Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Ballet Arizona hosted its annual Dance With Me Gala at the Arizona Biltmore and was chaired by Carla Cohen honoring Joan and Charlie Berry for their longtime philanthropic support.
The gala raised more than $500,000 in support of Ballet Arizona’s professional dance company, its upcoming season and its education and community engagement programs, according to a press release.
The theme for this year’s gala was inspired by Ballet Arizona’s production of “ALICE (in Wonderland).” Guests viewed an exclusive preview ahead of its February 12 to 15 run at Symphony Hall. They also saw a preview of “Apollo,” which will premiere March 19 to 22 at Orpheum Theatre as part of Ballet Arizona’s “Cacti & Other Works” mixed program.
“It was a tremendous honor to have chaired this year’s gala in support of Ballet Arizona, an organization whose unwavering commitment to artistic excellence continued to inspire audiences and enrich our cultural landscape,” Ms. Cohen said. “The evening celebrated not only the beauty and discipline of ballet, but also the remarkable community that made it all possible. We were profoundly grateful for the generosity of our patrons and had looked forward to an unforgettable night in support of this timeless art form.”
Ms. Cohen, along with Ballet Arizona Artistic and Executive Director Daniela Cardim and Jami Kozemczak, welcomed attendees and recognized the contributions of Joan and Charlie Berry. Madison Penney and Alli Chester received the Hazel Hare Award for Artistic Excellence, which honors dancers whose dedication and passion reflect the qualities embodied by Hazel Hare.
Following the preview of “ALICE (in Wonderland)” and dinner, guests joined Ballet Arizona dancers on the dance floor — a tradition that gives the event its name.
