Nick Mullikin is the Artistic Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nashville Ballet, where he leads the artistic and strategic direction of one of the largest performing arts organizations in Tennessee.

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Since assuming leadership of the organization, he has guided a period of substantial artistic and institutional growth, including expanded international visibility, record-setting ticket sales, increased contributed revenue, and significant growth across the School of Nashville Ballet and NB2.

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As Artistic Director, Mullikin has commissioned more than fifteen world premieres and expanded the company’s repertory through collaborations with nationally and internationally recognized choreographers including Justin Peck, Jermaine Spivey, Penny Saunders, and Jiří Kylián, while also cultivating emerging creative voices from within the organization. His own choreographic work has been presented nationally and internationally, including performances in London and collaborations with organizations such as Collage Dance Collective.

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Mullikin founded the Nashville Dance Festival collaborating with Dance Theatre of Harlem and Collage Dance Collective, creating a platform for artistic exchange, education, and community engagement. He has also led interdisciplinary digital initiatives designed to expand access to ballet and connect with audiences beyond the traditional stage.

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Under his executive leadership, Nashville Ballet has strengthened its long-term financial and institutional position through expanded programming, strategic audience development, educational growth, and multiyear planning initiatives. He has overseen substantial growth in professional placement for NB2 dancers and trainees, expanded scholarship and accessibility initiatives, and led the organization’s first international performances.

Prior to Nashville Ballet, Mullikin served in artistic and management roles with Ballet West and The Washington Ballet. He began his professional performing career with Houston Ballet.

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Mullikin serves as an International Jury member for Youth America Grand Prix and regularly teaches and adjudicates nationally.