New Orleans Ballet Association - 2023-2024 Program

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EDITOR Ashley McLellan ART DIRECTOR Ali Sullivan DIGITAL DIRECTOR Rosa Balaguer SENIOR PRODUCTION DESIGNER Meghan Rooney PRODUCTION DESIGNER Ashley Pemberton

ON THE COVER: Complexions Contemporary Ballet in Star Dust, performed in New Orleans in 2017.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Brooke LeBlanc Brooke@MyNewOrleans.com CEO Todd Matherne

PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE.

Table of Contents 6

Welcome from NOBA

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A Message from New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell

26 Dance & Arts Healing Through the Generations 28 Summer Programs for Youth

10 Board of Directors and Staff

30 Master Artist Series

12 NOBA Will...

32 NOBA Faculty

14 Season of Dance

39 Welcome from BRAVO

16 Complexions Contemporary Ballet

40 BRAVO's Annual Gala

18 Compañia Nacional De Danza

42 Prix d’Elegance Awards Luncheon

20 Les Ballets De Monte Carlo

44 Institutional Investors

22 Parsons Dance

48 Individual Donors

24 Bringing Dance Into the Community

56 Nutcracker Legacy Fund & Commemorative Giving 58 Invest in the Future

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The 2023-24 New Orleans Ballet Association program is produced for the New Orleans Ballet Association by Renaissance Publishing, LLC New Orleans Ballet Association 935 Gravier St., Suite 800 New Orleans, La 70112 504-522-0996 www.NOBAdance.com Copyright 2023 New Orleans Ballet Association and Renaissance Publishing, LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. © New Orleans Ballet Association

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Welcome to NOBA’s 51st Season of Bringing Dance to Life!

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ur warmest welcome to you to the 2023-24 season of dance!

Building on the tremendous success of last year’s sensational season, you will be enchanted, surprised and delightfully entertained with this year’s roster of spectacular performances.

In October, we continue NOBA’s commitment to commissioning new work through our pairing of Complexions Contemporary Ballet Artistic Director Dwight Rhoden with New Orleans native Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott) in a world premiere. This will be NOBA’s 7th Choreographer/ NOLA Musician Commission Initiative project. Created in 2007, the initiative produces collaborations between internationally renowned choreographers and New Orleans musicians, further providing exposure and visibility for our city’s incredible musical talent as these choreographic works become part of company’s worldwide touring repertoires.

We are honored to welcome the national companies of Spain and Monaco, bringing the North American premiere of Compañia Nacional de Danza’s program of Spanish choreographers and the only presentation in the nation of Les Ballets de Monte Carlo’s LAC, Artistic Director JeanChristophe Maillot’s innovative retelling of Swan Lake. Closing the season, we join Parsons Dance in celebrating the extraordinary life and legacy of a New Orleans icon with the 10th anniversary restaging of Whirlaway, first commissioned by NOBA and premiered in 2014 with Parsons Dance and the Allen Toussaint Orchestra and to be paid homage by Reginald Toussaint and the Allen Toussaint Orchestra.

Off stage, with partnerships grounded in a common mission, collaboration and trust, we begin the 32nd year of serving the community through our tuition-free programs for ages 4-80+. Ever evolving to meet the needs and demands of our families, this season, through a partnership with the City of New Orleans’ Office of Workforce Development, we proudly announce a groundbreaking dance industry program. Youth in the NORD/ NOBA Center for Dance will receive paid development experiences rooted in the foundational aspects of culture and creativity working on a strengthsbased, paradigm shifting platform for young dancers to foster the potential they bring to any workplace. New programs for teens – Rise and In Motion – will empower students to explore realities, relationships and ideas through the art of dance. Through the Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program and the Senior Dance Fitness Program, dance is utilized daily to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens.

None of this would be possible without the tireless effort, compassion and dedication of so many throughout the community. This year, we celebrate the 35th Anniversary of BRAVO, the Ballet Resource And Volunteer Organization, founded in 1989 by Phyllis Taylor to provide critical resources to further NOBA’s mission. For their leadership and unprecedented belief and investment in this organization, we extend our deepest gratitude to the BRAVO Presidents and members, as well as to NOBA’s Board of Directors, Men and Women of Fashion, and our staff.

To every one of you – our audience members, subscribers, donors, volunteers and partners – we humbly thank you for your support, for sharing our vision and passion and for joining us on this journey. Let’s celebrate as we unite in the sheer joy of dancing!

Gregory Curtis Board Chair

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Jenny Hamilton Executive Director

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A Message from New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell

As the Mayor of the City of New Orleans, I would like to congratulate the New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) on another remarkable season and 32 years of partnership with the New Orleans Recreation Development (NORD) Commission and the City. NOBA, in collaboration with NORD, continues to provide an internationally renowned program that offers exceptional opportunities for all residents by serving our families in neighborhood centers throughout the city.

Since its inception in 1992, the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance has made an impact on this community by offering over 31,000 participants tuition free programs, investing an estimated $9 million in our communities. Beginning as early as age four, a child can enter NORD facilities and receive the highest quality training needed to pursue a career in dance. Since 2008, senior citizens have received health and wellness benefits from NOBA’s Senior Dance Fitness Program, and adults have access weekly to master classes.

My administration remains committed to the growth and investment in this innovative program through partnerships with the Office of Workforce Development and other entities, and offering classes this fall at the recently opened Desire/Florida Multi-Service Center.

Lastly, the dedication, generosity, and vision of the staff are a testament to their level of support for our people and their families through the power of dance and movement. I thank each of you for showing up day in and day out and acknowledge the many funders for their donations and belief in this partnership.

Sincerely,

“The dedication, generosity, and vision of the staff are a testament to their level of support for our people and their families through the power of dance and movement” –Mayor LaToya Cantrell

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LaToya Cantrell

Mayor, City of New Orleans

Board of Directors CHAIR Gregory Curtis VICE CHAIRS Chad Berg Sandra Stage Chaisson Monique Gougisha Doucette Cynthia LeBreton SECRETARY Steven A. Friedman TREASURER Cathy M. Green IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR Dottie Belletto LIFETIME MEMBERS Jacquelyn B. Clarkson M. Cécile Gibson Henrietta Ramirez Hall Dr. Bernard M. Jaffe Dr. E. Ralph Lupin* Nancy O’Connell* Phyllis M. Taylor Janée M. Tucker Betty Wisdom*

MEMBERS Charlotte Bollinger Tiffa Boutté Guy P. Brierre Stephanie Burks Jacquee Carvin Rosalyn Ditta John M. Duck Terry A. DuFrene Ann Duplessis Elizabeth Ellison-Frost Laurie Guimont Teresa Guzzetta Mary Lakey Henry M. Lambert Willis A. Lovell Max Moreno Camille Patti Holly S. Popham Marilyn Smith Toni Van Zandt Constance Willems Pamela M. Williams

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*deceased

1. Front (l to r): Laurie Guimont, Teresa Guzzetta, Toni Van Zandt, Rosalyn Ditta Back (l to r): Terry Dufrene, Gregory Curtis 2. Tiffa Boutté, Max Moreno, Stephanie Burks, Willis A. Lovell, Marilyn Smith 3. Elizabeth Ellison Frost, Monique Doucette, John Duck, Camille Patti, Cathy Green 4. Front (l to r): Mary Lakey, Pamela Williams, Dottie Belletto, Cynthia LeBreton Back (l to r): Steven Friedman, Chad Berg 5. Holly Popham, Guy Brierre, Sandra Chaisson

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Staff FINANCE Hymel & Ready

BOX OFFICE/AUDIENCE SERVICES Wanda W. Fulton

GRAPHIC DESIGN Lauren Faustermann

CENTER FOR DANCE/EDUCATION Millette White-Lin Corey Melancon Chloe Roberts, Intern

PHOTOGRAPHY Jeff Strout

DEVELOPMENT/EVENTS Francesca Martin Chris Frerichs TECHNICAL/WARDROBE Joan Long MARKETING/PUBLIC RELATIONS Maxwell Bolton PETERMAYER 10

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TECHNOLOGY Courant VIDEOGRAPHY Bruce France WEBSITE Annunciation Interactive

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PHOTOS TAKEN AT THE WINDSOR COURT BY JEFF STROUT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jenny R. Hamilton

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New Orleans Ballet Association

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ounded in 1969, the New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) cultivates understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of dance through performance, education and community service. NOBA’s dynamic programs position it as a leading dance and service organization throughout the region and a unique, national model dedicated solely to dance.

IN 2023-24, NOBA WILL . . .

