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Virginia Johnson

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description Virginia Johnson Overview

Virginia Johnson is an American ballet dancer, choreographer, and arts administrator who co-founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem alongside Arthur Mitchell in 1969. As a principal dancer with the company for nearly three decades, she became highly regarded for her classical technique and artistic versatility. Following her performing career, she transitioned into arts journalism before returning to serve as the artistic director of the Dance Theatre of Harlem. Under her leadership, the institution continues its mission of promoting diversity and access within classical ballet.

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What is Virginia Johnson's role at the Dance Theatre of Harlem?

Virginia Johnson is a co-founder of the Dance Theatre of Harlem and currently serves as its artistic director. She returned to lead the company after its 2004 restructuring, guiding its revival as a leading institution for classical ballet by and for Black artists.

Was Virginia Johnson a principal dancer?

Yes—Virginia Johnson was a founding principal dancer of the Dance Theatre of Harlem, established in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell. She was celebrated for her classical technique and artistry and was one of the first Black women to achieve international recognition as a ballet principal.

Who founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem with Virginia Johnson?

The Dance Theatre of Harlem was co-founded by Arthur Mitchell, the first Black principal dancer at New York City Ballet, along with Virginia Johnson as a founding member. Mitchell established the company in 1969, shortly after the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., as a commitment to opportunity in classical ballet for young people in Harlem.

Did Virginia Johnson also work in dance journalism?

Yes—between her performing career and her return as artistic director, Virginia Johnson founded and served as editor-in-chief of Pointe Magazine, a major publication dedicated to ballet. Her work in journalism gave her a distinctive perspective on the field before she resumed leadership at Dance Theatre of Harlem.