This Mother’s Day, we sat down with BalletX Co-Founder and Artistic & Executive Director, Christine Cox, to reflect on the unique journey of building one of the country’s leading contemporary ballet companies—while raising two sons. From backstage memories to bedtime work sessions, Christine shares a heartfelt look at the balancing act of motherhood and leadership.
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How did you balance the demands of running a dance company with raising two young children?
Having an amazing partner/husband is the only way I’m able to build a family and company at the same time. My partner Tom and I work together and prioritize our two sons and family while having fulfilling careers that engage and inspire us.
In the beginning when I co-founded BalletX, I was able to stay home and do more administrative work to build the company and lay the foundation for our future. I would bring my kids everywhere, and if I needed child care I would hire dance students to babysit and keep the kids close by.
There was a moment when my first son was born that I considered stepping away from the company to be a full-time Mom, but Tom said, “You have to keep building BalletX. It’s part of who you are, and what you’ve loved your whole life—keep going.”
With his support I was locked in. I could see the roadmap for BalletX, and I started to piece it all together. I made sure my kids were with me every step. I set boundaries and worked hard to find a balance, taking time during the day to go to the Zoo or the Please Touch Museum—and then worked from 8 pm until midnight after they went to bed. Wherever I was, I was building the company while being a mother, and doing both with joy.
Can you share a favorite memory of your boys growing up during the early years of BalletX?
They’ve watched the company grow throughout their lifetime. They’ve come on tour, gotten to know the different dancers, and felt comfortable backstage. One of my favorite moments was the world premiere of The Little Prince, and both kids joined the company for a special “circle of love” before the performance. I remember they huddled in a circle with all of the dancers and could feel the nervous energy and excitement. Then they had the pleasure of witnessing the new ballet which they loved.
Some of my favorite tour memories are going to the Vail Dance Festival with them. Everyone at Vail Dance Festival would make them feel welcome and remember them year after year. Experiencing the beauty of those surroundings and that exciting moment for the company, together as a family, is something I’ll always treasure.
What lessons from parenting have helped you as a founder, and vice versa?
Being a mom and a director go hand in hand. Both roles continue to teach me patience, compassion, and understanding.
I’m a nurturer by nature, but I’m also very challenging. I want my children to lean forward—just as I encourage every member of the company to do the same.—because that’s how I live my own life. I’m always asking, How can I lean forward and keep growing as a Mom and Director.
Do you have a favorite “mom moment” at BalletX—on stage, backstage, or beyond?
Any time I’m sitting in the audience with my sons is a favorite moment. They’re seeing something new with me, and I love watching them go on that journey with the audience.
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Happy Mother’s Day to Christine and to all the amazing moms in the BalletX community. Thank you for inspiring us with your strength, creativity, and heart. 💐