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PRODUCE

50+ extraordinary concerts featuring more than 2,000 artists 8 dance companies as artists in residence 80+ pre-professional students in performance on local and national stages during the school year & summer 2 arts healing programs at 5 locations – Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program and the Senior Dance Fitness Program

TRAIN

2,000 students ages 4-80+

PROVIDE

100+ weekly tuition-free classes and activities at up to 20 neighborhood sites 5,500+ tuition-free dance classes and activities annually 75,000+ contact hours with participants of education programs 40+ local artists’ employment and professional development

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ENRICH

33,000 dance enthusiasts through more than 5,500 services

New Orleans Ballet Association 935 Gravier Street, Suite 800 New Orleans, LA 70112 T (504) 522-0996 F (504) 595-8454 www.NOBAdance.com

1. Complexions Contemporary Ballet artist April Watson. PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE 2. Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program participants enjoy a class at the New Orleans JCC. PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN 3. NOBA Early Childhood ballet student at St. Bernard Rec. Center. PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN

Follow us @nobadance on

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Season at a Glance2023-24 COMPLEXIONS CONTEMPORARY BALLET with Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott) SAT | OCT 21 | 7:30PM “Complexions is the ultimate American contemporary dance company. The choreography, choices, dancers, and collaborators are diverse, raw, vulnerable, honest, emotional, proud, a bit haughty and full of attitude.”

—Broadway World

Hailed as a “matchless American dance company” by the Philadelphia Inquirer, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, led by the legendary Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, has captivated audiences for nearly three decades with their singular approach of reinventing dance and contemporary ballet. This jaw-dropping evening includes work performed with the legendary music of Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott).

PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE

COMPAÑIA NACIONAL DE DANZA SAT | JAN 20 | 7:30PM Compañia Nacional de Danza (CNdD), Spain’s premier, national dance company, returns after 22 years for a rare New Orleans engagement. Led by Artistic Director Joaquín De Luz, a world-renowned past principal dancer with New York City Ballet, CNdD wows the Crescent City with a North American premiere of mixed repertoire that embraces classical to avant-garde styles and reflects its own identity and history of excellence. “The energy and commitment of the company’s dancers … made it impossible not to like.” (CriticalDance Magazine).

“The show ends with me still at the edge of my seat.”

—The Ballet Herald

PHOTO BY AL BIRU

LES BALLETS DE MONTE CARLO – LAC (SWAN LAKE) SAT | MAR 2 | 7:30PM “This version of [Swan] Lake is a turning point in the history of dance, a soaring feat of almost lyrical proportions, with room still for restraint and nuance. It will undoubtedly remain a dazzling memory for all.”

—Le Figaro (France)

PHOTO BY ALICE BLANGERO

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Les Ballets de Monte Carlo makes its triumphant return with LAC, Artistic Director Jean-Christophe Maillot’s visually stunning retelling of Swan Lake—the only scheduled performance of the masterpiece in the nation. Within a labyrinth of dramatic twists and turns, this ravishing stage production is a psychological thriller of epic proportions that upends our expectations and brings “Swan Lake into the 21st century without losing the essence of the fairy tale at its heart." (Orange County Register)

PARSONS DANCE with The Allen Toussaint Orchestra SAT | APR 20 | 7:30PM “This is a dance your heart out (at all times, no excuses) kind of enterprise.”

—The New York Times

Hailed by the Toronto Star as “one of the hottest tickets in contemporary dance,” the always-popular Parsons Dance company returns to take your breath away with its brand of joyous, high-voltage dances. Led by Artistic Director and prolific dance-maker David Parsons, the company brings a tailor-made program that includes signature works like Caught, Swing Shift, and the critically acclaimed work Whirlaway to a soundtrack of Allen Toussaint hits performed by Reginald Toussaint and The Allen Toussaint Orchestra.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDREW ECCLES

THE NUTCRACKER SUITE SUN | DEC 3, 2023 | 3PM & 6PM | Dixon Hall, Tulane University Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday adventure in a special one-hour production perfect for the entire family. From an enchanting party, a dramatic battle and dancing dolls to a whimsical journey to the Land of Sweets, this magical tale is uniquely brought to life by over 100 participants ages 6-80+ of NOBA’s tuition-free programs for youth and senior citizens from the greater metropolitan area.

PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

SUMMER DANCE CONCERT FRI | JULY 26, 2024 | 7PM Freda Lupin Memorial Hall, NOCCA

SPRING DANCE CONCERT SUN | MAY 19, 2024 | 7PM | Dixon Hall, Tulane University This inspirational evening of dance features the remarkable talent and accomplishments of our young artists performing new works by renowned local and guest artists.

Join us for a special concert of works created and set by the esteemed artists of LINES Ballet and more during the heralded summer intensive.

PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

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PHOTO BY RACHEL NEVILLE

COMPLEXIONS CONTEMPORARY BALLET

with Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott) Special NOBA Commissioned World Premiere

SAT | OCT 21 | 7:30PM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER (New Orleans, LA)

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ailed as a “matchless American dance company” by the Philadelphia Inquirer, Complexions Contemporary Ballet transcends dance tradition through a groundbreaking approach to the art. Founded in 1994 by master choreographer Dwight Rhoden and the legendary Desmond Richardson, Complexions’ foremost innovation is to remove boundaries, not reinforce them. The company blends methods, styles and cultures from across the globe, and the result is a continually evolving form of dance that reflects the movement of our world — and all its cultures — as an interrelated whole.

Complexions’ artistic directors and company members teach master classes around the world to dancers of all levels, bringing the company's inventive vision of human movement to five continents, over 20 countries and over 20 million television viewers. The company has also performed at major dance

festivals throughout Europe. These include Italy’s Festival of Dance; France’s Isle De Dance Festival and Maison De La Dance Festival; the Holland Dance Festival; Switzerland’s Steps International Dance Festival; Poland’s kódź Biennale, Warsaw Ballet Festival and Kraków Spring Ballet Festival; and Spain’s Dance Festival of Canary Islands. Complexions has toured extensively throughout the Baltic Regions, Korea, Brazil, Japan, Egypt, Germany, Italy, Israel, Russia, New Zealand, Bermuda, Serbia, Jamaica and Australia.

In the 29 years since its inception, the company has born witness to a world that is becoming more fluid, more changeable and more culturally interconnected than ever before. Today, Complexions Contemporary Ballet represents one of the most recognized and respected performing arts brands in the world. It is poised to continue its mission of bringing unity to the world, one dance at a time.

“Complexions is the ultimate American contemporary dance company.

The choreography, choices, dancers, and collaborators are diverse, raw, vulnerable, honest, emotional, proud, a bit haughty and full of attitude” – Broadway World

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DWIGHT RHODEN

has created 80+ ballets for Complexions, as well as for other companies, including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Joffrey Ballet, Miami City Ballet, New York City Ballet, Mariinsky Ballet, Pittsburgh Ballet Theater, and San Francisco Ballet, among others.

Rhoden has also directed and choreographed for So You Think You Can Dance, E! Entertainment’s Tribute to Style, Amici, and Cirque Du Soleil’s Zumanity, and he appeared in the feature film One Last Dance. He has collaborated with or created work for celebrated artists Prince, Lenny Kravitz, Kelly Clarkson, ELEW, David Rozenblatt, Nicholas Payton, The Drifters, Paul Simon, Billy Strayhorn, Nina Simone, Marvin Gaye, U2, The Turtle Creek Chorus, and Patrick Swayze. Rhoden is a recipient of The New York Foundation for the Arts Award, Choo San Goh Award for Choreography, and The Ailey School’s Apex Award. Rhoden received an honorary doctorate degree from the Boston Conservatory in recognition of his contributions to the field of dance.

DESMOND RICHARDSON

Presidential Scholars Foundation’s Roosevelt “Rosey” Thompson Award. Richardson received an honorary doctorate degree from The University of North Carolina School of the Arts in recognition of his contributions to dance.

A celebrity guest performer and choreographer for the American Music Awards, Academy Awards, and So You Think You Can Dance, among others, Richardson has also been featured by Michael Jackson, Prince, Madonna, Elton John, and Aretha Franklin; in films such as Chicago, Julie Taymor’s Across the Universe, and Fall to Rise; and in operas Julie Taymor’s Grendel as Beowulf and as the Pharaoh in Teatro La Scala’s Moïse et Pharaone. He has worked with fashion icon Tom Ford, Chic’s Nile Rodgers, and contributed to Grammy Award winning Jill Scott’s video Back Together, featuring Complexions dancers. Internationally and domestically, he is a master teacher for dance programs such as the New York’s All Stars Project, YoungArts Miami, United Way, and NYCDA.

