Nevermore Program

Support art you love

1

NEW CLASSIC STORIES FRESH DANCE THEATER YOURS

VOL 01

2023

NEVERMORE: STORIES OF EDGAR ALLAN POE

PHYSICAL THERAPY MASSAGE THERAPY PILATES

+MORE

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— CONTENTS —

INSIDE

Artists of Ballet Fantastique in the world premiere of Nevermore, 2019, Hult Center | Bob Williams

FROM THE CHOREOGRAPHERPRODUCERS PAGE 9

BFAN SECRET SOCIETY DONORS PAGE 20

FROM PHILIP PIELE, BFAN BOARD PRESIDENT

NEVERMORE PROGRAM & MAKERS

PAGE 11

BEGINS PAGE 22

BFAN EVENTS CALENDAR

DANCERS OF BFAN

PAGE 12

BEGINS PAGE 32

City Center for Dance, 960 Oak Street, Eugene, OR 97401 C/T: 844-494-6793 | balletfantastique.org

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 6

Find your new holiday tradition...

A HOLIDAY STORY

Nov 25–26 Thanksgiving Weekend SILVA CONCERT HALL

Don’t miss the next BFan show.

Code SUGARPLUM for 20% off!

Save your seat for the jazziest show of the season!

BALLET FANTASTIQUE REMIXES NUTCRACKER.

The pleasure of your company is requested at the

35 NEW FULL-LENGTH STORY BALLET WORLD PREMIERES HERE AT THE HULT ((AND COUNTING))

Since 2000

B A L L E T

F A N T A S T I Q U E

Winter Wonderland Gala F R I D A Y ,

D E C E M B E R

1 ,

2 0 2 3

T h e B a l l r o o m a t t h e D o w n t o w n A t h l e t i c C l u b

REPERTOIRE Cocktail Reception

5:30 pm

Dinner

6:30 pm

Live auction

7:30 pm

AFTER-PARTY FOLLOWING DINNER + LIVE AUCTION

P r e s e n t i n g

S p o n s o r

SCAN THE QR CODE TO RSVP OR GO TO BALLETFANTASTIQUE.ORG/GALA

— WELCOME FROM THE DIRECTORS —

YOUR NEW ART isHERE. Dear BFans,

When we unleash our imagination, we find new parts of ourselves. There’s unexpected raw humanity in the fantastical.

The new stories we’ve chosen to tell you in dance this season are filled with adventure, hope, loss, survival, love, grief, spirit, grit, passion. And not only do they showcase the humans and artists of this company like never before (and we’re so proud of them!)—but we hope that they speak to you in new ways, too.

Thank you for supporting art you love.

We cherish this opportunity to share the art we make with you in this space, together.

Donna & Hannah DONNA MARISA BONTRAGER & HANNAH BONTRAGER FOUNDING CHOREOGRAPHER-PRODUCERS

Donna Marisa & Hannah Bontrager | Bob Williams

Donna Bontrager, Founding Artistic Director Co-Choreographer-Producer Lead Costume Designer

23-24 HULT CENTER CONCERT SEASON

Hannah Bontrager, Founding Executive Director Co-Choreographer-Producer

Nevermore: Stories of Edgar Allan Poe Oct. 19-22, 2023 | Soreng

Hannah Bontrager Ashley Bontrager Izzy Bloodgood Ana Brooks Nicole Brown

Elizabeth Chapa Brooke Geffrey-Bowler Tavari Groesbeck Jenavieve Hernandez Madeline Kiesel Preston Andrew Patterson

Lucy Pearce Gustavo Ramirez Raymond Silos Joshua Richard Webb Phoebe Wind

Gustavo Ramirez, Rehearsal Director, Ballet Master

Babes in Toyland Nov. 25–26, 2023 | Silva Cinderella: A Rock Opera Feb 29, Mar. 1-3, 2024 | Soreng Alice in Wonderland: Remix May 9-12, 2024 | Soreng BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 9

BFan Ladies’ Night

CELEBRATING THE POWER OF FEMALE LEADERSHIP. Artists of Ballet Fantastique in the world premiere of Robin Hood | Bob Williams

Join us for BFan Ladies’ Night @Hult PRESENTED BY SUMMIT BANK

THUR FEB 29 — CINDERELLA THU MAY 9 — ALICE: REMIX

Summit Bank: Internationally recognized as a leading community bank. Female top-ranking employees and Women of Influence Awardwinners at the helm. Remarkable expansion, proven stability, and consistently growing impact in the PNW. Ballet Fantastique: As a groundbreaking, Emmy®-nominated company founded and led by women, we challenge the status quo about whose voices are telling the story: Women fill ballet stage's and classrooms, but the vast majority of choreographers and artistic directors are men. We are an immersive theatrical experience embodying stories that resonate, inspire, and matter.

Together, we are challenger brands, industry leaders, and community trailblazers, committed to genuine connection with our audiences and stakeholders.

— WELCOME FROM THE BOARD —

classic stories. new dance theater. immersive theatrical experiences. ballet like you’ve never seen before.

W

elcome to the first production of Ballet Fantastique’s 2023-24 season: Nevermore, a pre-Halloween performance featuring five curated works by 19th-century American author Edgar Allan Poe—in new dance theater you can’t experience anywhere else.

Admired by Charles Dickens and Abraham Lincoln, Poe crafted stories that—while fantastical—are filled with humanity, sadness, suspense, horror, the macabre, and loss deeply rooted in his American experience spanning the Civil War, his own life tragedies, financial distress, international editorial career, and military service. Ballet Fantastique’s creative adaptation of Poe’s evocative work in inimitable dance theater, with original choreography, sets, costumes, and dark and mysterious music by contemporary composers Peter Gundry, Lucas King, and classical works

by Sergei Rachmaninoff and Erik Satie—all combine to blend the graceful elegance of ballet with the eerie and haunting world of Edgar Allen Poe’s work.

Our concert begins with the foreboding and terrifying “Masque of the Red Death,” followed by the depths of sorrow and loss in “The Raven,” next the decay and madness of “Fall of the House of Usher.” Act II is our interpretation of Poe’s poignant and tragic “Annabel Lee,” ending with the sinister and chilling “Cask of the Amontillado.”

SUPPORT

ART YOU love.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I recognize and enthusiastically applaud the artistry, dedication, and perseverance of the co-founders of Ballet Fantastique: Donna Marisa Bontrager and her daughter, Hannah, without whose vision, hard work, and determination the company would not exist. We also acknowledge our outstanding team who work tirelessly to bring BFan’s fascinating and compelling performances to the stage.

