New York, NY | Nov 5, 2025 – The Joffrey Ballet School in New York City proudly announces the appointment of Mauro Villanueva and Kenny Borchard as Artistic Directors of the Joffrey Dallas Summer Intensive, a multi-genre intensive that has been a cornerstone of the Joffrey Ballet School’s Summer programming for over a decade.
As co-directors of The Joffrey Workshop, Villanueva and Borchard have inspired dancers nationwide through their shared vision of artistry, inclusivity, and professional excellence. Their partnership blends Villanueva’s extensive classical and contemporary background with Borchard’s expertise in jazz, musical theater, and commercial dance. Together they bring a holistic approach to training rooted in the Joffrey legacy of versatility and the belief that every dancer’s individuality is a source of strength.
Part of the Joffrey Ballet School’s Legacy Circle, Villanueva has been an integral part of the annual Legacy Week and Summer Intensives in recent years. His ongoing work as a répétiteur and board member for The Gerald Arpino Foundation further connects the program to the artistic lineage of Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, ensuring that the Joffrey Dallas Intensive continues to honor the founders’ pioneering spirit while shaping the future of dance education.
“Mauro and Kenny represent the spirit of collaboration, excellence, and innovation that defines Joffrey Ballet School,” said Frank Lee Merwin, Executive Director. “Their combined leadership in Dallas continues our mission to provide world-class training while honoring the legacy of Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino. The Dallas Intensive has always been one of our most vibrant programs. Mauro and Kenny’s shared vision ensures it remains a place where tradition and evolution move together in harmony.”
The Joffrey Dallas Summer Intensive offers a multi-genre training experience in ballet, contemporary, modern, jazz, and musical theater techniques. Students study with leading artists and guest faculty, gaining exposure to a range of styles and choreographic voices. The intensive may also include additional dance disciplines that evolve each season, ensuring a dynamic and comprehensive training experience. The program culminates in a theater performance open to the public.
Summer Intensive Details
Dates: June 29, 2026 – July 17, 2026
Ages: 10 – 25
Genre: Multi-Genre/Fusion
Location: Dallas, Texas
Audition: Required
For program details, visit www.joffreyballetschool.com/summer-intensives/joffrey-dallas.
Dancers may audition in person or online through the 2026 Joffrey Ballet School Audition Tour. Learn more and register at www.joffreyballetschool.com/auditions.
About the Artistic Directors
Mauro Villanueva (he/him)
Villanueva trained at The Nutmeg Ballet Conservatory and spent 13 years performing with The Joffrey Ballet, dancing works by world-renowned choreographers. He is a répétiteur and board member for The Gerald Arpino Foundation and co-director of The Joffrey Workshop, where he continues to advance the company’s legacy through teaching and mentorship.
Kenny Borchard (he/him)
An alumnus of Idyllwild Arts Academy and the University of Arizona, Borchard’s performance career includes television, commercial, and stage work with Disney’s Aladdin: A Musical Spectacular, Odyssey Dance Theatre, and other national companies. As co-director of The Joffrey Workshop, he has developed innovative jazz and contemporary curricula while fostering inclusive, supportive training environments.
Media Contact
For media inquiries, please contact:
Joffrey Ballet School, Maria Zamri, marketing@joffreyballetschool.com