(Co-Founder, Co-Artistic Director, Principal Choreographer) has established a remarkably wide-ranging career, earning distinction from The New York Times as “one of the most sought out choreographers of the day.” A native of Dayton, Ohio, Rhoden began dancing at age seventeen and has performed with Dayton Contemporary Dance Company, Les Ballet Jazz De Montreal and as a principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

Bringing a unique brand of contemporary dance to the world for over two decades, Complexions is a dance institution high in demand, as a center for innovation and cuttingedge programming. Rhoden’s choreography has been the lynchpin of the development of Complexions repertory. “Musicality, innovation, purpose, consistency, a brilliant use of stage space and the ability to tell a story—all these qualities make [Rhoden] one of today's elite choreographers.” (Los Angeles Times) Rhoden

(Co-Founder, Co-Artistic Director) was the first African-American principal dancer of American Ballet Theatre and is hailed by The New York Times as “one of the greatest dancers of his time.” Nominated for a Tony Award for his role in Fosse and deemed a standout in the Tony Award winning production After Midnight, Richardson has also appeared on celebrated stages across the world, namely, The Metropolitan Opera, The Kennedy Center, Paris Opera, The Bolshoi Theatre, The Mariinsky Theatre, The State Kremlin Palace, Teatro Massimo, and Teatro alla Scala. He has been a member and invited guest of prestigious companies including Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Frankfurt Ballet, Royal Swedish Opera Ballet, Washington Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet, to name a few. A Young Arts Finalist and Presidential Scholar, he is the recipient of the Dance Magazine Award, Capezio Award, Ailey Apex Award, L.A. Ovation Award, "Bessie" Award, YoungArts Alumni Award, and

New Orleans native Chief Adjuah (formerly Christian Scott) joins Complexions on stage in a World Premiere

This season, NOBA continues its nationally recognized initiative to pair internationally renowned choreographers with jazz musicians by bringing together two of the world’s most recognized and prolific artists – choreographer Dwight Rhoden and Chief Adjuah. The renowned choreographer will join forces with the two-time Edison Award-winning, six-time Grammy Award-nominated artist, who is a sonic architect, trumpeter, multi-instrumentalist, composer, producer and designer of innovative technologies and musical instruments. He is widely recognized as the progenitor of the Stretch Music style, a 21st-century approach that asserts genre blindess and an ethnomusicological approach to limitless fusion that heralded NPR to hail him as “ushering in a new era of jazz,” and JazzTimes Magazine to mark him as “jazz’s young style God.” Founder and CEO of the Stretch Music App and Recording Company, Chieftain and OBA of the Xodokan Nation, Chief Adjuah is the grandson of Louisiana luminary and legend, the late Big Chief Donald Harrison Sr., and Grand Griot of New Orleans and Guardians Institute Founder, Herreast Harrison.

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PHOTO BY ALBA MURIEL

COMPAÑIA NACIONAL DE DANZA SAT | JAN 20 | 7:30PM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER

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NdD was founded in 1979 under the name Ballet Clásico Nacional and headed by Víctor Ullate as its first director. In February 1983, María de Ávila assumed the directorship of both the Ballet Nacional Español and the Ballet Clásico Español, placing special emphasis on opening the doors to choreographers such as George Balanchine and Antony Tudor. De Ávila commissioned choreography by the American dancer and choreographer Ray Barra, at the time a resident in Spain.

She later offered him the post as full-time director, which he accepted and held until December 1990.

In December 1987, the outstanding Russian dancer Maya

Plisétskaya took her post as artistic ballet director. In June 1990, Nacho Duato was installed as artistic director of what is now called the Compañía Nacional de Danza (CNdD), a position he held for 20 years. His incorporation brought about an innovative change to the company’s history and make up, with the inclusion of new, original pieces within its repertoire, together with long-standing tried and tested works. In August 2010, Hervé Palito succeeded Duato as artistic director for one year. In September 2011, José Carlos Martínez took the helm as director of the CNdD, holding the post for eight years until INAEM—the culture ministry’s performing arts’ institute—announced Joaquín De Luz as new artistic director.

“The show ends with me still at the edge of my seat.”

-The Ballet Herald 18

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PHOTO BY ALBA MURIEL

JOAQUÍN DE LUZ

(Artistic Director) trained at Víctor Ullate's school and joined his company in 1992, where he remained for three years. In 1995, he joined the Ballet Mediterráneo at the request of Fernando Bujones. Pennsylvania Ballet invited him to join the company as a soloist in 1996, and one year later, he joined the corps de ballet at New York’s American Ballet Theatre (ABT), becoming a soloist. During his seven years at ABT, he performed key roles such as The Bronze Idol and Solor in La Bayadère (Natalia Makarova, after Marius Petipa), Red Cowboy in Billy the Kid, Champion Roper in Rodeo (A. Demille), Blue Boy in Le Patineurs (Ashton), first sailor in Fancy Free (Jerome Robbins), Birbanto in Le Corsaire (A. M. Holmes), Turning Boy in Etudes (H. Lander), Yellow Couple in Diversions of Angels and Benno in Swan Lake (Kevin McKenzie, after Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov), among many others.

De Luz joined New York City Ballet in 2003 as a soloist and became a principal dancer two years later.

While there, he interpreted some of dance history’s most important parts and roles, performing in many of the world’s most emblematic theatres. Some of the roles created specifically for De Luz include ballets such as Slice to Sharp by Jorma Elo; Bal de Couture and Romeo & Juliet by Peter Martins; Outlier

by Wayne McGregor; Year of the Rabbit by Justin Peck; Concerto DSCH and Odessa by Alexei Ratmansky; and DGV—Danse à Grande Vitesse and Shambards

by Christopher Wheeldon. De Luz has appeared as guest artist with numerous international companies, such as Compañía Nacional de Danza de España (CNdD), American Ballet Theatre, San Francisco Ballet, Stanivslasky Theatre in Moscow, Ballet del Teatro Colón in Buenos Aires and the Ballet Nacional de

Cuba, among others.

His many performances in international galas and special events include: Stars of the 21st Century, in Paris and New York; Intensio, José Carreño and Friends and The World of Diana Vishneva, in Tokio; Tribute to Nureyev in Rome. Additionally, he has appeared in a number of festivals, including the Ravel, Spoletto, Perelada, Santander, Madrid, Vail, Atenas and Miami festivals.

De Luz’s talent earned him myriad awards, including the Gold Medal in Nureyev international contest in Budapest, 2006; the best male dancer prize in the Benois de la Danse in Moscow, 2009; the Madrid Region Culture Prize, 2010; and the Premio Nacional de Danza (Spain) for interpretation, 2016.

Since 2018, he has combined his roles as choreographer and artistic director with that of teacher in the School of American Ballet in New York, at both the ABT’s JKO school and its Studio Company, at the Marat Daukayev School of Ballet in Los Angeles and at Philadelphia’s Rock School, and is under high demand to give courses and master classes at a wide range of institutions internationally.

In 2019, Spain’s INAEM, Ministry of Culture and central government, jointly announced his appointment as director of the Compañía Nacional de Danza (CNdD), succeeding José Carlos Martínez.

For the CNdD he has choreographed Arriaga (with Aguiló and Alosa) (2020) and Giselle, premiered in December of the same year at the Teatro de la Zarzuela in Madrid, under the artistic direction and with choreography by Joaquín De Luz himself. In November 2022, the Union of Writers and Artists of Cuba (UNEAC) presented the Josefina Méndez International Honorary Dance Award to Joaquín De Luz in Havana.

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PHOTOS BY ALICE BLANGERO

Under the Presidency of H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover

LES BALLETS DE MONTE CARLO in LAC SAT | MAR 2 | 7:30PM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER

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he year 1909 marked the beginning of a strong presence of choreographic art in Monaco. Serge de Diaghilev presented his Russian Ballet in Paris for the first time, and they set up in Monte-Carlo, which became their creative workshop for the next two decades. From the Principality, Diaghilev reformed ballet in all its forms in his time. Upon his death in 1929, the company was dissolved.

Following, several personalities and choreographers revived it under various names, but it disappeared completely in 1951.

In 1985, thanks to the vision of H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover, the Ballets de Monte-Carlo Company was born, first under the leadership of Ghislaine Thesmar and Pierre Lacotte, and later by Jean-Yves Esquerre.

In 1993, H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover nominated Jean-Christophe Maillot as the head of the Monte Carlo Ballets. Building on his experience as a dancer from Rosella Hightower and John Neumeier and as choreographer-director of the National Choreographic Centre of Tours, Maillot has created iconic works for the Company plus several that have entered the repertoire of large international companies. Les Ballets de Monte Carlo is now in demand throughout the world with Maillot’s works such as Vers un pays sage (1995), Roméo et Juliette (1996), Cendrillon (1999), La Belle (2001), Le Songe (2005), Altro Canto (2006), Faust (2007), 20

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LAC (2011), CHORE (2013), Casse-Noisette Compagnie (2013), Aleatorio (2016), Abstract Life (2018), Core meu (2019), and Coppélia. (2019). He also enriches the company’s repertoire by inviting major choreographers of our time, as well as emerging choreographers to work with the 50 dancers of the company. Among these guest choreographers are Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, Shen Wei, Alonzo King, Emio Greco, Chris Haring, Marco Goecke, Lucinda Childs, William Forsythe, Jiří Kylián, Karole Armitage, Maurice Béjart, Marie Chouinard and more.

