José Carlos Martínez named next National Dance Company director

Murcia-born José Carlos Martínez has been named the new artistic director of the National Dance Company (CND) by Culture Minister Ángeles González-Sinde. Currently star dancer at the Paris Opera, he replaces Hervé Palito, who temporarily filled in after Nacho Duato's early departure in the summer following differences with González-Sinde about the direction of the company.

Chosen from 21 candidates as part of a new selection process the Ministry touted as "open and transparent," Martínez will take up the role from September 2011 for five years. Considered one of the greatest male ballet dancers of his generation, he said he was keen to continue Duato's work "which has brought the company to a point of excellence that has to be maintained [and continued] to the next level, respecting the past and even using it in the future."