Laurel Winton

Laurel Winton (formerly known professionally as Jenny Winton)  is the Founder and Executive Director of DanceAspen. After a successful career as a professional ballet dancer, Laurel transitioned seamlessly into the worlds of television and  Broadway before returning to her roots in Aspen to build a bold new chapter in contemporary dance. 

She began her professional dance career in 2009 with the Joffrey Ballet, performing with the company for five years. Her versatility and passion for storytelling then led her to the stage as “Penny” in the National Broadway Tour of Dirty Dancing, and later to the screen with a co-starring role on the CBS series BULL.  Laurel’s love for dance brought her to Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, one of her dream companies, where she deepened her connection to the local community and fellow artists. 

When Aspen Santa Fe Ballet’s performing company disbanded in 2021, Laurel took action, founding DanceAspen to ensure the continuation of professional dance in the region. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into a thriving hub for contemporary performance, artistic collaboration, and community engagement in the Roaring Fork Valley and beyond.