Hope Garden Children’s Ballet Theatre (HGCBT) has named Justin Rustle as its new Associate Artistic Director, recognizing his continuing contributions to HGCBT productions and his decades of professional experience as a performer, educator, choreographer, and writer.
 

Rustle, a senior staff member at Essence Studios, has collaborated closely with HGCBT on multiple productions, including designing and choreographing last year’s original Cinderella and staging selections for Paquita earlier this year. His extensive résumé spans engagements with nationally-recognized companies such as Ballet Arkansas, Bowen McCauley Dance, Wonderbound, and the Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company, as well as teaching positions at prestigious institutions including Baltimore School for the Arts and Maryland Youth Ballet.
 

“I’m honored to step into this role with HGCBT,” said Rustle. “This company has a rare ability to nurture artistry in young dancers while creating high-caliber productions for our community. I look forward to continuing that commitment to excellence.”

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Artistic Director Claire Jones praised the appointment, noting, “Justin brings an unmatched combination of performance experience, teaching expertise, and artistic vision. His impact is already evident in the growth of our productions’ quality. Having him in this leadership position will only strengthen HGCBT’s artistic future.” HGCBT Board President Brad Gularson added, “Justin’s appointment reflects our commitment to excellence on stage.”

Rustle will continue to teach classes at Essence Studios and will play a pivotal role in HGCBT’s upcoming winter performance, A Winter’s Eve, scheduled for December 6 at the Bender JCC Kreeger Auditorium in Rockville. The event will feature a mix of traditional and culturally diverse holiday-inspired works. Tickets for the show can be purchased on this website starting October 11.