Sincere thanks and gratitude to 23–24 Season Title Sponsor, Alpha IT, to our generous donors, and to all of you here in the audience for sharing this bewitching performance with us. I encourage your continued support of this incredible theatrical ballet company by purchasing season tickets, urging your family and friends to attend, and donating generously.

We will see you next for Babes in Toyland in the Silva Concert Hall, followed by Ballet Fantastique’s 8th annual Masquerade Ball and most important fundraiser of the season, Winter Wonderland, Friday, Dec. 1st at the Downtown Athletic Club Ballroom.

With sincere appreciation,

Philip K. Piele President, Ballet Fantastique Board ON BEHALF OF OUR STAFF, ARTISTS, AND THE BFAN BOARD OF DIRECTORS

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 11

— BFAN EVENTS CALENDAR —

FRI / SEPT 29 / 6:30PM NEVERMORE OPEN BARRE

SUN / NOV 26 / 5PM BABES CAST PARTY

FRI / APR 19 / 6:30PM ALICE OPEN BARRE

Open rehearsal, first-release tastings, mini-lecture w/ Dr. B —toast the new art with us. $20 or free for subscribers (City Center for Dance)

Meet the artists after the show, flash your BFan ticket, and support BFan @ Alesong on 5th!

Open rehearsal, first-release tastings, mini-lecture w/ Dr. B —toast the new art with us. $20 or free for subscribers (City Center for Dance)

SAT-SUN / OCT 7-8 / 5:30PM NEVERMORE HAUNTED HOUSE Haunting poetry, mysterious characters in dark corners as you are guided through a candle-lit Victorian mansion. Get spooky with us (Shelton McMurphey Johnson House)

THU / OCT 19 / 7PM NEVERMORE LADIES’ NIGHT Nevermore dinner + wine pairings @ Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge, Hult performance to follow. Mingle with the artists following the show (Hult Lobby)

THU-SUN / OCT 19-22 NEVERMORE: STORIES OF EDGAR ALLAN POE The haunting stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life on stage.

Join us for an exclusive dance theater experience inspired by the tantalizing dark romances and poetry of a Victorian genius.

SUN / OCT 22 / 5PM NEVERMORE CAST PARTY MIXER Meet the artists after the show, flash your BFan ticket, and support BFan @Alesong on 5th!

SAT-SUN / NOV 25-26 BABES IN TOYLAND: A HOLIDAY STORY Retroglam choreography, bright whimsy—We spin Victor Herbert’s madcap fairytale mashup with hot jazz—and bring a lost holiday classic to life in splashy dance theater.

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 12

FRI / DEC 1 / 5:30PM ALPHA IT PRESENTS: WINTER WONDERLAND GALA Join us, don your finest attire, and embrace the intrigue of a Black Tie Masquerade as we gather for an evening of elegance in support of Ballet Fantastique’s immersive, innovative arts and education work in our city (Downtown Athletic Club Ballroom)

FRI / FEB 2 / 6:30PM CINDERELLA OPEN BARRE Open rehearsal, first-release tastings, mini-lecture w/ Dr. B —toast the new art with us. $20 or free for subscribers (City Center for Dance)

THU / FEB 29 / 7:30PM CINDERELLA LADIES’ NIGHT Cinderella dinner + wine pairings @ Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge, Hult performance to follow. Mingle with the artists following the show (Hult Lobby)

THU-SUN / MAY 9-12 ALICE IN WONDERLAND: REMIX MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND: Escape down the rabbit hole in a bright, newfangled tour of Wonderland.

THU / MAY 9 / 7:30PM ALICE IN WONDERLAND LADIES’ NIGHT Alice in Wonderland dinner + wine pairings @ Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge, Hult performance to follow. Mingle with the artists following the show (Hult Lobby)

SUN / MAY 12 / 5PM ALICE IN WONDERLAND CAST PARTY MIXER Meet the artists after the show, flash your BFan ticket, and support BFan @ Alesong on 5th!

THU-SUN / FEB 29-MAR 3 CINDERELLA: THE ROCK OPERA Don't miss this unique and exhilarating immersive performance experience, bringing together the elegance of ballet, the energy of rock 'n' roll, and the timeless tale of Cinderella.

SUN / MAR 3 / 5PM CINDERELLA CAST PARTY MIXER Meet the artists after the show, flash your BFan ticket, and support BFan @Alesong on 5th!

Add all BFan Events to your Calendar now!

HULT SEASON

. e v o l u o y t r a t r o p p

S u T ic k e ts $ 1 5 - 7 8

SAVE YOUR BFAN SEATS NOW

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND

MOTHER'S DAY

1ST TIME SINCE 2015

— MAKERS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

donna marisa bontrager Ballet Fantastique's Canadian-born Artistic Director, Donna, is a choreographer, designer, and expert master teacher in the Vaganova Syllabus. Ms. Bontrager's performance résumé embraces work with New York companies, including Empire State Ballet, Buffalo City Ballet, Royale Dance Theatre New York, and Festival Choir Ballet. She was one of ten dancers invited to perform as part of the international Feast of the Tabernacles in Jerusalem, Israel, and has been invited to join the World Congress on Dance. Ms. Bontrager has overseen Ballet Fantastique repertoire and productions involving partnerships with choirs, opera, and soloist vocalists, symphony and chamber orchestras, literary and visual artists, and composers. Ms. Bontrager has visioned, choreographed, produced, and staged the entire critically acclaimed alloriginal Ballet Fantastique repertoire of over 92 original works since 2000—including 26 full-length contemporary narrative ballets, and 25 consecutive productions with live music, including creating new work during the Covid-19 pandemic and shutdown. She has also led BFan commissions for Eugene Symphony, Oregon Mozart Players, and many others. Under Donna's leadership, Ballet Fantastique has toured across the NW. Donna also oversaw BFan's sold out, critically-acclaimed international debut at the Palariviera Theater as the first US dance company invited to perform in San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy. Donna's love of the arts also extends to her design work as an alumna of the University of Oregon's School of Architecture and in the design of BFan's critically-acclaimed costumes. Donna has also developed the complete Academy of Ballet Fantastique curriculum.

