City News

Arabian National Breeder Finals Returns to Scottsdale

Unique, complimentary event to showcase the world’s top Arabian horses.

Photos courtesy of the Arabian Horse Association

THE ARABIAN HORSE ASSOCIATION OF ARIZONA PROUDLY ANNOUNCES THE MUCH-ANTICIPATED RETURN OF THE ARABIAN NATIONAL BREEDER FINALS AT THE EQUIDOME OF WESTWORLD IN SCOTTSDALE. SCHEDULED FROM WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 13 TO SATURDAY, SEPT. 16, THIS PREMIER EVENT PROMISES TO SPOTLIGHT THE PINNACLE OF ARABIAN HORSE BREEDING IN AN UNPARALLELED SETTING.

“We eagerly anticipate the 2023 Arabian National Breeder Finals and warmly welcome the international Arabian community and enthusiasts,” says Melissa Schalles, executive director of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona. “This boutique-style horse event encompasses both breeding and performance competitions. It’s an excellent spectacle for those unfamiliar with Arabian horses, ensuring entertainment for both longtime aficionados and newcomers to the equine world.”

Conceived from an enduring passion for the Arabian horse, the Arabian National Breeder Finals provides a thrilling platform for these majestic animals to compete. This year’s event will emphasize an elite halter/ breeding showcase, promising prize money, prestige, and unparalleled opportunities for breeders and Arabian horse lovers. With up to 300 horses vying for the top spot, this competition stands out as the equine equivalent of the Westminster dog show.

The finals encompass diverse performances or “classes.” Participants include some of the world’s best Arabian and halter horses, competing for over $85,000 in prize money and the much-coveted title of “Finals Champion.” Schalles adds, “The array of classes this year is particularly exciting. The Liberty Class showcases horses running free, riderless in the arena. The Weanlings Class spotlights horses aged between 3 to 6 months. And, of course, the Performance and Arabian Native Costume Classes never fail to captivate the audience.”

Beneficiaries of the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona’s charitable endeavors include the Arabian Horsemen’s Distress Fund, Healing Hearts Animal Rescue and Refuge, Hoofbeatz USA, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, March of Dimes, Scottsdale Community College Equine Science program, and Youth for Troops, among others.

The event will also feature exhibitors presenting jewelry, clothing, equestrian art, and a variety of food and beverages. The Arabian National Breeder Finals takes place at the Equidome at WestWorld, located at 16601 N. Pima Rd. in Scottsdale. Entry is complimentary. For more details, visit scottsdaleshow.com.

Ballet Under the Stars 2023 to Enchant with a Graceful Night Out

Photo courtesy of Ballet Arizona

THIS MONTH, THE COMMUNITY IS SET TO EXPERIENCE AN ARTISTIC TREAT AS BALLET UNDER THE STARS RETURNS, OFFERING A RANGE OF DELIGHTFUL DANCE PERFORMANCES TO VALLEY RESIDENTS. Kicking off Ballet Arizona’s 2023-2024 season, the events promise to be spectacular evenings for families.

Set against the backdrop of Arizona’s pristine evenings, residents and visi- tors can enjoy a mixed repertoire that blends the elegance of classical ballet with the energy of contemporary dance. Attendees are encouraged to bring along blankets or lawn chairs, creating a comfortable viewing experience under the shimmering night sky.

Highlighting the event’s commitment to the community, Ballet Under the Stars remains free and open to the public. Its unique open-air format, complete with professional stage setups, lighting, and costumes, offers an opportunity for everyone, from young children to seniors, to experience the magic of ballet. For those introducing their children to the art form, this event serves as a perfect first glimpse into the world of dance.

For those attending, the organizers have put together a list of tips to enhance the Ballet Under the Stars experience that include: bring a folding chair or blankets to sit on; bring your own picnic or nosh on some local food truck eats; rideshare; arrive early to get the best spot; bring a good light source for after the show; and smartphones are encouraged (because if you post on your Instagram story or feed and tag @balletarizona, you could win tickets to an upcoming Ballet Arizona production).

HERE ARE THE UPCOMING PERFORMANCE DETAILS ACROSS THE VALLEY:

• Saturday, Sept. 23 at Sahuaro Ranch

Historic Park, 9802 N. 59th Ave

Glendale

• Thursday, Sept. 28 at Fountain Park, 12925 N. Saguaro Blvd Fountain Hills

• Friday, Sept. 29 at Estrella Lakeside

Amphitheater, 10300 Estrella Pkwy, Goodyear

• Saturday, Sept. 30 at Steele Indian School Park, 300 E Indian School Rd., Phoenix

Each performance commences at 7 p.m.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship by The Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation, Ballet Under the Stars 2023 continues its tradition of making ballet accessible and enjoyable to all. Arizona communities are set to have their spirits uplifted by this dance extravaganza, which promises to be a memorable evening of art, culture, and community bonding.

For more information, visit balletaz.org/ ballet-under-the-stars.