Since its debut performance in April 1956 under the skillful direction of founder Andre Van Damme, the Charleston Ballet has presented well over 175 original works as well as many traditional ballet stagings for West Virginia audiences. With a repertory that includes traditional classical favorites, innovative contemporary works and interpretive folk styles, the Charleston Ballet has given West Virginia a unique cultural legacy. In 1972, the company was bestowed the title, Official West Virginia State Ballet, and was the first ballet company to initiate the state theater at the West Virginia Cultural Center. Since Van Damme's death in 1989, the company's director has been Kim Pauley. The Charleston Ballet continues the vision of its founder in providing quality ballet programming for its artists and its audiences.