JERSEY CITY BALLET THEATER COMPANY & SCHOOL
Our Faculty & Staff
Judith Elins Palacio
Founder & Artistic Director
Judith Elins Palacio is a New Jersey and New York City-based seasoned dance artist, teacher, and choreographer with over 20 years of experience.
She studied and performed at renowned institutions including the New Dance Group, Cecchetti School of Ballet, Dance Educators of America, Alvin Ailey School, New Jersey Ballet, Englewood Performing Arts Center, New York University and the Whole Theater, Montclair, NJ.
Her choreography credits include Cristina Fontenelli’s Christmas in Italy at Skirball Center and City Center, NYC. Youth performances at Lincoln Center and Alice Tully Hall, NYC. Disney World Orlando and the London 2012 Olympics.
Judith holds a Simonson Teaching Certification, Pilates certification, and completed the Finis Jhung Method of Ballet Fundamentals Teacher Training. She was dance director at Saint Dominic’s Academy and the Embankment School and currently serves as a Dance Specialist at Hudson Montessori School.
Along with Richard Palacio (1954-2023) she co-founded Jersey City Ballet Theater and School to provide ballet performance and choreographic opportunities to dancers in the community, as well as introduce ballet to an audience who otherwise may not have the opportunity. The school offers an array of scholarships and affordable classes taught by dedicated professionals.
In addition to teaching at Jersey City Ballet School and leading the Artistic Direction of the Jersey City Ballet Theater Company, Judith continues to stay at the forefront of her craft, participating in ballet classes and workshops across the Tri-State area.
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Simon Kazantsev
Jersye City Ballet Theater Company & School Ballet Master
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Laurel Zaleski Mangini
President of the Board of Trustees & Guest Instructor
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Estelle Callahan
Jersey City Ballet Theater Company Dancer & School Faculty
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Chloe Russell
Jersey City Ballet Theater Company Dancer & School Faculty
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Natasha Del'Elmo
School Faculty
Board of Trustees
The Board of Trustees of Jersey City Ballet Theater (JCBT) is a dedicated group of individuals who donate their time and expertise to ensure the continued growth and success of the company and school. Their commitment to the arts helps bring high-quality performances and educational programs to Hudson County, helping to foster a vibrant cultural landscape for all.
GUEST TEACHERS
J.Joseph Burke
Eli Cano
Sonya Cole
Shannon Grant
Erika Keller