SALT LAKE CITY —Ballet West announces that Principal Artist Tyler Gum will retire from the stage following the company’s production of Dracula, Oct. 23–31, 2026, concluding a professional dance career of more than 16 years.
Gum has accepted the position of Assistant Artistic Director at Ballet Lubbock, beginning Aug. 3, 2026. He will return to Ballet West for Dracula rehearsals and performances through Oct. 31.
Gum joined Ballet West II in 2009 and rose through the ranks to Principal Artist. Alongside his performing career, Gum has built experience in teaching with Ballet West Academy and Halili Cruz School of Ballet, along with choreography and arts education outreach through Ballet West for Children.
A LEGACY AT BALLET WEST —“I’ve grown up at Ballet West,” said Gum. “This company shaped who I am, both as an artist and as a person, and it’s where I found my voice. “Sixteen years as a dancer taught me so much about artistry, excellence, discipline, and what it means to build a company. I look forward to bringing that experience into a new role where I get to shape dancers’ careers in ways that honor the many voices that helped get me to where I am today.”
“I first saw Tyler Gum in 2009 at a ballet competition in Colorado,” says Adam Sklute, Artistic Director of Ballet West. “He was an eager student who displayed great talent, so I invited him to join Ballet West II. Through his hard work, sparkling technique and genius theatrical instincts, Tyler has grown into one of most versatile and valued Principal Artists. He will be greatly missed on the Ballet West stage.”
Sklute adds, “Tyler’s greatness goes beyond wonderful performances though. He is a deeply caring individual, a wonderful dance educator and committed mentor. I am excited for this next chapter of his career and know that the future of our artform is in good hands!”
WELCOMED AT BALLET LUBBOCK —Ballet Lubbock is a nonprofit, pre-preprofessional dance organization based in Lubbock, Texas. “We are thrilled and honored to welcome Tyler Gum to the Ballet Lubbock family as our new Assistant Artistic Director,” said Lily Balogh, Artistic Director of Ballet Lubbock.
“His wisdom, experience, artistry, and expertise, combined with his gentle spirit and joyful presence, will inspire our students to work hard, grow as artists, and develop a lasting love for ballet. We know his influence will extend far beyond the studio, making a meaningful and lasting impact on our entire Ballet Lubbock community.”
ABOUT TYLER GUM —Gum holds a B.F.A. in Ballet, a Coaching certification, and has worked professionally as a children’s book illustrator. He, his wife Olivia, and son are relocating to Lubbock, Texas.
ABOUT BALLET WEST
BALLET WEST, led since 2007 by Artistic Director Adam Sklute, has been celebrated for innovation and excellence since 1963. Based in Salt Lake City, it presents classical masterpieces, historic works like America’s 1st Nutcracker,™ and groundbreaking creations with unparalleled artistic standards. The 2025-26 Season is generously sponsored by Salt Lake Zoo, Arts & Parks, George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, and Intermountain Health.