CHOREOGRAPHER-PRODUCER FOUNDING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR COSTUME DESIGN DIRECTOR

— THE MAKERS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

hannah bontrager Hannah is Ballet Fantastique's Executive Director, CoChoreographer Producer, and lead grant writer. Hannah graduated at the top of her class (summa cum laude and phi beta kappa) from the Robert D. Clark Honors College of the University of Oregon where, as a full scholarship student, she earned concurrent degrees in Dance and English Literature and a minor in Arts Administration, as well as the American Association of University Women Award, the Dance Achievement Award, and the Dean's Award for Service, and was the invited Honors College graduation speaker. Under Hannah’s leadership, Ballet Fantastique has earned touring invitations on behalf of Ballet Fantastique nationally and internationally; grant awards from major foundations; and hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash and in-kind corporate and individual support.

Hannah is listed among the international Who’s Who Among Executives and Professionals, is a Comcast Newsmaker, and Blue Chip "20 under 40" award recipient. Hannah also leads a number of educational initiatives for Ballet Fantastique, including Passport to Dance and The EXPERIENCE DANCE! Project, which have brought innovative dance experiences to thousands of schoolchildren across Oregon ever year for the past 20+ years.

CHOREOGRAPHER-PRODUCER

FOUNDING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Also a trained professional dancer and performer, Hannah studied Vaganova pedagogy with her mother, Donna Marisa Bontrager. She also trained at the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Washington, DC. Hannah spent a season with Colorado Ballet Company and subsequently with Manassas Ballet Theatre in the Washington, DC metro area (where she performed leading roles including Sugar Plum Fairy, Nutcracker and the lead in Vivandière/ Markitenka). Donna and Hannah have collaborated to produce bold crossdisciplinary Ballet Fantastique contemporary ballet premieres and collaborations at home and on tour, including the entire body of Ballet Fantastique's work. As a founding principal dancer with Ballet Fantastique, Hannah has earned rave critical reviews in myriad soloist roles.

Hannah is proud mom to Finn (age three) and Liam (age one), and is thrilled to be back on stage with her BFan family.

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 15

TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS BOARD PRESIDENT Philip Piele SECRETARY Dianna Pounder BOARD MEMBERS Brandy Rodtsbrooks Nicole Roselio Steve Webster Donna Marisa Bontrager Hannah Bontrager Izzy Bloodgood, Dancer representative

ADVISORY BOARD Mary Spilde Matthew King Emily Dew Thea Vandervoort Amy Stoddart Gina Bolles Sorenson Steve Robinson

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 16

— PEOPLE — Donna Bontrager, Founding Artistic Director Hannah Bontrager, Founding Executive Director

PRODUCTION + CREATIVE TEAM Donna Marisa Bontrager, Lead Costume Designer Hannah Bontrager, Production Manager Deborah Speer, Libretto, Historical, Music Research, Creative Team Allison Ditson, Costume Design, Production JP Durand, Stage Manager Michael Peterson, Lighting Designer Sam Fox, Wardrobe Supervisor, Resident Maker Deborah Peña, Set Design, Construction, Painting, Special Effects Liza Carbé, Assistant Stage Manager Mitra Gruwell, Headpieces, Masks Gerry Rempel, Resident Composer & Arranger Genevieve Speer, Artistic Associate, Libretto Support, Historical, Music Research Nathan Farrington, Musical Arrangements Adam Goldthwaite, Set Design, Special Effects, Sculptor

STAFF Ashley Bontrager, Development Director Jeany Snider, Director of Community Engagement Elizabeth Chapa, Academy Administrator Ana Brooks, Outreach Coordinator Genevieve Speer, Finance Manager Dianna Pounder, Academy Billing Monica Piper, Events Support Jeff Mecredy, Leadership & Growth Phoebe Wind, Administrative Assistant

ACADEMY FACULTY Isabelle Bloodgood, Teen/Adult Division Ashley Bontrager, Professional Training Division Donna Bontrager, Professional Training Division Hannah Bontrager, Professional Training Division Ana Brooks, Professional Training Division, Young Dancer Division, Teen/Adult Division Elizabeth Chapa, Young Dancer Division, Teen/Adult Division Brooke Geffrey-Bowler, Professional Training Division Tavari Groesbeck, Teen/Adult Division Jenavieve Hernandez, Teen/Adult Division Gustavo Ramirez, Company Rehearsal Director

PHOTO/VIDEO Attic Media Greg Burns Bronson Studios Miki Markovitch Chappel Miller Marc Allen Mintz Photography Megan Andrews Fine Art Gustavo Ramirez Raymond Silos Stephanie Urso Photography Bob Williams Woden Photography

MARKETING/MEDIA Isabelle Bloodgood, Marketing Coordinator Elise Ferguson, Elizabeth Chapa, Nicole Brown, Ana Brooks, Marketing Support Gustavo Ramirez, Film & Marketing Hannah Bontrager, Graphic Design, Program Magazine Design

KEY VOLUNTEERS Kimberly Grimes Jitendra Joshi Sarah Preston Sara Stewart Joshua Whitley Dylan Wilcox BFan’s Academy Families & many, many more

For outreach experiences and group pricing 2 3 – 2 4tickets L I V E M including U S I C S U P P discounted ORT and backstage tours, contact Director POLLY ASHWORTH & ROB HORNER M A Y L I A N of PAK & D R . M A T T Engagement, SHAPIRO Community Jeany B R ASnider: NDY ROD T S B R O O K S jeany@balletfantastique.org BRITTANY QUICK-WARNER

BFan outreach | Marc Allen Mintz

FALL CLASSES: SEPT 11-DEC 16

your boutique professional dance theater training school in the pnw

ACADEMY OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE CLASSES FOR YOUNG DANCERS

EDUCATION

BITSY BALLET (AGES 2-3) Sat 9:30-10am * WAIT LIST ONLY TWINKLING STARS (AGES 3-5) Mon 3:45-4:30pm &/or Sat 9-9:45am RISING STARS (AGES 5-7) Mon 4-4:45 pm &/or Sat 9-9:45am WAIT LIST ONLY

PROFESSIONAL TRAINING DIVISIONages 7+ perform with the company!

CONTACT US TO AUDITION (AGES 7+)

CLASSES FOR TEENS/ADULTS (AGES 13+) BEGINNING BALLET Tue 6:30-8pm &/or Sat 10:30am-12pm INTERMEDIATE BALLET Mon 6:30-7:45pm &/or Wed 6:30-7:45pm INTERMEDIATE-ADVANCED BALLET Wed 9-10:30am &/or Fri 9-10:30am POINTE REPERTOIRE Fri 6:45-7:45pm

official training school of the Ballet Fantastique professional company —individual approach, mentorship + performances!

