A native of Worcester, Massachusetts, Mr. Harootian received his early training at the Performing Arts School of Worcester. He attended the University of Utah on scholarship and became a member of Utah Ballet; he graduated with a BFA with an emphasis on performing and teaching.  He also performed in and choreographed many of the department’s seasonal shows while dancing leading roles with Utah Ballet. Mr Harootian also performed at Disney’s Epcot Center, the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics Medal Plaza and the Festival of White Nights in Pushkin Russia. Memorable roles include The Captain in Carmen, The Sailor in Con Amore, Doug Spivey in The Widow’s Broom, The Leaves Are Fading and the Chief of Thieves in Eldar Aliev’s A Thousand and One Nights. He also captivates Up Close On Hope audiences choreographing many world premieres. Awarded a choreography grant from the Rhode Island State Council of the Arts in 2007, Mr. Harootian will continue creating new ballets. In addition, he is also the Director of Educational Outreach for FBP. This is Mr. Harootian’s seventh season with FBP.