Marisol Cristina Betancourt 

Artistic Director

LBV's incoming Artistic Director began her dance training at age three with her mentor Latin Ballet of Virginia's founder and Director Emerita Ana Ines King. She became a member of the Junior Company at age six and performed the lead role of Little Maria in the Legend of the Poinsettia. At 13, Marisol began training with LBV's Professional Company. 

She has performed numerous solo dance roles since 2012, when she was chosen to perform as principal dancer for LBV's World Premiere of "El Pintor," produced by Antonio Hidalgo and Ana Ines King. That same year, Style Weekly honored her as one of their annual "16 under 16." Marisol has also performed with renowned Cuban Percussionist Melena, La Rumbera in the production of MELENA: A Cultural & Musical Journey into my Afro-Cuban Roots. Although trained in many diverse styles of dance, her fierce pride in her Cuban heritage is reflected in her passion for Orisha Dance, Salsa, Rumba and Flamenco.

Guided by Ms. Ana's example, Marisol nurtures the next generation of dancers at her alma mater, the School of the Latin Ballet of Virginia. A natural teacher, she is a faculty member at both school locations and the summer day camp, and she serves as the Junior Company Director. Additionally Marisol has been working with children and families for The Youth Care Worker (YCW) program, helping them to develop positive rapport while serving as a role model to create a safe and caring environment. The program is responsible for providing direct care supervision for youth residing in Southwest Key Programs (SWK), fostering an environment that facilitates learning and behavioral management in a supportive manner. 

As part of her duties as Artistic Director, Marisol is the répétiteur for the LBV’s company and school of dance, reproducing the original choreography of the company's repertory produced by Ana Ines King and international collaborators. As such, Marisol maintains the legacy of LBV’s original productions.  Marisol was named the Artistic Director of the Latin Ballet of Virginia in 2022.