CATHERINE BATCHELLER returns for her second consecutive year with the Ballet Conservatory as the Artistic Director and principal teacher of both the academy and company.  Through her professional connections she will bring in contemporary choreographers and recognized guest teachers from around the United States to give San Antonio audiences and students a taste of the current ballet scene today.  She seeks to challenge and inspire BCSTX students and company members through these exceptional opportunities, while providing a strong classical training and foundation for these young dancers. 

Originally from Maine, Catherine has had an international career as a Principal dancer with the San Francisco Ballet, The Stuttgart Ballet (Germany), and The Birmingham Royal Ballet (England).  In addition, she has performed on Broadway an on television in principal roles.  In 2000, she co-founded and co-directed Configuration Dance, a professional Company showcasing leading dancers and choreographers in contemporary ballets, commissioned works, and excerpts from the classics.

Her teaching experience is extensive, and she is a sought after master teacher.  Catherine has been an invited guest teacher for Boston Ballet, Walnut Hill, Portland Ballet, Alberta Ballet, The San Francisco Ballet, and The North Carolina School of the Arts, and her choreography has been performed in many of these prestigious schools.  Former students have gone on to dance at Alvin Ailey, Purchase, and the School of American Ballet. 

Catherine's leadership brings the highest standards to BCSTX and the San Antonio dance community.