In 2000, Maillot created the Monaco Dance Forum, an international window to dance that presents an eclectic fusion of spectacles, exhibitions, workshops and conferences, in which the company regularly participates, and the Académie Princess Grace. In 2011, under the presidency of H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover, the Ballets de Monte-Carlo now incorporates the Company, Monaco Dance Forum and Princess Grace Academy under a single organization under the direction of Maillot with a mission of providing the excellence of an international company, the assets of a diverse festival and the potential for a school of a high level. Creation, training and production are currently reunited in Monaco to serve choreography in an unprecedented manner in the world of dance.

“This version of [Swan] Lake is a turning point in the history of dance, a soaring feat of almost lyrical proportions, with room still for restraint and nuance. It will undoubtedly remain a dazzling memory for all.”

-Le Figaro (France)

JEAN-CHRISTOPHE MAILLOT (Artistic Director)

Rosella Hightower liked to say of her student Jean-Christophe Maillot, that his life was just a union of opposites. In fact, for the current Choreographer-Director of the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, dance combines with theatre, enters the ring under a big top, evolves into the arena of visual arts, is fuelled by the most diverse scores and explores different forms of literature. His repertoire of 80 ballets (35 created in Monaco) draws from the world of art in the broadest sense and

each ballet is a sketch book which feeds the following work. Thus, over 30 years, JeanChristophe Maillot has created an ensemble of 60 pieces ranging from great narrative ballets to shorter formats, and where multiple connections reflect a work which forms part of the history and diversity. Neither classical nor contemporary, not even between the two, Jean-Christophe Maillot refuses to adhere to one style and designs dance like a dialogue where tradition on pointes and the avantgarde are no longer mutually exclusive.

Born in 1960, Jean-Christophe Maillot studied dance and piano at the Conservatoire National de Région de Tours, before joining the Rosella Hightower International School of Dance in Cannes until winning the Prix de Lausanne in 1977. He was then hired by John Neumeier at the Hamburg Ballet, where he danced in principal roles as a soloist for five years. An accident brought his dancing career to an abrupt end.

In 1983, he was appointed choreographer and director of the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Tours, which he made a National Choreographic Center in 1989. He created

nearly 20 ballets for this company, and in 1985, founded the Dance Festival, Le Chorégraphique. Following his successful 1987 creation Le Mandarin Merveilleux for the Ballets de Monte-Carlo, he became the company's artistic advisor for the 1992-1993 season, and was then appointed directorchoreographer by H.R.H. the Princess of Hanover in September 1993. His arrival set the company on a new path that quickly developed the level of maturity and excellence for which this company of 50 dancers has been renowned for decades.

In 2007, he produced his first stage opera, Faust, for the Hessisches Staatstheater and, in 2009, Norma for the Monte-Carlo Opera. In 2007, he created his first choreographic film with Cinderella, then Le Songe in 2008. In 2009, he developed the content and coordinated the Centenary of the Ballets Russes in Monaco, which would see over 50 companies and choreographers pass through the Principality in one year, providing entertainment for 60,000 audience members.

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“This is a dance your heart out (at all times, no excuses) kind of enterprise” –The New York Times

PARSONS DANCE PHOTOS BY ANDREW ECCLES

PARSONS DANCE

with The Allen Toussaint Orchestra SAT | APR 20 | 7:30PM MAHALIA JACKSON THEATER (New Orleans, LA)

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arsons Dance is a New York City-based contemporary American dance company, internationally renowned for its energized, athletic ensemble work. Founded in 1985 by Artistic Director David Parsons and Tony Award-winning lighting designer Howell Binkley, the company has toured to more than 447 cities, 30 countries and five continents, and has appeared at such notable venues as The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Sydney Opera House, Maison de la Danse, Teatro La Fenice and Theatro Municipal do Rio de Janeiro.

The company performs works selected from the vast and varied repertory of more than 75 works created by David Parsons, commissions new dances from established choreographers like Trey McIntyre and Monica Bill Barnes, and restages works from the American canon, including works by Robert Battle and Paul Taylor. Through its GenerationNOW Fellowship, the company offers

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commissions to young American choreographers whom Parsons mentors through the creative process.

Parsons Dance is committed to providing enriching experiences beyond its performances as it seeks to engage audiences of all ages through education and outreach programs; through post-show discussions, open rehearsals, studio showcases, video workshops, open company classes, summer workshops for pre-professional dancers; and through in-school workshops for public school students.

The company is especially proud of its Autism-Friendly Programs initiative, launched in 2016, that features sensory-friendly workshops and relaxed performances for audiences of all abilities.

All these activities are driven by the vision of Artistic Director David Parsons, who, for 35 years, has combined his choreographic gifts and talent for training highly skilled dancers with a real passion for the art form.

PARSONS DANCE - ZOEY ANDERSON PHOTO BY LOIS GREENFIELD

Honoring a New Orleans Icon with The Allen Toussaint Orchestra In May 2014, the legendary Allen Toussaint joined Parsons Dance on the Mahalia Jackson Theater stage for a world premiere commissioned by NOBA as part of its heralded program to invest in new work by pairing internationally renowned choreographers with New Orleans-based musicians. The result was an instant classic that has since toured the world to rave reviews. To celebrate the 10th anniversary, NOBA and Parsons will honor the legacy of a New Orleans icon with the restaging of Whirlaway with Reginald Toussaint and The Allen Toussaint Orchestra in an evening of new choreographic elements and costumes to a soundtrack of hits including Southern Nights, Going Down, Play Something Sweet, and more.

PHOTO BY ROLAND GUERIN

DAVID PARSONS

(Artistic Director/Co­Founder) has enjoyed a remarkable career as a director, choreographer, performer, master teacher and producer. Raised in Kansas City, Parsons made it to New York at the age of 17 when he received a scholarship to the Alvin Ailey School. After Ailey, he became an understudy with the Paul Taylor Dance Company and then joined the company as a principal dancer; he stayed for eight years. During summers, he toured with MOMIX; he appeared with Mikhail Baryshnikov and Mark Morris in the first White Oak tour; and he launched his choreographic career by setting work on the Taylor Company, National Ballet of Canada, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Batsheva Dance Company, and the Paris Opera Ballet.

After leaving the Taylor company, Parsons was a guest artist with New York City Ballet for four years before his artistic prowess led him to undertake such diverse projects as choreographing Aida at Arena di Verona and producing and co-choreographing María de Buenos Aires at the Skirball Center, as well as creating the choreography for Fool’s Fire, a 1992 film directed by Julie Taymor. Perhaps one of his most thrilling assignments was choreographing and directing the dance elements for Times Square 2000, the 24-hour festivities in Times Square

celebrating the turn of the Millennium. Since then, Parsons has participated in many projects, such as choreographing A Knight’s Tale, a musical theater work directed by John Caird, who previously directed the Broadway and West End productions of Les Misérables and the London National Theatre’s production of Candide.

In addition to the more than 75 works that he has created for Parsons Dance, Parsons has received commissions from such companies as American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, American Dance Festival, Jacob’s Pillow, Spoleto Festival, and Het Muziektheater in Amsterdam, with his most recent from the Kansas City Ballet, who staged his work A Play For Love in May 2019.

Heralded by The New York Times as “one of the great movers of modern dance,” Parsons has received many accolades throughout his career, including three Choreography Fellowship Grants from the National Endowment of the Arts; the American Choreography Award; the Dance Magazine Award; a Howard Gilman Fellowship, and the Dance Masters of America Annual Award. In May 2018, he received the Capezio Award, one of the most prestigious awards in dance.

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Bringing Dance Into the Community Center for Dance Celebrates 32 Years

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n 1992, visionary leaders of multiple institutions — New Orleans City Council, Office of the Mayor, New Orleans Recreation Department (NORD) and NOBA — united in a common goal: to touch the lives of every member of our community through dance.

Through the collective vision of this dedicated group, the unique and groundbreaking partnership between the New Orleans Ballet Association and the New Orleans Recreation Department — the Center for Dance — was formed to ensure children, regardless of economic means, would have access to high quality dance instruction.

Over the past 31 years, the Center for Dance has provided more than $9 million of tuition-free programming to over 31,000 people through over 80,000 classes and activities, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunities to study this art form. The program has garnered national recognition and awards along the way, including the Coming Up Taller Award by the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities, the National Endowment for the Arts and others.

Starting with just 30 students at one NORD site, the program has grown to now serve nearly 2,000 participants ages 4-80+ each year at up to 20 sites in partnership with NORD and other community organizations. Weekly, more than 100 tuition-free classes and activities are offered by a professional faculty who bring a wealth of knowledge, care and experience. Participants study ballet, hip hop, modern, tap, West African, jazz, conditioning, dance fitness and other movement forms. These classes are regularly filled to capacity on a first come, first-served basis, and if a child has a specific need, the Center for Dance provides shoes, leotards and tights. Pre-Professional students ages 7 and up receive additional intensive training and classes by world-renowned dancers and choreographers through the Master Artist Series at Lyons Rec Center and at Tulane University; internships; advanced summer training locally; scholarships to

study at prestigious national summer programs and NOBA’s summer intensives; free or reduced tickets ($5) for Main Stage performances through The Helis Foundation Ovation Program and more.

