Yael Levitin Saban

Yael Levitin Saban is a Lecturer of Dance in the Dance Performance program at the Conservatory of Dance, Purchase College, State University of New York. A distinguished dancer and educator, she brings extensive professional experience from leading dance companies across the United States and Israel, integrating performance excellence with pedagogical practice.

Education:

• MFA in Dance, Hunter College
• BA in Dance, Columbia College, Chicago
• RAD Certified, Bat Dor Israel

Her research and teaching focus on dance performance and technique, particularly in ballet, modern, and contemporary dance. With a career spanning decades, Yael has performed with world-renowned choreographers and companies, bringing real-world artistry into the academic environment. Her expertise encompasses performance training, choreographic development, and dancer mentorship.

While no scholarly articles are listed, her artistic output reflects deep engagement with performance-based research and interdisciplinary stagecraft, particularly in opera and festival productions.

Scientific Awards:

• Silver Medal, Concours de Paris Dance Soloist Competition (1992)

Yael has mentored numerous dancers through her roles as ballet mistress and adjunct faculty, though formal advisees are not listed. She has taught at Hunter College, Marymount Manhattan College, and Columbia College while balancing performance and academic pursuits. Her professional journey includes significant contributions to dance education through studio instruction and curriculum delivery.

She has been associated with key artistic teams including Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Ballet Hispánico of New York, Lyric Opera of Chicago, and Kibbutz Dance Company, where she served as performer, choreographer, and ballet teacher.