Dancer and choreographer Wanda Camilo has been appointed as the new director of the Ballet Folklórico Nacional Dominicano in Santo Domingo, the General Directorate of Fine Arts announced on August 12, 2026.
General Director of Fine Arts Marianela Sallent stated that the appointment of Camilo comes in response to her ideal professional profile, notable artistic career, and firm commitment to promoting Dominican culture. Sallent added that officials were pleased, satisfied, and confident in the excellent performance Camilo will bring to the institution.
Upon formally taking office after being sworn in by Sallent, Camilo said she felt honored, happy, and grateful to the Ministry of Culture and the General Directorate of Fine Arts for considering her career to lead the ensemble. She noted that goals are not achieved alone but through teamwork, pointing to her previous work at the Central American Games as a clear example of collective effort.
National dance heritage
Camilo expressed a firm disposition to contribute to strengthening the company while continuing to exalt the nation's roots. She said she entered the position with total openness to support the team and with deep respect for previous administrations that did great work.
The new director explained that her leadership will focus on continuing to exalt national roots so that the company can proudly promote Dominican identity across both domestic and international stages.
Role of fine arts directorate
The Ballet Folklórico Nacional Dominicano serves as the principal official folk dance ensemble of the Dominican Republic, dedicated to preserving traditional rhythms and national heritage through performance art. Based in the capital city of Santo Domingo, the company operates under the authority of the Ministry of Culture.
The General Directorate of Fine Arts is the state entity responsible for overseeing national arts institutions and performing arts companies across the nation. Following Camilo's appointment, both the Ministry of Culture and the directorate reaffirmed their commitment to boosting national folkloric art and projecting Dominican identity through dance worldwide.