In 2008, NOBA, at the request of NORD, expanded its reach in the community by providing participants ages 55 and up with a dance fitness program. The Center for Dance proudly continues to grow, including the recent addition of the Rise Program, designed to give motivated, focused and enthusiastic students ages 10–18 the opportunity to expand both their technique and artistry through concentrated training in multiple dance forms, along with an expanded Early Childhood Ballet Program for ages 4–5, now offered at six area NORD locations during the academic year.

In addition, this fall marks the 27th season of NOBA’s St. Bernard After-School Ballet Program. Since its inception in 1995 through a partnership between NOBA, Chalmette Refining, LLC and the St. Bernard Parish School Board, the program has fulfilled thousands of dance dreams, and this school year will again provide instruction twice a week in the beautiful dance studios of the Chalmette High School Cultural Arts Center, which also houses the program’s performances.

For a packed house of family and friends through the Neighborhood Concert Series, students ages 4–80+ take part in fully produced performances with costumes, professional stage management and lights at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall and NOCCA’s Lupin Hall as well as presentations at each partner site. The pre-professional students annually receive advanced study and guest artist residencies in addition to invitations to perform throughout the community and appear on regional and national stages and venues such as New York City’s Joyce Theater and Plaza Hotel, Kennedy Center and Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival.

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PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

“The thing I love most about NOBA’s tuition-free dance programs is the amazingly successful combination of inclusivity, diversity, access and excellence. No one does it better!”

– Center for Dance Parent

“NOBA prepares us for a future in dance and gives us the foundation and knowledge to do this.

Through participation in the programs, we also develop relationships with top artists around the globe, which is essential to our training and future!”

– Center for Dance Student

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Dance & Arts Healing Through Generations

Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program participants and faculty during a class at Pontiff Gym in Metairie PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

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ear after year, NOBA continues its commitment to delivering inclusive, accessible and transformative dance and arts healing activities for over 2,000 participants ages 4-80+ through more than 5 ,500 free classes in a variety of dance forms. Ongoing collaborations with an expanded network of partners, such as the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD), St. Bernard Parish School Board, New Orleans JCC, Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation, LSU AgCenter, Dillard University, Tulane University, Xavier University, New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), Willow Charter School and other area K-12 school s, continue to increase NOBA’s capacity to deliver positive health outcomes and support vibrant, creative communities.

Since its inception more than six years ago, the Oscar J. Tolmas Dance for Parkinson’s Program has reached a total attendance of nearly 7,000 people through free, specialized, ongoing weekly classes and special outreach activities that empower people with Parkinson’s disease to creatively explore movement and live

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music, all in a safe, welcoming and fun environment. Classes are modeled after the Mark Morris Dance Group’s internationally renowned Dance for PD® program and take place twice weekly during the mornings at two locations – Mondays in Metairie at Pontiff Gym and Wednesdays in New Orleans at the JCC. Between October 2022 and May 2023, thanks to a community grant from the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s, NOBA conducted a special “Championing Movement” series of Parkinson’s Disease focused educational and movementbased workshops in 10 communities throughout Southeast Louisiana, including Reser ve, Destrehan, Covington, Morgan City, G onzales, Bogalusa, Thibodaux, Baton Rouge, New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward and New Orleans East at the VIET Community Center, reaching nearly 550 individual s . The workshops’ success hinged on connecting and par tnering with trusted community members, health professional s and stakeholders to spread Parkinson’s awareness, resources and suppor t, while promoting a holistic approach to

“I am so much better walking out than when I walked in…I call it the Parkinson’s ‘Happy Hour’!

During class, I know that I am very intentionally healing. It is an easy way to get my body to do what my brain tells it to, plus I feel very joyful!”

– Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program Participant

living well with Parkinson’s . With over 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s, we believe that continued work and advocacy in our region are critical, and that movement truly has the power to heal!

Michelle Lane, a Jefferson Parish resident, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s more than 20 years ago at the age of 32 and now ser ves as local Parkinson’s support group leader and national advocate. “After inviting

“NOBA’s Senior Dance Fitness Program helped save my life!”

– NOBA Senior Dance Fitness Participant

1 1. Senior Dance Fitness Program participants perform in a Neighborhood Concert Series performance at Joe W. Brown Rec Center in New Orleans East. PHOTO

BY JAELYN ROBINSON

2. Susan Perlis leads a Championing Movement workshop in East Baton Rouge Parish. PHOTO BY MILLETTE WHITE LIN

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3. Participants and faculty second line during the Senior Dance Fitness Programs’ 15th Anniversary Celebration at Lyons Rec Center. PHOTO BY SCOTT MYERS

4. Adult ballet master class at Lyons Rec Center. PHOTO

BY JEFF STROUT

5. EVIDENCE artist Randall Riley co-leads a multigenerational open community master class at Joe W. Brown Rec Center.

PHOTO BY MILLETTE WHITE LIN

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NOBA to present a Dance for Parkinson’s sample class at our support group, I realized this program would be a hit with the Parkinson’s community. If there is anything that sidelines you, exacerbates your sense of constriction and inhibition, it is Parkinson’s. If there is anything that call s for expression, movement and liveliness, it is dance. The class is not only physically therapeutic but often gives us a psychological boost. People struggling with movement and speech because of the disease say the sessions are liberating, providing a new way to express themselves.”

Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and at the request of NORD for the development of crucial programming for seniors, NOBA’s Senior Dance Fitness Program launched at St. Bernard Rec Center in 2008. Fif teen years later, the program continues to positively impact the lives of countless par ticipant s ages 55 and over. Currently of fered twice a week at three centers, this tuition-free program includes stretching, cardio and dance set to fun music; dance workshops with visiting Main Stage ar tist s;

per formance oppor tunities; social event s; discounted ticket s to select Main Stage per formances and more! For many par ticipant s, the Senior Dance Fitness Program is more than just fun. The program equips them with the ability to combat chronic health conditions through active measures such as reducing stif fness, ar thritis pain, respirator y problems, blood sugar level s, blood pressure and losing weight. Others share that involvement in the program helps break isolation and form friendships and social suppor t networks .

NOBA’s relationships and residency work with Main Stage companies and artists regularly produce unique experiences for community members to be moved in body, mind and spirit.

During the fall and spring, NOBA al so offers weekly, open, drop-in ballet master classes taught by renowned guest artists for adults and teens on Friday mornings at the Lyons Rec Center. These sessions, along with additional master classes in various dance genres at multiple level s, provide participants with the opportunities to enhance their dance skill s or explore dance and movement for the ver y first time.

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When School is Out, Dance is in!

Summer Programs for Youth

“This program is truly amazing! I love that the program is diverse, and each child feels welcomed and loved!”

– NOBA Parent

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OBA’s tuition-free programs for youth extend beyond the school year into a kaleidoscope of summer dance and fitness camps in partnership with NORD and other community organizations. Led by a faculty of passionate and highly qualified local and visiting artists, these summer sessions engage body and mind through health education related activities that foster life skills such as selfconfidence, teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment. Motivated students ages 7 to 18 may also audition for NOBA’s summer intensives, which provide opportunities to study and perform with top dance artists.

ADVENTURES IN DANCE THREE AND A HALF WEEK DAYTIME CAMP for up to 40 children ages 7–11 of all experience levels is held in the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance Studio at Lyons Rec Center in June. This comprehensive, popular camp offers: • Daily classes in different styles of dance technique including ballet, modern, hip hop, jazz, West African dance, Brazilian dance and more • Educational activities in nutrition, health, dance history, sewing, craft arts, arts integration and literacy • A children’s dance book for each participant to add to their home library • Nutritious breakfast and lunch • Fully costumed culminating studio performance for family and friends JUNE EARLY CHILDHOOD, PREPARATORY & TEEN DANCE PROGRAMS for ages 4–18 of all experience levels offers evening technique classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop and tap at partner sites.

JUNE MASTER ARTIST SERIES INTENSIVES by audition for ages 12-18 bring master artists from all over the country for week-long technique and repertory sessions, culminating with a Neighborhood Concert.

TWO-WEEK JULY MORNING INTENSIVE by audition for ages 7-11 features a half-day introduction to the Summer Intensive experience for the young dancer.

Students are challenged and engaged through dance technique classes in ballet, jazz and modern, along with additional sessions exploring choreography, dance history and more, ending with a Neighborhood Concert.

THREE-WEEK JULY DAYTIME INTENSIVE by audition for ages 12-18 is NOBA’s headlining intensive for intermediate and advanced dancers, and provides rigorous training with prestigious guest faculty, culminating in a fully produced concert at NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall, during which students have the unique opportunity to share the stage with professional dancers representing each of the visiting companies.

