American Ballet Theatre (ABT) is one of the greatest dance companies in the world. Since its founding season in 1940, ABT’s mission has been to create, present, preserve, and extend the incredible repertoire of classical dancing for the widest possible audience. Headquartered in New York City, ABT is the only cultural institution of its size and stature to extensively tour, enchanting audiences for eight decades in 50 U.S. states, 45 countries, and over 480 cities worldwide. ABT’s repertoire includes full-length classics from the nineteenth century, the finest works from the early twentieth century, and acclaimed contemporary masterpieces. In 2006, by an act of Congress, ABT was designated “America’s National Ballet Company®.”
The Physical Therapist is a part-time position within the Wellness Program who is responsible for planning and administering physical therapy treatment plans designed to restore function, manage and alleviate pain, prevent disabilities, and promote overall fitness and health of the student dancers. The practitioner will develop screenings, personalized treatment plans, recommend medical specialists, and provide exercise techniques to improve their health. The position works with ABT’s Pre-Professional Division (approximately 70 students) and ABT Studio Company (12 dancers), plus the ABT Apprentice Program dancers in the fall semester (6 dancers). It will consist of 12-15 hours per week, including treatments, notes, and staff meetings. The hours of treatment are set at the beginning of each semester, with periodic evening and weekend responsibilities. The position reports to the Dean of Faculty & Students and Co-Director of ABT Education meeting and as needed for check-ins with our main company medical specialist to keep all ABT Education services in alignment with the organization.
The Physical Therapist will have a warm collaborative nature, positive energy, sense of humor, possess organization and prioritization skills and is self-motivated in the completion of his/her work. She/he will have exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, including interacting comfortably with various people. This person will have genuine empathy and an awareness of the needs and sensitivities of students.