Brae Riggins Blackley

Brae Blackley is a cultural strategist, entrepreneur, and arts leader whose work bridges the performing arts, scholarship, and public humanities. She is currently a PhD student in the Cultural Studies program at George Mason University. Brae previously served as Managing Director for the global dance and ballet sector for The Advisory Board for the Arts, and Managing Director of External Affairs at The Washington Ballet, advising organizations across the dance and ballet sectors on strategy, business development, and audience engagement. She has held board leadership roles with Ballet Hispanico, Carolina Performing Arts, and the Arlington Commission for the Arts. Her research focuses on the role of ballet in American culture, and her work centers on strengthening cultural organizations and exploring the role of culture in shaping more engaged and equitable communities.