Photo by Rob Borel
Everybody dances
That is the message of Fort Wayne Ballet, a professional dance company featuring amazing performances, disciplined educational and training opportunities, and inspired community engagement activities.
In recognition to all that Fort Wayne Ballet gives to the community, Living Fort Wayne will be spotlighting the dancers through our new series about those that choose to express themselves through the beauty of movement.
But before we do, check out this fascinating information from the Fort Wayne Ballet.
Did you know?
Fort Wayne Ballet started in 1956 on Broadway Street before moving to Penn Avenue in 1969. After relocating in 2011 to its spacious new facility at the Auer Center for Arts and Culture on Main Street downtown, the Ballet is now at the center of Fort Wayne’s creative arts community.
At the Ballet, you’ll find a variety of training and educational opportunities through the Academy for all types of students. Young children may get their first experience with dance through the Pre-Ballet programming, young performers serve as ambassadors to the community through the Youth Company, and those that decide to dedicate their lives to dance may audition for the Conservatory. Open classes are available for students of all levels.
The Ballet is nationally recognized for its seasonal performances of The Nutcracker, which are both breathtaking and beautiful. This holiday classic comes to life as part of Fort Wayne’s seasonal celebration again this December. Other upcoming Main Stage Performances are At the Edge in September and Don Quixote in March. For more information on these and other performances, please visit the performances page on the website.
Community Engagement and Partnerships
The Ballet has made giving back to the community an important part of its mission. The organization also offers exploratory programming, free public presentations, lecture demonstrations, visiting teacher programs, and in-theatre performances.
The Ballet has collaborated with numerous groups in and around the Fort Wayne community, such as the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Animal Care & Control, and the Fort Wayne Tincaps baseball team. For example, the “Muttcracker” program with Animal Care & Control helps find forever homes for the area’s displaced pet population.
The Future is Bright
With their 60th anniversary approaching in 2016-17, Fort Wayne Ballet continues to set high standards of excellence in instruction, programming, and community engagement. The Ballet offers several unique opportunities for donors to give to the organization with a Goal of $1 Million and Beyond. To entice and honor donors at many levels, a selection of naming and gift opportunities are offered.
More Information
Visit the Fort Wayne Ballet at 300 East Main Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802 or online at www.fortwayneballet.org. Contact the Ballet by phone at (260) 484-9646, fax at (260) 484-9647, or email at info@fortwayneballet.org. Connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, and WordPress.
Special thanks to Christy Sandmaier, Director of Administration, Fort Wayne Ballet.