Just six months after being appointed Queensland Ballet’s artistic director, Leanne Benjamin is parting ways with the company.

Rockhampton-born Benjamin was picked to take over from Li Cunxin after an extensive international search, and had returned to her home state after many years working in the UK.

In a statement, the ballet says the decision was mutual, but that it was difficult to realise Benjamin’s vision within the current economic environment, which was “understandably dispiriting”.

The departing director said she would miss the company and its arts colleagues in Queensland “as they continue to channel excellence despite the odds”.

“Ultimately ... it has become very clear that my artistic aspirations for our company, including the opportunity to engage diverse choreographic voices, both international and Australian, and venture outside of the traditional theatre environment with immersive opportunities, is not immediately possible within the funding constraints faced by the company,” she said.

Greg Horsman will fill her role in an acting capacity as Queensland Ballet prepares for its next season, due to be launched in October.