BROWSE BFAN CLASSES NOW!

CONTEMPORARY Tue 7:15-8:15pm TEEN/ADULT WORKSHOPS: BEGINNING BALLET, BALLROOM, POINTE!

MAKE A GIFT WITH POWER, PRESENCE, AND LEGACY

CALLING ALL RENEGADES DONATE TO BALLET FANTASTIQUE TODAY —AND JOIN OUR SECRET SOCIETY— —AND NEVER LOOK BACK—

Support art you LOVE. WHEN YOU SUPPORT BFAN, YOU FUND : NEW ART | LIVE MUSIC | INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION | NEW ARTISTIC VOICES | THE NEXT GENERATION OF KIDS WHO BELONG IN THIS THEATER WHEN YOU SUPPORT BFAN, YOU GET : YOUR NAME ON THE LIST | FANCY SOUVENIRS | SECRET PARTY INVITES (REALLY) | TAX WRITEOFF (TALK TO YOUR ACCOUNTANT; IT COULD BE BIG)

DONATE CASH, STOCK,

OR CRYPTO TO BFAN HERE >> (or sign up for a recurring monthly gift)

— DONORS TO BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

BALLET FANTASTIQUE

SECRET SOCIETY We would like to recognize the incredible generosity of the individuals, foundations, and businesses who support Ballet Fantastique’s mission and programs. Pledges and contributions received between 8/1/22–9/30/23.

FOUNDATION SUPPORT Charles & Betti Saunders Foundation Fund of the Austin Community Fund (gratitude to Erin Walter, who contributed this in honor of Preston Patterson joining the BFan company) Dorothea M. Lensch Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation Ellen Glendel Hyman Fund of The Oregon Community Foundation Fidelity Charitable Herbert Merker Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation Hult Endowment Fund of the Western Oregon Community Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation James F. & Marion L. Miller Foundation Mehlum Family Foundation National Endowment for the Arts Neil Chinn Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation Oregon Arts Commission Oregon Community Foundation Oregon Cultural Trust Renaissance Charitable Foundation Ronald W. Naito Foundation San Francisco Foundation SHO — Support Hult Operations Silva Endowment Fund of the Western Oregon Community Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation Tamolitch Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation Walker Charitable Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation

LUMINARIES ($30,000 OR MORE)

PROVOCATEURS ($2,000-$4,999)

Alpha IT Anonymous

Attic Media Jeff Ball Cindy Bedell & Rich Blanton Sarah & Adam Burner Robert J. Cummings Charlcie Kaylor & Charles L. Crawford Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge Eugene Elks Lodge #357 Sue & Bob McClelland Nancy Nathanson & Steve Robinson Sally & Eric Overstreet Susan E & Arthur R Palsbo Debby & John Phillips Helmut Plant, In memory of Carol Hamrick Plant QSL Printing Rhythm & Blooms Mary & Mike Staszak Sara & Kristopher “Stew” Stewart Patricia Thomas & Russell Mecredy

VISIONARIES ($20,000-$29,000) Anonymous (2) Team Kammerer, Summit Funding Sandra & Philip Piele Dr. Averno & Wendlyn Rempel

RENEGADES ($10,000–$19,999) Bennett-Hooper Family Bicoastal Media Bronson Studios Downtown Athletic Club Stephanie Coats, DC Real Estate David & Sherrie Kammerer Vicky Mello Dianna & Todd Pounder

DESPERADOS ($5,000-$9,999) Summit Bank Deborah Basler & John Tamolinis Mary Bruskotter & John Thompson Stephanie & Ted Coopman Judy Grubbs & Barry Polonsky Shelton McMurphey Johnson House Silvan Ridge Winery Staszak Physical Therapy Steven Yett

Every effort has been made to ensure that this list is up to date as of 9/30/23. Please reach out to Ashley Bontrager to update us on any errors or omissions AND/OR to add your name to BFan's Secret Society: ashley@balletfantastique.org.

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 20

ROGUES ($1,000-$1,999) Sherry & Alan Bennett Alesong Brewing & Blending Polly & Brian Caughey Dawn Duerksen Chelsea & Jonathan Duke Sara Ferris Gordon Hotel Jill Hendrickson & Nathan Markowitz Michele Henney Carla Hoeger Marcy Hammock & Herbert Merker Paul Roth Annette Briggs & Scott South Drs. Barbara & James Walker Steve & Elaine Webster

— DONORS TO BALLET FANTASTIQUE — OUTLAWS ($500–$999) Patricia Ahlen Susan Anderson & Alexander Mathas Polly Ashworth & Robert Horner Victoria Blackman Hannah Bontrager & Jeff Mecredy Eugene Airport Gayle Faust Joy & Mark Gall Patricia & Dennis Hyatt Jillyn & Graham Kaiser Mary Hope O’Leary, gratitude to Clare & Alex Vonderhaar, contributing in her honor Cindy & Stephen Leonard Linda & Fred Meyer Gerald D Morgan, Jr. Elizabeth Ovitt Dr. Martha Reilly & Paul Brown Brandy Rodtsbrooks Mary Lou & Richard Rohl Sandra & Jerry South

ASSETS ($100-$499) Marti & Ken Alderfer Rose Marie & Mike Barber Giselle Barone & Adam Byrd Nancy & Jeffrey Beckwith Juliet Bender

Louise M Bishop & Jim Earl Lily Belle Bistro Liz Cawood Marta Cuboni The Gunnarson Family Birgit & Hugh Foley Susanne Fountain Summer & Travis Freeman Marissa Geoffrey & David Gibson Sandra Gill Kathy & Alan Haley Barbara & David Hascall Sylvia & Lew Hayse Steven Hecker Kathy & Mark Heerema Lola & Arlen Hershberger Pam & Bob Hess Lauren Hesse Diane Horvath-Pearson Gina & Al King Michael King Elizabeth Kramer Kathy & Eric Lieberman Zenia Liebman Jan Lintz Kathy Magnusson Sarah Maggio Joan & Gary Martin Malia Martin James Meadows Vicki Morgan & Mike Duran McKenna Morrigan

DAVE & SHERRIE KAMMERER

Barbara "Bee" Morris Barbara & Christer Mossberg Katie Murray Kathryn Nance Natalie S. Narvid Chris & Dave Nordenson New Twist Marietta & Ernest O'Byrne Laramie & Theodore W Palmer Rita Perini-Vance Roaring Rapids Pizza Letha & James Pontious Susan Ratzlaff Leigh A Rieder Richard Romm Cynthia Secrest & Douglas Pierce Bonnita Stahlberg Stephen Sunderlin Andréa Taggart & Mike Ricker Susan & Bahram Tavakolian Kelly Thomas Margaret Thornton The Timbers Inn Memory Tracy Shirley Vinson Christy Waters, MD Jennifer Webster

SUPPORT

ART YOU love.

donor spotlight

Our “why” is that we are deep believers in the power of art. We have a family legacy, and were both brought up with parents who care about the arts—who taught us that life is much more enriching and fulfilling when we have arts experiences.

