Ballet Master and Repetiteur:
Hailing from Staunton, Virginia, James’ early years revolved around music and theatre before beginning his formal dance training at the Richmond Ballet and North Carolina School of the Arts until he was recruited by Todd Bolender for his first company of dancers in Kansas City.  During his years as principal dancer with Kansas City Ballet, James also performed with The Santa Fe Opera, Santa Dance Company and several companies in and near the New York area.  His career then led him to press relations for public television in New York, prior to his return to Kansas City in 1991 as ballet master.  James served in that capacity for 23 years, collaborating with
dozens of choreographers and stagers from around the globe.  While in Kansas City, James began his work with the Antony Tudor Ballet Trust under the guidance of Trustee Sally Brayley Bliss.  He traveled extensively learning
many Tudor ballets from senior repetiteur Donald Mahler as he worked with ballet companies across the nation.  James most recently staged Gala Performance for Sarasota Ballet in April 2014.  In 2000, James received his BFA from the UMKC Conservatory and has taught and choreographed extensively at numerous universities and schools.  He also serves as the Artistic Trustee of all Bolender ballets.  James sees his recent appointment as ballet master for Sarasota Ballet as opening a new chapter of artistic excellence under the leadership of Iain Webb and Margaret Barbieri.