Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre (GMDT), a non-profit, pre-professional dance company housed in the studios of Georgia Dance Conservatory on the Marietta Square, has appointed its first executive director in the company’s 67-year history. Beth Hughes, who has served as the company’s managing director since 2019, transitioned to the new executive director role on April 1, 2024.
“On behalf of the board of directors, we are so proud of the appointment of Beth Hughes as GMDT’s inaugural executive director,” shared Melanie Kagan, current board president for GMDT. “This milestone marks a significant moment in our journey, reflecting our commitment to elevating the arts in Marietta and beyond. With such a dynamic leader at the helm, we are excited for the opportunity to expand our impact, nurture talent, and continue to enrich our community through the power of dance.”
With more than 20 years of experience in the dance industry, Hughes brings a wealth of expertise to GMDT and is motivated to move the company forward as a strong member of the arts community in Marietta. She previously served in various roles at the Birmingham Ballet from 2003 – 2018, such as assistant director, stage manager, ballet mistress, and ballet instructor, and before that worked as the director of dance studies for the Gadsden Community School for the Arts.
In 2018, Hughes began working as costume manager at Georgia Dance Conservatory, and soon after entered the classroom as a ballet instructor in 2019. That same year, GMDT hired Hughes as the managing director of the company as well as assistant stage manager. Her aptitude for project management, maintaining balanced finances, and her deep understanding of the dance industry will help position GMDT for further growth and presence as a leader in the arts community.
“It is such an honor to be selected as Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre’s first executive director,” said Hughes. “I strongly believe in the mission of GMDT and look forward to furthering our vision of helping young dancers become the next generation of artists and leaders and ensuring that GMDT continues to positively impact our community through its performances. I am excited to lead GMDT, one of Georgia’s oldest non-profit arts organizations!”
For more information about Georgia Metropolitan Dance Theatre, please visit georgiametrodance.org.