We love what Ballet Fantastique does because we believe that BFan is an incredibly unique fusion of dance, music...even operatic storytelling. The storytelling is so special because it appeals to a broad audience and brings more people into awareness about the arts, a sense of belonging.

We also believe that when we have super talented makers in our community—like the Bontragers and the dancers and musicians they bring to the stage and the youth education they provide in the community—they need to be supported, encouraged to produce the work that they do. It’s a joy for us to see it, support it, and share it.

WORLD PREMIERE 2019 BALLET FANTASTIQUE // HULT CENTER, EUGENE OR

NevermoRE Edgar Allan Poe’s sun

concept, choreography, production DONNA MARISA + HANNAH BONTRAGER Inspired by the writings of Edgar Allan Poe (1809–1849) live music ELIZABETH DORMAN SERGEI TELESHEV DALE BRADLEY story, libretto DONNA MARISA + HANNAH BONTRAGER GENEVIEVE + DEBORAH SPEER arrangements for Ballet Fantastique NATHAN FARRINGTON music by PETER GUNDRY, LUCAS KING

Ashley Bontrager and Gustavo Ramirez in “Annabel Lee” | Bob Williams

PROGRAM

— CHOREOGRAPHERS’ NOTEBOOK —

In the shadowed annals of literary history, few names resonate as profoundly as that of Edgar Allan Poe. His words have woven a tapestry of mystery, intrigue, and eerie beauty that has captivated the imaginations of readers for generations. With his work, Poe not only influenced the minds of US presidents, international literary movements, and countless works of art, but he also carved an indelible path through the corridors of modern literature.

Yet, as is often the case with brilliant minds, Poe's life was fraught with enigma and controversy. His untimely demise, shrouded in mystery, was marked by a damning obituary penned by his one-time friend and literary executor, R.W. Griswold, which painted him as a drug-addled melancholic. This portrayal, published in the New York Times and echoed in papers across the nation, has unfairly colored the perception of Poe for generations.

Here, we are embarking on a journey to reclaim Poe's tales, not with words on paper, but through dance theater. His stories are worth retelling anew.

Poe's life was a tapestry woven from the threads of orphanhood, education, military service, and a marriage that carried its own peculiarities. Yet, his true passion lay not in the rigid confines of military duty but in the limitless realm of poetry and prose. His analytical mind, evident both in his creative works and his published critiques, attests to the depths of his literary prowess. As the creative minds behind Ballet Fantastique, we found in Poe's stories a perfect match for our artistic expression. Poe himself never aspired to mere utilitarianism in his writing; instead, he championed artistic idealism, employing the tools of pure aestheticism and literary formalism to craft something authentic and innovative. Through his masterful manipulation of language, he sought to convey, albeit imperfectly, a subjective truth and the essence of human existence.

Poe's work illuminates a path towards a deeper understanding of the complexity of our humanity. As Ballet Fantastique dancer Carolin Koepplin (originator of our role of “The Raven” in 2019), so aptly put it, “Not all ballets should be Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker, centered on princes and princesses with the expectation of a 'happily ever after.' Sometimes, you need someone to sit with you in the dark." (”Quoth the Raven,” indeed.)

Welcome to our world of Nevermore: Stories of Edgar Allan Poe. Prepare to be enthralled, transported, and immersed in the enigmatic beauty of Poe's tales, as we take you on a journey through the mysterious realms of his imagination.

Donna & Hannah

DONNA & HANNAH BONTRAGER BFAN CHOREOGRAPHER-PRODUCERS

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 23

— STORY GUIDE —

ACT 1 CAST Prospero Joshua Webb Princesses Isabelle Bloodgood Ashley Bontrager Mimes Brooke Geffrey-Bowler, Jenavieve Hernandez Tavari Groesbeck Ladies Ana Brooks, Elizabeth Chapa, Madeline Kiesel, Phobe Wind Paupers Tylee Alfery, Julieann Maylyn (Academy of Campbell, Penelope Chase, Beau Ballet Grimes, Kayleigh Jordan, Bella Fantastique) Preston, Emelia Stewart Zo Zinke-Haschemeyer (BFan Adult Abigail Liebing, Chelsea Lovejoy, Program) Sophia Hiestand, Rebecca Welch Red Death Gustavo Ramirez Specters Hannah Bontrager, Raymond Silos

CAST Poet Preston Andrew Patterson Lenore Jenavieve Hernandez Raven Ana Brooks

CAST Gargoyles Elizabeth Chapa, Madeline Kiesel Edgar Josh Webb Roderick Gustavo Ramirez Madeline Hannah Bontrager Maids/ Brooke Geffrey-Bowler, Keepers Jenavieve Hernandez

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 24

NevermoRE Edgar Allan Poe’s MASQUE OF THE RED DEATH (PUBLISHED 1842) Our audience finds themselves in the midst of the Red Death, which has long devastated our country— with blood as its avatar and its seal. But Prince Prospero is happy and dauntless and sagacious.

While his dominions are half depopulated, he summons to his presence his hale and light-hearted friends from among the nobles of his kingdom to his castellated abbeys, where they will lock themselves in and away from the peasants and the Red Death for a ball of unusual magnificence, proceeding through many entertainments and into many colored rooms, one after the next.

Scenes TO THE CASTLE Derecho Veijo A BALL OF UNUSUAL MAGNIFICENCE Prince & Princesses Propero’s Waltz The Music Box Dance Macabre Night of the Damned PRINCE PROSPERO COSTUME SPONSOR: DEBBY & JOHN PHILLIPS

Join your fellow revelers now, in the Red Room.

