, solidifying his reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking leader in the Quebec arts community. Labbé's tenure at Tangente has been characterized by his unwavering commitment to fostering inventiveness and exploration in contemporary dance. His transformative leadership was instrumental in overcoming the challenges of relocating Tangente to the ÉDIFICE WILDER - Espace Danse, establishing it as a vibrant hub for artists and audiences alike.
Labbé's commitment to the arts extends beyond his managerial roles, evidenced by his service on the boards of La Danse sur les routes du Québec and Mandala Sitù. He also served as the president of Chantier Relève disciplinaire at the 2009 Grands Chantiers organized by the Regroupement Québécois de la danse.
Labbé's multifaceted career path reflects his unwavering dedication to evolution and innovation in the field of arts and culture in Quebec. Moreover, Labbé's forward-thinking approach recognizes the evolving landscape of dance, particularly in light of technological advancements. His emphasis on openness and adaptability motivates his team to thrive amidst change, ensuring Ballets Jazz Montréal remains at the forefront of artistic innovation.
In this new role as Executive Director, which takes effect on July 29th, Labbé is poised to steer the company into an exciting new chapter of growth and artistic exploration. He is eager to work alongside Artistic Director, Alexandra Damiani, in leading the company towards continued success and impact on the global stage. Reflecting on his appointment, Stéphane Labbé shared, "I am deeply honoured to join Ballets Jazz Montréal, an internationally renowned company that embodies the dynamism and excellence of Quebec dance. I am proud to contribute to the success and influence of this emblematic company, where every gesture is an affirmation of excellence in the performing arts. I look forward to collaborating with top-notch artists whose unique personalities and talents inspire audiences the world over. Together, we will continue to push the boundaries of creativity, creating works that are as innovative as they are captivating, with the aim of spreading the passion of dance with an ever-growing number of spectators."
"We are delighted to welcome Stéphane to the executive management of our team. I am convinced that his exceptional leadership and strong creativity will propel BJM to unprecedented horizons of growth. His great vision and remarkable experience in the arts and culture milieu will definitely be an asset to our team,” emphasizes François Vaqué, Chairman of the Board at Ballets Jazz Montréal.