THREE-WEEK JULY AFTERNOON INTENSIVE by audition for ages 10–18 features local and visiting guest artists and fosters an emphasis on building technical proficiency, confidence and self-expression through classes in conditioning, ballet, modern and other dance genres. A Neighborhood Concert culminates the three-week, half-day intensive.

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“NOBA enriches my life because it allows me to train with extraordinary teachers and choreographers. Dancing has also helped me decrease my anxiety, increase my selfesteem and express myself. I’ve found community within the program too. During my time here, I have been able to be around like-minded students and build lasting friendships!”

–NOBA Student

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NOBA Master Artist Series

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“As a former NOBA student, it was unreal to be able to have the opportunities to work with these kinds of artists tuition-free and know that there are people who care enough to make it happen for me!”

– NOBA Alumna

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OBA’s year-round Master Artist Series provides talented and aspiring young dancers innovative and unprecedented opportunities to learn, perform and be mentored by worldrenowned artists from some of the top companies in dance, including Ballet Hispánico, San Francisco Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, The Joffrey Ballet and many more. NOBA students have performed throughout the community and in major theaters with some of the most recognizable names in the industry such as Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Limón Dance Company, Parsons Dance and Martha Graham Dance Company.

In January 2023, advanced students of NOBA’s Pre-Professional Program participated in master classes and a special choreographic intensive led by Kellye Saunders, former Dance Theatre of Harlem Ballet Master and current Adjunct Faculty at Texas Christian University School for Classical and Contemporary Dance. Students had the unique opportunity to learn Holberg Variations, adapted from the late Arthur Mitchell’s seminal work Holberg Suite. “I love working with these kids because of how hungry & ready for the knowledge they are,” Saunders shares. “I give them the steps, and I don’t have to give it nine thousand times. They watch it, they learn it – they may ask a few questions, but I don’t always get students that are so sharp, well focused and learn the repertoire so quickly.”

Later, in March 2023, former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater principal dancer and internationally renowned choreographer and Contemporary West Dance Theatre Artistic Director Bernard Gaddis visited to work with advanced NOBA Pre-Professional Program students, teaching master classes in ballet as well as Horton and Dunham modern techniques, and restaging his riveting choreographic work, Ah-Ha-

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Moment. Reflecting upon experiences such as this, one former NOBA student offered, “It was unreal to be able to have the opportunities to work with these kinds of artists tuition-free and know that there are people who care enough to make it happen for me! Working with professional dancers has helped me learn a sense of responsibility and accountability for myself. You have to be on time for dance, and you have to be present in the dance room when you’re working with people at that level.”

For NOBA students, summer is prime time to tune-in, be challenged and think and dance “outside the box” with some of the some of the industry’s most notable artists. In June 2023, NOBA welcomed Founder and Artistic Director of the Stars of American Ballet and New York City Ballet principal dancer Daniel Ulbricht as well as Wayne David, a celebrated choreographer and ambassador for the arts and the current curricular head of Jazz Dance at the University of the Arts. During one-week sessions with these renowned artists, students were able to immerse themselves in ballet and jazz technique and repertoire sessions that culminated in final performances.

Most recently, during July 2023, guest faculty included EVIDENCE Founder and Artistic Director Ronald K. Brown, Associate Artistic Director Arcell Cabuag, along with current EVIDENCE artists Isaiah Harvey and Austin Coats. These artists were joined by former Complexions Contemporary Ballet Company members and current master teachers and performers Jourdan Epstein and Terk Lewis.

These spectacular artists mentored students over the course of the annual three-week Summer Intensive, which culminated with a soldout concert performance at NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall. In addition to rigorous, top-rate dance instruction, summer students are encouraged to develop versatility and expand knowledge of dance and cultures across the globe. This summer that meant delving into the unique Afro-Cuban inspired movement language of EVIDENCE as well as pushing the boundaries of students’ understanding of ballet by tackling Complexions’ official “NIQUE” technique.

For visiting artists, teaching at NOBA is a chance to utilize their resources to encourage and aid young and upcoming dancers as they develop the skills they need to pursue careers in the arts and beyond.

For Brown and Cabuag, their work with NOBA’s July summer intensives since 2016 informed their own youth programming with EVIDENCE. Cabuag recently shared, “The first year we started at NOBA was actually the first year we started the pre-professional training program at the

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1. NOBA Summer Intensive students perform an excerpt from Ronald K. Browns’ Four Corners PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 2. Students perform an excerpt of Dwight Rhodens’ Curve during the Summer Concert PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 3. Guest artist Jourdan Epstein instructs students during the 2023 Summer Intensive PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 4. NOBA Pre-Professional Program student Alina Garcia is coached by Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo ballet master Raffaele Morra during a master class PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 5. Guest artist Wayne David leads a jazz dance technique class during a June Summer Intensive PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 6. Guest artist Bernard Gaddis sets his work Ah-Ha-Moment on NOBA Pre-Professional Program dancers PHOTO BY COREY MELANCON 7. Alumna Kennedy Simon during technique class with guest artist Wayne David PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT 8. Kellye Saunders demonstrates choreography to Pre-Professional Program students during a spring residency PHOTO

BY JEFF STROUT 9. Guest artist Daniel Ulbricht leads a Summer Intensive Ballet Class PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN 10. Ronald K. Brown demonstrating movement with alumna Scarlett Michell-Yang PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

school that we have in Brooklyn. And it gave us the upstart and confidence to be like ‘yes, we can actually do this, we can work with young people and start switching from adults to young people.’ It was just an incredible experience and every time we come back, we’re watching these children grow.” This summer students learned and performed excerpts from two works choreographed by Ronald K. Bown, Torch and Four Corners. In Brown’s own words, “NOBA is an amazing organization that I’m so grateful to be a part of, and I’m so happy to be sharing that work with the dancers and community here in New Orleans.

It’s an incredible opportunity to work with young people and introduce them to the fact that dance for me is a conversation spirit to spirit, heart to heart, and EVIDENCE is about sharing work to celebrate the human condition.”

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“NOBA is an amazing organization that I’m so grateful to be a part of, and I’m so happy to be sharing that work with the dancers and community here in New Orleans. It’s an incredible opportunity to work with young people and introduce them to the fact that dance for me is a conversation spirit to spirit, heart to heart, and EVIDENCE is about sharing work to celebrate the human condition.”

– Ronald K. Brown, Summer Intensive Visiting Master Artist and EVIDENCE Founder/Artistic Director

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NOBA Faculty Madyson Barbain began

her dance training over 20 years ago at Art in Motion Dance Academy.

She is an alumna of Warren Easton and NOCCA, receiving honors in academics. Barbain graduated from Tulane University with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and LBA in kinesiology, and has danced with KM Dance Project, Artivism Dance Theatre, Goat in the Road Productions, Dancing Grounds and Boston's Commonwealth Circus Center. Barbain has also performed in festivals such as Jazz Fest, Fried Chicken Fest and Miami Pride Festival and with musical artists Master P, Jon Batiste, Dawn Richard and more. In 2023, she was recognized as a finalist for the Gambit’s New Orleans Big Easy Outstanding Choreography award for her work in collaboration with Artivism Dance Theatre. Barbain joined the NOBA faculty in 2021.

Susan Bensinger

earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance education from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Arts in dance from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. While there, she performed with the Maida Withers Dance Construction Company. She has taught dance at George Washington University, Foxcroft School, and Willow Charter School.

In 2007, she was voted Teacher of the Year at Willow. Bensinger began working with NOBA in 2012 and is a trained substitute for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program.

Carly Sistrunk Bourgeois started

training at age three at Sandra Dottolo’s Dance Etc. By 11, she was taking instruction in classical ballet and competed in regional and national

“Our Senior Dance Fitness Instructor Carly is excellent...the classes are the most fun and are as physical as you want them to be. We’re living longer…the fourth quarter doesn’t have to be the last quarter because we are headed to overtime!”

–James Ewers, NOBA Senior Dance Fitness Participant

NOBA Senior Dance Fitness Participant James Ewers makes a special presentation to Carly Bourgeois during the NORD/NOBA Senior Dance Fitness 15th Anniversary Celebration PHOTO BY SCOTT MYERS

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competitions in various genres of dance until 2011. Bourgeois began her dance teaching career in 2005 and in 2012 began assisting with the Loyola University New Orleans’ Ballet Preparatory Program. She has performed with D’Project, Inc. and Storytellers Dance Project and toured nationally and internationally with Komenka Ethnic Dance and Music Ensemble.

Bourgeois joined the NOBA faculty in 2013.

Bethani Pete Collins hails from

Crowley, Louisiana.

Her love of dance began at the age of two under Pamalor Joseph and Pasgwa Washington at PJ’s Dance/Art School. In 2011, she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and her training continued at The Ailey School in New York City, Urban Bush Women Summer Leadership Institute, and American Dance Festival. In 2015, Collins began working alongside her Mentor Dollie Eaglin (Rivas) at Audubon Charter School and in that same year joined the NOBA faculty.