THE RAVEN (PUBLISHED 1845) “The Raven” tells of a talking Raven’s mysterious visit to a distraught lover, tracing the Poet’s slow fall into madness. It was beloved by Lincoln, who carried a worn copy of it in his pocket on speech tours of the US in the final years of the Civil War. FALL OF THE HOUSE OF USHER (PUBLISHED 1839) Scene 1 // Edgar, our narrator, has received a letter from his boyhood friend, Roderick Usher, telling of a disease of the mind, asking for help. It is known by all that year over year, only one member of the House of Usher survives. Arriving, Edgar is greeted by the Keepers, who lead him through the dark rooms of the fallen mansion.

Scene 2 // Roderick, has not left the House in years. He tells Edgar of his fear that he will die, attributing part of his illness his sister, Madeline’s, catalepsy—she is consumed with frequent seizures where she appears temporarily immobilized.

Scenes IN THE POET’S MIND Gnossienne No. 3, No. 1 The Nightmare Insanity The Raven

Scenes TO THE HOUSE Mansion of Gloom A SPECTRAL SCENE Meeting Roderick Nausea Mischievous Minds White Spectre Sealed Kingdom

— STORY GUIDE — Scene 3 // Roderick and Madeline are twins and share some sort of deep and supernatural, probably extrasensory, bond. Roderick is certain that Madeline will also soon die. Edgar tries to cheer them with music, dances, memories of the old times. The House of Usher is powerfully sentient. The Ushers see things that others cannot. Madeline dances in the parlor and then—as Roderick predicted, and as he now declares, she dies. Roderick asks Edgar to help him entomb her body deep in the walls and catacombs of the mansion.

Scene 4 // A week later—Roderick and Usher wish away the stormy night by reading. As Edgar reads the text aloud, the sounds from the story they read can be heard resounding from below the mansion. Roderick becomes increasingly possessed with even more fear—he is convinced that they have buried Madeline alive—and that she is coming back.

ACT 2

intermission—20 mins

CAST

The Poet Gustavo Ramirez Annabel Lee Ashley Bontrager Lead Seraphs Brooke Geffrey-Bowler, Jenavieve Hernandez Seraphs Ana Brooks, Elizabeth Chapa, Madeline Kiesel, Phoebe Wind

CAST Montresor Contessa Fortunato Lady in Red Revelers

Preston Andrew Patterson Isabelle Bloodgood Gustavo Ramirez Hannah Bontrager Ana Brooks, Ashley Bontrager, Brooke Geffrey-Bowler, Elizabeth Chapa, Jenavieve Hernandez, Madeline Kiesel, Phoebe Wind

ANNABEL LEE (PUBLISHED 1849) “Annabel Lee” is the last complete poem composed by Poe. Like many of Poe’s poems, it explores the theme of the death of a beautiful woman. Debate continues over who, if anyone, was the inspiration for “Annabel Lee.” Though many women have been suggested, Poe’s wife Virginia Eliza Clemm Poe is one of the more credible candidates. Written in 1849, it was not published until shortly after Poe’s death that same year.

Scenes

CASK OF AMONTILLADO (PUBLISHED 1846)

Scenes

Scene 1 // We imagine the narrator, Montresor, on his deathbed. He has written to the Contessa, his lover of many years, to bid her come hear his confession.

PRESENT DAY: MONTRESSOR’S DEATHBED Til Death Do Us Part

Scene 2 // Montresor takes us back in time, many years ago in the madness of Venetian Carnival—when Fortunato, Montresor’s friend, was the life of the party. Montresor tells that he maintained an appearance of good will towards Fortunato...but had vowed vengeance for a grievance we will never know. Montresor lures Fortunato into the city’s underground tombs with the promise to taste an imported Amontillado wine. They bid goodbye to the Lady, and Montresor leads Fortunato through the streets.

FLASHBACK: CARNIVAL— STREETS OF VENICE, YEARS PRIOR Valse Polonaise: 2046 & Reprise Valse for Katya Valse Masquerade

Scene 3 // Montresor leads Fortunato to a small, deep crypt, the end of which is lined with human remains. The light from the lantern is dim. Montresor claims the niche to be the location of the Amontillado. Fortunato stumbles inside; then Montresor ties Fortunato up. Montresor next begins to wall in the niche, with Fortunato inside. Fortunato revives with a moan, laughing weakly, “For the love of God, Montresor!” The latter mocks him. Fortunato ceases to speak. Montresor reconstructs the pile of bones and returns to the party on the street. He tells us that no mortal has disturbed the stones for the last fifty years. In pace requiescat.

NEAR THE OCEAN Prologue Kingdom by the Sea Last of Her Kind Desolation

DESCENT INTO THE CELLAR Masquerade of Ghosts STREET WALTZ/FINALE Tales of the Night

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 25

ELIZABETH DORMAN

— NEVERMORE GUEST ARTISTS —

SERGEI TELESHEV

EDUCATION: Stony Brook University (PhD) EXPERIENCE: A finalist of the 2018 Leipzig International Bach Competition, Elizabeth has been widely recognized as a leading performer for her inquisitive interpretations of Bach’s music on the modern piano. Elizabeth has appeared as soloist with orchestras including the Louisville Orchestra, the Leipzig Mendelssohn Chamber Orchestra, the Santa Rosa Symphony, the San Francisco Symphony Youth Orchestra, the Folsom Lake Symphony, the Stanford Summer Symphony, Symphony Parnassus, as a soloist for interdisciplinary projects at New World Symphony, and as a keyboardist at the San Francisco Symphony. Her live solo performances have been nationally broadcast on NPR and public radio.

CELLO, ARRANGEMENTS EDUCATION: UO School of Music EXPERIENCE: Dale is a longtime member of Eugene Symphony, and a founding member of Oregon Mozart Players. Dale’s compositions and arrangements have been played in various venues on the West Coast including the LA Philharmonic. He teaches throughout the city, with multiple CDs as well as a recording studio.

ACCORDION, ARRANGEMENTS EDUCATION: Academy of Music in Voronezh, Russia EXPERIENCE: Sergei has won many regional and international accordion competitions.

As a founding member and accordion player of Trio Voronezh, Classic Klezmer Trio, Valinor Quartet and East-West International Project, he collaborates with many internationally recognized artists, ensembles and orchestras. Sergei has performed with renowned orchestras and performers like the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Doc Severinsen, Halie Loren, Semmy Stahlhammer and many others.

