MIAMI BEACH, Fla. — Lourdes Lopez says she had heard the rumors about Miami City Ballet, that it was a failing institution in a cultural wasteland.

But she says neither turned out to be true. The dance company’s new artistic director said Thursday that she’s found a vibrant arts scene and support for her ambitious plans.

Lopez’s program for the ballet’s 2013-14 season challenges the dancers and their audience with new choreographers. She’s also planning to create a new curriculum for the company’s dance school to include dance and music history, not just dance instruction...