She currently teaches dance and cheer at Alfred Bonnabel Magnet Academy High School and John Q. Adams Middle School.

Collins is dedicated to enthusiastic and dynamic teaching as a means of creating and nurturing a lifelong love of the arts.

Vince E. Collins

(Master Artist in Residence), an Oakland native, began his formal dance training at the age of fifteen in Pasadena, California, under Philip and Charles Fuller, former principal dancers with San Francisco Ballet and Ballet West. At 18, he continued his training on a merit scholarship with Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. A year later, Collins received a scholarship to the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) pre-professional certificate program under co-founders Karl Shook and Arthur Mitchell and trained under renowned faculty members, such as Sir Frederick Franklin, Nancy Schaffenburg-Cross, Rosella Hightower, Homer Bryant and Istvan Rabovsky.

After graduating, he joined the DTH company and ended a 17-year career with the company as a soloist, dancing ballets created by George Balanchine, John Taras, Alvin Ailey, Agnes de Mille, Alonzo King, Arthur Mitchell and many others. He also danced with the Metropolitan Opera Ballet, Ballet Hispánico and Ballet New England, and he finished his career as a principal dancer with the Oakland Ballet. Collins’ performance experience also includes stage, film and television, and he is a choreographer and dance educator with over 30 years of experience ranging from working with companies and institutions such as the Royal Caribbean cruise line and The University of the West Indies (Kingston Jamaica). He received a Proclamation from the City of Flint, Michigan, for creating “The Elegance of Ellington” in recognition of Black History Month. As a dance educator and coach, Collins uses the arts as an agent for change for young people all over the world. He has worked in arts exposure programs in South Africa, Israel, Jamaica, Bermuda and England, and created dance programming in Washington, D.C., Oakland, Miami, Las Vegas and Atlanta, He has also worked with organizations such as New World School of the Arts, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, New Orleans Ballet Association, Ballethnic Academy of Dance and company and Flint Youth Ballet, as well as domestically and internationally with the DTH School and Company community outreach programs. In addition, Collins had a 15-year career working in Health and Human services. More recently, he served as director of operations, as well as other managerial roles in public health facilities and community-based organizations, in Las Vegas. His commitment to championing health equity and community wellness led to serving as an advisory board member for the Nevada Minority Heath Coalition (School of Public Health/University of Las Vegas, Nevada) and DEI advisory teams throughout the state of Nevada.

NOBA Adventures in Dance Camp Instructors Corey Melancon, Caleb Dowden, Aline de Souza-Myers and Tai Teamer PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

Aline de Souza-Myers second lines with participant during the NORD/NOBA Senior Dance Fitness 15th Anniversary Celebration PHOTO BY SCOTT MYERS

"I've been blessed to work with NOBA since I first came to New Orleans in the fall of 2007 and still fall in love with NOBA's mission to make dance accessible for everyone. I feel that I have found my ‘happy place’ where I can do what I love with people that share my passion."

– Aline Neves de Souza, Faculty Member and Rehearsal Director of NOBA’s Center for Dance production of The Nutcracker Suite

April Dayok

earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance from Point Park University.

After relocating to New York, she danced with Becky Radway Dance Project, Counter Tides Dance, Mark Dendy Dance and Theater Projects, and worked with the Mark Morris Dance Group's Dance for PD® program and for Pamela Quinn (dancer, Parkinson's patient and movement specialist for Parkinson's Disease patients). Dayok has toured nationally and internationally with Lightwire Theater and has performed locally with Mélange Dance Company and ELLEvate Dance. She began working with NOBA in 2017 and is an instructor for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program.

Aline Neves de Souza-Myers, a

native of Brazil, holds a degree in physical education from the Universidade Castelo Branco and is a graduate from Escola Estadual de Danças Maria Olenewa of the Municipal Theatre of Rio de Janeiro.

She performed and toured with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus as a dancer and an aerialist. De Souza-Myers has danced and choreographed for Komenka Ethnic Music and Dance Ensemble, performing nationally and internationally. She has served as the local rehearsal director for Center for Dance student projects with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Ballet Hispánico, Parsons Dance and Limón Dance Company and is the founding and lead instructor for the Senior Dance Fitness Program. De Souza-Myers completed the prestigious School of American Ballet’s National Visiting

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NOBA Faculty Fellows Program in 2019-20, serves as the director for The Nutcracker Suite and Spring Concert productions and joined the NOBA faculty in 2007.

Caleb Dowden

attended the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and was a preprofessional artist with the New Orleans Ballet Association. During her four years as a student in the Conservatory of Dance at Purchase College, she had the opportunity to perform contemporary works by Maiya Redding and Rena Butler as well as classic 20th century works by José Limon and Martha Graham. Dowden has studied abroad in Benin, West Africa, and Taipei, Taiwan. She received a Fulbright Award in the Creative and Performing Arts to conduct research in Benin, West Africa, from the U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board. Her overall aspiration as an artist is to create a dance company whose work is a physical embodiment of her ancestry.

Dowden joined the NOBA faculty in 2022.

Alice Pascal Escher is an

associate professor of dance in the Newcomb Dance Program, Tulane Department of Theatre and Dance, and was the founder and artistic director of the Newcomb Dance Company for 35 years.

Escher is a native of Baton Rouge, where she studied ballet with Elisa Minet Fuchs. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from Florida State University and a Master of Fine Arts in dance from Temple University and is a Certified Movement Analyst (CMA).

Escher has been instrumental in the development of the dance major program at Tulane. She enjoys teaching in the Center for Dance Pre-Professional

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Program and is constantly inspired by the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of the students and staff.

Kelly Harp Haber began

dancing in Monroe, Louisiana, with Twin City Ballet. Haber studied modern dance at Louisiana Tech University while earning her degree in elementary education and later received a Master of Education at Vanderbilt University. She danced with Encore Ballet Company in Madison, Mississippi. Haber taught all levels with Ballet Mississippi while serving as director of the lower school. For many years, she brought dance and movement regularly to The Blake, a senior living home. Haber joined the NOBA faculty in 2016 and is an instructor for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program. Her additional education includes workshops and advanced training in Dance for PD® at the Mark Morris Dance Center in Brooklyn, New York, as well as with Donna NewmanBluestein to bring dance to people with Dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Christina Johnson (Master

Artist in Residence) began her dance career at age 17 with Boston Ballet. She then joined Dance Theatre of Harlem where she became a principal dancer within four years and had a 13-year tenure. She was a founding member of Complexions Contemporary Ballet and was a featured guest artist with various companies worldwide, including the Royal Ballet of London. Johnson danced in Switzerland for seven years with Le Ballet du Grand Theatre de Geneve and Ballett Basel. After her performance career, Johnson has been sought after as a teacher and coach for dance schools, professional dance

companies and universities. She held the position of Rehearsal Director for Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet, Washington Ballet, Armitage Gone! Dance, Trey McIntyre Project and Complexions Contemporary Ballet. She was on faculty at Marin Ballet in San Rafael, California, as well as the Dominican University in the LINES/Dominican BFA in Dance Program.

Johnson is a judge and master teacher for various dance competitions, such as Universal Ballet Competition, American Dance Competition/International Ballet Competition and Revel Dance Convention. Johnson is featured in the book Dance Theatre of Harlem: A History, A Movement, A Celebration, as well as Misty Copeland’s book, Black Ballerinas: My Journey to Our Legacy. In addition, she danced in the 2022 Edinburgh Festival Fringe as a soloist with Quimera Ritual Dance. Johnson also plays a leading role in Misty Copeland’s film Flower, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in 2023. Johnson holds a Master of Fine Arts in dance from Hollins University in collaboration with the American Dance Festival, The Forsythe Company and Frankfurt University of Music and Performing Arts in Germany.

Millette White Lin acquired a

Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from the University of New Orleans. She formerly danced with Sandra Organ Dance Company, Michele Brangwen Dance Ensemble, Ballet Hysell and Ballet Apetrei. Lin received training from the Atlanta Ballet Center for Dance Education, Joffrey Ballet School, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, NOCCA and Apetrei Dancenter and has taught at the New Orleans Dance Academy, Body Expressions Center of Performing Arts, the Conservatory of Ballet Aviv, Main Street Dance and Activity Center and Apetrei Dancenter. She began working with NOBA as a teaching artist in 2010 and now serves as education manager. Under Lin’s leadership, NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program was created in 2017, modeled after the internationally renowned Dance for PD® program.

Corey Melancon , a native of New Orleans, graduated from Temple University in Philadelphia with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance and earned a Master of Arts in liberal arts studies from Rutgers University. She has studied at prestigious dance institutions including the Martha Graham Institute in New York City, Trinity Laban Dance Conservatory in London and PARTS in Brussels, Belgium. Melancon is also a member of Dance Masters of America and a former board member of The Junior Philharmonic Society of New Orleans. She has attended Martha Graham Teacher Workshops in New York City and shares her passion for teaching ballet and classic modern Graham technique with several local studios. Melancon joined the NOBA faculty in 2019.