DALE BRADLEY

LIZ’S BFAN PERFORMANCE IS SUPPORTED BY: DAVE & SHERRIE KAMMERER POLLY ASHWORTH & ROB HORNER MAYLIAN PAK & DR. MATT SHAPIRO BRANDY RODTSBROOKS BRITTANY QUICK-WARNER LIZ CAWOOD

PIANO

ORIGINAL ARRANGEMENTS BY NATHAN FARRINGTON (LA OPERA) FOR THIS BFAN PERFORMANCE

ALASTAIR MORLEY JAQUES

EDGAR ALLAN POE Alastair studied theatre arts and American literature at the Evergreen State College and the University of Oregon. He has appeared in venues all along the West Coast and as far as Chicago in a variety of roles in addition to working as a voiceover artist and historical interpreter. For over a decade, Alastair has had a special relationship with the life, work, and artistic legacy of Edgar Allan Poe, having performed as America's master of the macabre in dozens of theatrical performances, live recitations, and historical seminars. Alastair is honored and overjoyed to once again appear alongside Ballet Fantastique to experience and to be a part of the haunting, transcendent, otherworldly, and unforgettable artistic experience that is ​Nevermore.

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 26

Alastair Morley Jaques in BFan’s Nevermore | Greg Burns

— NEVERMORE PRODUCTION TEAM — FOUNDING ARTISTIC DIRECTOR, VISIONARY Donna Marisa Bontrager CHOREOGRAPHER-PRODUCERS Donna Marisa Bontrager, Hannah Bontrager ORIGINAL MUSIC ARRANGEMENTS FOR BFAN Nathan Farrington (LA) COMPOSERS Amy Danzinger (Eugene), Peter Gundry (Australia), Lucas King (UK)—with classics by Sergei Rachmaninoff, Erik Satie, Camille Saint-Saëns, Aram Khachaturian RESEARCH, LIBRETTO TEAM Donna & Hannah Bontrager, Deborah & Genevieve Speer NARRATOR/POE Alastair Morley Jaques THEATRE/ACTING CONSULTANT Jeany Snider COMPANY COACHING SUPPORT Nicole Brown A S S I S T A N T S T O T H E P R O D U C E R S Elizabeth Chapa, Phoebe Green

COSTUME DESIGN VISION COSTUME Donna Marisa Bontrager COSTUME TEAM Allison Ditson/Allihalla, Sam Fox, Noelle Guetti, Jonna Hayden, Primadonna Tutus, support from Sarah Preston, paupers with gratitude to Eugene Opera HEADPIECES, JEWELRY Mitra Gruwell, Gabriel Ritzmann, Andréa Taggart WARDROBE SUPERVISOR Sam Fox SET DESIGN VISION Donna + Hannah Bontrager SETS DESIGN, PAINTING, BUILD, MAGIC Mike Ricker, Kelle DeForrest, Debora Peña SET/PROPS/EVENTS SUPPORT Kimberly Grimes, David Snider, Joshua Whitley, Dylan Wilcox LIGHTING DESIGN 2019 Donna Marisa Bontrager, Caroline Barnes LIGHTING DESIGNER 2023 Michael Peterson PRODUCTION MANAGERS Hannah Bontrager STAGE MANAGER JP Durand with Liza Carbé PROMO VIDEO Jeremy Bronson/Bronson Studios PROMO PHOTOGRAPHY PERFORMANCE Bob Williams VIDEO + LIVESTREAM Jeremy Bronson OUTREACH & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Jeany Snider YOUTH CAST COACH Brooke Geffrey-Bowler YOUTH CAST COORDINATOR Sara Stewart MARKETING Hannah Bontrager, Isabelle Bloodgood, Gilmore Group HOSPITALITY SUPPORT Dianna Pounder, Deborah Basler & John Tamolinis, Maylian Pak & Dr. Matt Shapiro PROGRAM DESIGN Hannah Bontrager FRONT OF HOUSE MANAGER Monica Piper

FEATURING ORIGINAL COMMISSIONS FROM NW + WORLDWIDE ARTISTS

A note on BFan's artistic process: Ballet Fantastique collaborates and weaves our work in partnership with our artists. Just as each of our makers contributed their own personality to each final set piece, headpiece, and costume inspired by our vision and conversations, each dancer in our ballet contributed to the development and movement of their characters. We continue to be (so) inspired by our incredible team and thankful to the dancers of Ballet Fantastique for their choreographic and artistic inspiration and many contributions! Additionally, we would like to recognize BFan artists Ashley Bontrager and Gustavo Ramirez (”Spring Waltz” and “Desolation”) and Nicole Brown, who contributed movement that shaped the piece "Angels Reprise.”

O F F I C I A L W O R K O U T C L U B O F T H E B A L L E T F A N T A S T I Q U E C O M P A N Y.

GA L A 8TH ANNUAL WINTER GALA

1

D E C

PRESENTED BY

ALPHA IT

QSL

THIS SEASON IS MADE POSSIBLE THANKS TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR SEASON TITLE SPONSOR

23-24 POINTE SHOE SPONSOR FOR THE WOMEN OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE

y r e v e h t n Stay iof Eugene heart

Dianna Pounder

23–24 LADIES’ NIGHT SERIES SPONSOR Summit Bank

OFFICIAL WINERY OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE Silvan Ridge Winery Elizabeth’s Wine Lounge

OFFICIAL PHYSICAL THERAPISTS & TRAINERS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE Staszak Physical Therapy

OFFICIAL WORKOUT CLUB OF THE BALLET FANTASTIQUE COMPANY The Downtown Athletic Club

OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER Bicoastal Media

OFFICIAL SEASON AFTER-PARTY MIXER HOSTS Alesong on 5th

OTHER MAJOR SUPPORT

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Invest in the careers of our powerful artists By offering your support, you not only empower the artistry and athleticism you see tonight, but also receive: listing alongside dancer’s bio pre- and post-performance events to meet the artist and other BFan patrons backstage tours and receptions regular updates on your sponsored dancer

— ARTISTS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

"A bold, cross-disciplinary dance company...filled with virtuosos...insanely talented"

principals

—DANTE ZUÑIGA-WEST, EUGENE WEEKLY

ASHLEY BONTRAGER

HOMETOWN: Buffalo, NY BFAN: Founding BFan Principal Dancer, favorite role Cleopatra* in the world premiere of Cleopatra TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Buffalo City Ballet, Conservatory of Classical Dance, Ballet Fantastique SPONSORED BY: DAVE & SHERRIE KAMMERER

