Ben Stevenson, a choreographer with a global reach, passed away on January 7, 2023, at the age of 89, in his Houston home. Stevenson was known for his work with the Houston Ballet, which he helped shape into a world-class company during his tenure as artistic director from 1976 to 2003.
“Ben Stevenson was more than just a choreographer, he was a mentor and a friend to so many in the dance community,” said Stanton Welch, current artistic director of the Houston Ballet, in a statement.
With a career spanning over six decades, Stevenson worked with numerous ballet companies, including the English National Ballet, the National Ballet of Canada, and the Royal Ballet. His most famous works include Cleopatra and Dracula, which have been performed by ballet companies around the world. Stevenson’s impact on the dance world was immense, and his legacy will continue to be felt for years to come. According to a statement from the Houston Ballet, Stevenson’s funeral will be held on January 14, 2023, at 11 am at the St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Houston. In addition to his work with the Houston Ballet, Stevenson also taught at several prestigious dance schools, including the Royal Academy of Dance and the School of American Ballet. As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in from the dance community.
- Stevenson was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 2000 for his contributions to dance.
- He was also awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of Houston in 1997.
- Under his leadership, the Houston Ballet’s budget grew from $1.5 million to over $20 million.
“It challenged previous assumptions about what ballet could be,” said Margaret Downing, a dance critic for a local publication, reflecting on Stevenson’s influence on the dance world. As the dance community mourns the loss of a legend, fans and colleagues alike are left to wonder what’s next for the Houston Ballet and the world of dance at large. The company has announced plans to hold a tribute performance in Stevenson’s honor, with details to be announced in the coming weeks.