Emily Hartka co-founded Charlottesville Ballet with Sara Clayborne in 2007 and has helped guide its growth into one of Central Virginia’s leading professional arts organizations. A graduate of the University of Virginia (College ’12), Emily created A Fairy Tale Gathering™ as part of her undergraduate thesis—an interactive ballet that continues to tour across the state and has introduced thousands of children to the performing arts.

For eighteen seasons, Emily and Sara Clayborne have led the Ballet together, building a professional company, a thriving academy, and expansive community engagement initiatives. As the organization approaches its 20th anniversary, this spring marks the beginning of a new chapter focused on capacity building and long-term sustainability to support continued growth.

As part of that evolution, Emily is transitioning from her full-time role as director to focus on family and strategic special projects in a part-time capacity. She will continue to support the Ballet’s artistic vision and partnerships, helping ensure a strong future as the organization moves forward under Sara Clayborne's continued leadership.

Concluding this season with A Fairy Tale Gathering™—the work that began her journey—and the ambitious collaboration of America250: Voices of Virginia, a project she conceived and curated with many partners, offers a meaningful celebration of the foundation laid and the horizon ahead.

Emily remains deeply grateful to the artists, students, donors, and community partners who have made this journey possible!