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Courtesy photo
Carol Whiteman, (left) and Ib Andersen, Ballet Arizona Artistic Director, pose with guests at the 2006 Dance With Me Gala.
(Click picture for full size image)

Ballet Arizona announces fundraiser
by Jim Crawford

PHOENIX – Since its inception in 1986, Ballet Arizona has continually strived to present a variety of  premier performances ranging from “Cinderella,” and “Romeo and Juliet” to the revamped, Ib Anderson‑produced “Nutcracker,” which made its debut during last year’s holiday season.

Ballet Arizona, under the artistic direction of Anderson, dedicates itself to preserving classical dance while creating new and innovative works and serving the people of central Arizona through education and community engagement programs.

As part of its fundraising efforts, Ballet Arizona will present “Dance with Me,” its premiere gala beginning at 6:30 p.m., March 10, with a cocktail hour in the Dorrance Sculpture Gardens followed by dinner and dancing in the Great Hall of the newly‑renovated Phoenix Art Museum.

 

“This is the first time a performing arts company has brought its gala to the Phoenix Art Museum,” says event co‑chair Debbie Bennett. “But it certainly won’t be the last. Usually people who patronize performing arts support the visual arts as well.

The exclusive “Rembrandt and the Golden Age of Dutch Art; Treasures from the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam” exhibition will be available for viewing.

“This evening will give those who only attend performing arts events a chance to experience the visual arts at a fabulous venue,” Bennett says. “It’s perfect timing to have the Rembrandt Exhibition on display. It’s the complete fine arts experience.”

Guests can expect an elegant evening of dinner and dancing, with Ballet Arizona dancers leading the way to the dance floor. 

Entertainment will be provided by Snake Eyes, one of Arizona’s most popular dance bands.

The goal of the event is to help support the community investment of over $1.8 million for the  new “Nutcracker” production that drew more than 45,000 people to Symphony Hall.

“The funds raised at this event will help ensure that for years to come Arizona’s children and families will have the privilege of seeing one of the most beautiful ‘Nutcracker’ productions in the country,” said co‑chair Sharron Lewis. 

Cost for the event is $500 per seat, or tables at $5,000, $10,000, $25,000 and $50,000 are available.

“Ballet Arizona funds itself through its performances,” Bennett said.

For more information or if you would like to have an invitation mailed to you, call (602) 343‑6531 or visit balletaz.org.

Phoenix Art Museum Dorrance Sculpture Garden & Cummings Great Hall is located at1625 N. Central Ave. in Phoenix.

 
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