HANNAH BONTRAGER HOMETOWN: Eugene, OR BFAN: Founding BFan Principal Dancer, favorite role Alice* in the world premiere of Alice in Wonderland: Remix TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Buffalo City Ballet, Conservatory of Classical Dance, Ballet Fantastique, Kirov Academy, Colorado Ballet, Manassas Ballet Theatre SPONSOR HANNAH

ISABELLE BLOODGOOD HOMETOWN: Los Angeles, CA BFAN: Joined BFan in 2020 as Soloist; promoted to Principal Dancer in 2023; favorite role Estrella in Cirque de la Lune TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Los Angeles Ballet Academy, Walnut Hill School of the Arts, Butler University, Central Illinois Ballet, San Diego Ballet SPONSORED BY: THE BENNETT-HOOPER FAMILY

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 32

Photos: Artists of Ballet Fantastique | Bob Williams | Edited by Gustavo Ramirez

PROUD 23-24 SEASON MEDIA SPONSOR OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE'S NEW CLASSIC ART

— ARTISTS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

PRESTON ANDREW PATTERSON

principals

HOMETOWN: Atlanta, GA BFAN: Featured BFan Guest Artist since 2014; joined BFan as a Principal Dancer in 2023; favorite role Ichabod Crane in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Tom Tom, the Piper’s Son in Babes in Toyland TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Balletethnic Academy of Dance, University of North Carolina School of the Arts, National Ballet School of Canada, Ballet Austin SPONSOR PRESTON

GUSTAVO RAMIREZ HOMETOWN: Cali, Colombia BFAN: Joined BFan in 2016 as a Principal Dancer; favorite role Marc Anthony* in the world premiere of Cleopatra TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Colombian Institute for Classical Ballet (Incolballet), Gelsey Kirkland Ballet SPONSOR GUS

JOSHUA WEBB HOMETOWN: Dronfield, UK BFAN: Joined BFan as a Principal Dancer in 2023 after guesting in BFan’s 2022 Babes in Toyland TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: San Diego Ballet, English Youth Ballet, Ajkun Ballet Theatre, Florida Classical Ballet, Varna State Opera Ballet SPONSOR JOSH

FULL BIOS HERE >>

BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 34

*ORIGINATED ROLE

D

— ARTISTS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

soloists

NICOLE BROWN

HOMETOWN: Lakeville, MN BFAN: Joined BFan in 2022 as a Soloist; favorite role Queen Anne in (The Misadventures of) Casanova TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Ballet Royale Minnesota, St. Paul Ballet, Ballet CoLaboratory, Hatch Dance, Honeyworks SPONSOR NICOLE

JENAVIEVE HERNANDEZ HOMETOWN: Spokane, WA BFAN: Joined BFan in 2018 as a Fellowship Apprentice; promoted to Senior Apprentice in 2019; Corps in 2020; Artist in 2021; Soloist in 2022; favorite role Lenore in Nevermore: Stories of Edgar Allan Poe TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Ballet Idaho Academy, Spokane Academy of Dance, Ballet Idaho, Boise Dance Co-op, Project Flux, Idaho Dance Theater SPONSORED BY: ANONYMOUS

RAYMOND SILOS HOMETOWN: Honolulu, HI BFAN: Featured guest artist since 2012; officially joined the BFan Company in 2023; favorite role Ansel the Amazing* in the world premiere of Cirque de la Lune TRAINING& PERFORMANCE: Cirque du Soleil, Cirque Dreams, Walt Disney World, guest artist on ABC's All my Children, Royal Ballet of Celebration, Honolulu Dance & Opera Theater, Ioana Contemporary Dance SPONSOR RAY

*ORIGINATED ROLE

FANTASTIQUE | 35 H O M E T O W N : H e r t f o r d s hBALLET ire, U K

— ARTISTS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

artists

ANA BROOKS

HOMETOWN: Salt Lake City, UT BFAN: Joined BFan Corps in 2022; promoted to Artist in 2023; favorite role Cecily* in the world premiere of Robin Hood & Maid Marian TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Ballet West, Brigham Young University SPONSOR ANA

BROOKE GEFFREY-BOWLER HOMETOWN: Spokane, WA BFAN: Since 2022, favorite role The Keeper in Nevermore: Stories of Edgar Allan Poe TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Spokane Academy of Dance, Gonzaga University, Fort Wayne Ballet, University of Utah, Ballethnic Dance Company, #instaballet SPONSOR BROOKE

TAVARI GROESBECK HOMETOWN: Eugene, OR BFAN: Joined 2023, favorite role Mime in Nevermore: Stories of Edgar Allan Poe TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: All That Dance Company, Upstart Crow Company, Eugene Ballet Academy, Summer Dance Lab, Northwest Dance Project, Utah Balroom Dance Company, Legacy Theater SPONSOR TAVARI

FULL BIOS HERE >> *ORIGINATED ROLE BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 37

— ARTISTS OF BALLET FANTASTIQUE —

corps

ELIZABETH CHAPA

MADELINE KIESEL

HOMETOWN: Barrington, IL BFAN: Joined BFan Corps in 2023 TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Joffrey Academy of Ballet, A&A Ballet, Butler University

HOMETOWN: Hanover Park, IL BFAN: Joined BFan as Senior Apprentice in 2022; promoted to Corps in 2023; favorite role Guard* in the world premiere of Robin Hood & Maid Marian TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Faubourg School of Ballet, Ruth Page School of Dance, NASD

SPONSOR LIZ

LUCY PEARCE

SPONSOR MADELINE

PHOEBE WIND

HOMETOWN: Hertfordshire, UK BFAN: Joined BFan as Corps in 2023 TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: West London School of Dance, Kings International Ballet Academy, Brecon Festival Ballet, United Ballet Theatre SPONSOR LUCY

HOMETOWN: Dummerston, VT Joined BFan as Apprentice in 2017; promoted to Senior Apprentice in 2018; promoted to Corps in 2023; favorite role Bird* in the world premiere of ARRIVALS: RIO TRAINING & PERFORMANCE: Brattlebro School of Dance, Nashville Ballet, Albany Berkshire Ballet Theatre SPONSOR PHOEBE

FULL BIOS HERE >> BALLET FANTASTIQUE | 38