Ivan Gil-Ortega named Qld Ballet’s new artistic director after leadership shake-up

An internationally acclaimed ballet professional will take the helm at Queensland Ballet in February, following the abrupt departure of Leanne Benjamin after just six months in the role.

Ivan Gil-Ortega will take over the role as Qld Ballet’s artistic director.

Queensland Ballet has named internationally acclaimed ballet professional Ivan Gil-Ortega as its new artistic director, marking a fresh chapter for the company after a turbulent leadership transition.

Mr Gil-Ortega, who will assume the role in February, brings extensive experience from across the global ballet landscape, having held positions as principal dancer, assistant director, artistic consultant, and rehearsal director.

“We are thrilled to welcome Ivan to the Queensland Ballet family following a stellar career on stage, in studio and working alongside some of ballet’s leading lights,” Queensland Ballet Board Chair Brett Clark said.

His appointment follows the sudden departure of Leanne Benjamin, who stepped down in August 2024 after just six months in the role.

Ms Benjamin’s tenure came to an unexpected end amid reported clashes with the board over artistic direction and financial constraints.

Her leadership stood in sharp contrast to that of her predecessor, Li Cunxin, who helmed the company for 11 years until 2023 and was widely praised for elevating Queensland Ballet to international prominence.

Former artistic director Leanne Benjamin.

Mr Clark acknowledged the challenges of the past year but expressed optimism for the company’s future under Gil-Ortega’s leadership.

“It is no secret that we have been through a turbulent time of late,” he said.

“We acknowledge [assistant artistic director] Greg Horsman, [executive director] Dilshani Weerasinghe and the wider Queensland Ballet team’s dedication which saw us closing 2024 in good spirits with warm hopes for the future.”

Gil-Ortega has previously collaborated with Queensland Ballet, notably working on Strictly Gershwin in 2016 and returning in 2023 as an associate to choreographer Derek Deane.

“This is a company I have always admired and one that has dared to dream big,” Gil-Ortega said.

“It feels like everything has aligned perfectly to make this the right opportunity for me and for Queensland Ballet.”

Artistic Director of Queensland Ballet Li Cunxin and wife Mary at the Thomas Dixon Centre after announcing their retirement on Tuesday. Picture Lachie Millard

Queensland Ballet’s 2025 season will continue as planned, with Gil-Ortega expected to bring “fresh thinking and energy” to the company.

Mr Clark confirmed that Mr. Horsman, who has served as Acting Artistic Director since Ms. Benjamin’s departure, will return to his role as Assistant Artistic Director once Mr Gil-Ortega takes over.