American Ballet Theatre (ABT) has announced the promotion of Jake Roxander to the rank of Principal Dancer, effective 1 September 2026. The announcement was made by Artistic Director Susan Jaffe on stage at the Metropolitan Opera House following the evening performance of Don Quixote, in which Roxander danced the leading role of Basilio.
Born and raised in Medford, Oregon, Roxander began his ballet training at the age of eight at Studio Roxander, founded by his parents. He quickly established himself as a rising talent, winning multiple awards at the Youth America Grand Prix, including the Grand Prix Award in 2018 and 2019.
Roxander joined ABT Studio Company in 2020, became an apprentice with the main Company in 2022, and joined the corps de ballet later that year. He was promoted to Soloist in 2024, building an extensive repertoire that includes roles in The Dream, Onegin, Romeo and Juliet, The Sleeping Beauty, Rodeo, Sylvia and Don Quixote, as well as leading parts in a wide range of classical and contemporary works.
“Jake has an energy on stage that is infectious and entirely his own. He brings extraordinary commitment and intensity to everything he dances, from the great classical roles to the most demanding contemporary works. We are thrilled to celebrate him as a Principal Dancer,” said Susan Jaffe.
With this promotion, Roxander joins the ranks of American Ballet Theatre’s leading artists.
Photos: Courtesy of American Ballet Theatre
