No stranger to the world of ballet, Tim O’Keefe has surrounded himself with the performing arts his entire career. Having recently stepped into the role of artistic director for the Texas Ballet Theater (texasballettheater.org), he is constantly creating brilliant new ways to honor this beautiful industry.
PORTRAIT BY STEVEN VISNEAU
What drove you to dedicate your life and career to this passion?
I started in musical theater and different forms of dance, and once I saw ballet, I fell in love with it and knew I wanted to be in a ballet company. Ballet is the basis for all dance forms and gives you a technique that allows you the freedom and expression to create characters on the stage.
What are you most looking forward to for this next season?
Continuing our storytelling through the art of ballet. The holiday favorite that we perform is our Artistic Director Laureate, Ben Stevenson’s The Nutcracker. It is the best Nutcracker—it has humor, beautiful dancing, and a lavish production. It is always an audience favorite, and we all look forward to bringing it to the Winspear Opera House and Bass Performance Hall stage. We have Brilliants, our mixed repertoire, which has something for everything from classical to contemporary, and we end our season with the charming love story Beauty and the Beast.
What would you say is the best part of your job?
Witnessing the growth and evolution of our dancers. Their unwavering dedication, the hours they pour into mastering their craft, and then watching that hard work manifest on stage—a truly humbling experience. There’s an indescribable joy in seeing a story come to life, knowing the collective effort that made it possible.
O’Keefe’s Violin Concerto in D. DANCING PHOTO BY AMITAVA SARKAR
What is your favorite performance of all time?
Having a role created for you is the most exciting and fulfilling experience a dancer can have. A standout moment for me was the world premiere of Dracula in 1997. Being a part of that original team and seeing Ben Stevenson’s mesmerizing choreography come to life was an unforgettable experience.
Do you have a mentor?
Ben Stevenson, O.B.E., our Artistic Director Laureate, has been a guiding force throughout my career. His innovative vision and mentorship have been instrumental in shaping my perspective on ballet. Through his imagination and choreography, Ben has revolutionized the art of storytelling through ballet.
Can you expand more on TBT and how we, as a community, might be able to get involved?
Texas Ballet Theater is more than just a ballet company; it’s a beacon of culture in our community. We always welcome and deeply appreciate the support of our patrons. Whether it’s through attending our performances, enrolling in our ballet schools, or becoming a season subscriber, there are myriad ways to get involved. Subscribers, in particular, enjoy special benefits like discounts and early access. Your support truly fuels our passion and dedication.
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