Brittney WilliamsReese, a native

NOBA instructors Aline de Souza-Myers and Alice Pascal Escher with long-time NOBA Master Artist in Residence Donald Williams backstage prior to a performance of The Nutcracker Suite PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

“As a single mother of three kids I could never afford to give my children dance lessons, but thanks to NOBA, they are learning the skills of patience, hard work, and dedication – I could never put a price tag on that!”

-NOBA Parent

New Orleanian, began her formal dance training at the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance.

She has also studied at New Orleans Dance Academy, NOCCA, Dance Theatre of Harlem and The Ailey School. WilliamsReese has worked with choreographers including Daniel Catanach, Monique Moss, Nanette Ledet, Joya Powell, Rebecca Stenn and Eduardo Vilaro. In 2009, she received her Bachelor of Arts in natural science from Fordham University and is currently pursuing a Master of arts administration from the University of New Orleans. As an educator, Williams-Reese focuses on the connection between the art of dance and the science of movement.

She joined the NOBA faculty in 2012.

Chloe Roberts

began her dance training in New Orleans at the Willow Charter School and joined the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance Pre-Professional Program at age 13. During her time with NOBA, she worked with many worldrenowned companies such as Ballet Hispánico, Complexions Contemporary Ballet and Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE. In 2023, Roberts received a Bachelor of Arts in dance and a Bachelor of Science in psychology from Tulane University.

NOBA Alumna, Intern and Instructor Chloe Roberts during an outdoor movement activity with Adventures in Dance campers PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN

During her time at Tulane, she worked with many local artists as well as international artists Ronit Ziv and Omar Carrum. This season, Roberts joins the NOBA faculty as an administrative intern and substitute instructor and looks forward to giving back to her community.

Jaelyn Robinson began

her formal dance training with NORD/NOBA Center for Dance at the age of 11.

During this time, she was selected by top artistic directors for performances projects both locally and abroad with acclaimed dance companies, such as Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Parsons Dance, Limón Dance Company, Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE and Dance Theatre of Harlem. Robinson acquired her Bachelor of Arts in public policy at Louisiana State University in 2021 and has since devoted her time to community projects and teaching. She began working with NOBA in 2022 and, during the 2022-23 season, she served as outreach coordinator for NOBA’s “Championing Movement” Dance for Parkinson’s project, developing and implementing a series of communitybuilding and outreach activities for under-resourced and rural areas in Southeast Louisiana.

Jaelyn Robinson coaches a ballet student at Tremé Recreation Community Center PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT N E W O R L E A N S B A L L E T A S S O C I AT I O N 2 0 2 2 - 2 3

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NOBA Faculty Chelsea Syal, originally from Houston, Texas, began her ballet training with Houston Repertoire Ballet. She also trained with Tulsa Ballet. She is a Tulane University graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in dance and a Bachelor of Science in psychology. Syal was awarded the Jill Karp Prize in Dance Performance from Tulane University. She began working with NOBA in 2018, and this season leads ballet classes as part of NOBA’s Early Childhood and Preparatory Programs.

Tai Ashley Teamer began

dancing at the age of two and has studied with the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance, Willow Charter School, NOCCA and New Orleans Dance Academy. She has trained with artists from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ballet Hispánico, Paul Taylor Dance Company and Complexions Contemporary Ballet.

Teamer received a Bachelor of business administration from Loyola University New Orleans and a Master of arts administration from the University of New Orleans. She has received local and national training in movement programs for aging populations of all mobility levels and joined the NOBA faculty in 2013.

"NOBA allows me to create a safe space for training students how to connect their mind and body through movement and dance, and to discover and express their personal artistry without judgment."

– Corey Melancon, Faculty Member

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Catherine Woodfox was

born and raised in New Orleans and fell in love with dancing at the age of five.

She trained in ballet, modern, contemporary and pointe with NOCCA and NOBA, and in New York with the Alvin Ailey School of Dance.

While studying as a dance major at Belhaven University, Woodfox toured and performed for various audiences in South Korea with her college dance company, Bel Mahada. During her time with NOBA, she was selected for special performance projects with top dance companies such as Ballet Hispánico, Martha Graham Dance Company, Parsons Dance, Dance Theatre of Harlem and many more, and performed with Complexions Contemporary Ballet at New York City’s Joyce Theater.

Woodfox joined the NOBA faculty in 2022 and is excited to be able to share the gift of dance with the next generation of young artists.

NOBA instructor Corey Melancon with student Stella Bourke backstage prior to a Spring Concert PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT

“Sharing this gift with the dancers is really special to me. I’ve learned that your gifts always make room for you!”

- Catherine Woodfox, NOBA Alumna & Faculty Member

Catherine Woodfox assists a ballet student at Joe W. Brown Rec Center PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN

NOBA instructor Chelsea Syal leads an Early Childhood ballet class at the St. Bernard Rec Center PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN

BRAVO

Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization

W

elcome to BRAVO! It is our sincere pleasure to invite you to join an amazing group of volunteers who, for 35 years, have helped to shape our culturally rich, unique and diverse city by supporting the New Orleans Ballet Association’s incredible award-winning, world-renowned programs and world-class dance presentations. As the major fundraising arm of NOBA, BRAVO (the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization), provides tremendous, necessary support through fundraising initiatives and volunteer service to ensure NOBA may continue offering splendid dance programming and invaluable—tuition-free—instruction.

Together, BRAVO and NOBA proudly contribute to the cultural enrichment and arts access for our community.

As a BRAVO member, you will be invited to join us not only for general membership meetings at beautiful homes, historic venues and restaurants, but for special events and receptions with Main Stage artists. Each year, BRAVO supports NOBA with its celebrated fundraising events including the glamorous Men and Women of Fashion’s Prix d’Elegance Luncheon and Fashion Show scheduled for April 23, 2024, from which BRAVO is honored to receive the event proceeds in a partnership that has lasted over 15 years. Specific fundraising campaigns for NOBA’s programs further engage volunteers, such as BRAVO’S Nutcracker Legacy Fund, which maintains and supports new costumes and props for NOBA’s annual The Nutcracker Suite, featuring 100+ Center for Dance youth and Senior Dance Fitness participants. We already have new ideas planned to increase participation and build exciting initiatives!

In my second year as BRAVO President, my goal remains to engage our strong and passionate existing base with creative and exciting activities while encouraging a well-rounded, diverse group with new members of all ages and varied talents and skillsets.

Through a collective desire to promote artistic expression and the development, health, and wellness of our families through the transformative power of dance, we can all contribute to the deeply impactful mission of NOBA. With so much to look forward to this season, and your direct role through NOBA on the community’s artistic tradition, I hope you will consider joining our outstanding group.

BRAVO continues to evolve to ensure that participation of all volunteers’ contributions, financial or otherwise, is deeply appreciated and acknowledged. I am honored to serve alongside the many incredible volunteers of BRAVO and humbled to be counted among a legacy of hardworking, impactful leaders as we celebrate BRAVO’s 35th anniversary. Please email bravo@nobadance.com or call the office at (504) 522-0996 x208 for more information. I hope to see you at our meetings!

BRAVO

extends its deep appreciation to the 2023-2024 Sustaining Members.

BRAVO Officers: Front row (l to r): Renee Carrere, Sandra Herman, Laurie Guimont, Teresa Guzzetta, Gail McKenna Second row (l to r): Erica Washington, Sara Lewis, Beverly Matheney, Taryn Brown, Liz Broekman, Nadia Alhashimi Not pictured: Stephanie Burks, Jacquee Carvin, Sandra Chaisson, Nicole Ferrier, Gerri Valene, Sylvia Vellino *PHOTO TAKEN BY JEFF STROUT AT THE ELMS MANSION.

Deborah Alciatore Jennifer Amedee Laura Badeaux Lou Bartolo Lisa Baudot Penny Baumer The Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation Donna Kay Berger C.J. Blanda Tiffa Boutté Stephanie and Ryan Burks Renee Carrere Jacquee Carvin Sandra Stage Chaisson Melissa Coleman Tia Crowley Lorraine Cucchiara Gayle Dellinger Rosalyn Ditta Diane Dupin Marlene Duronslet

Kathleen Edmundson Marian and Larry Gibbs Joanna Giorlando Valerie M. Grubb Laurie Guimont Teresa Guzzetta Henrietta and Terence Hall Jenny Hamilton Sandra Herman Millie Davis Kohn Cynthia LeBreton Willis A. Lovell Jamie Manders, DDS and James M. Riopelle, MD Dr. Robert and Mrs. Beverly Matheney Gail Barnes McKenna Kathleen Mix Gail West Moore Suzanne Parker Dr. Byron and Mrs. Suzanne Scott

Jessica Serrano Olga G. Smoak Sonda Stacey Leslie Stokes Phyllis Taylor Janée M. Tucker Anna and A.J. Tusa Gerri and Murray Valene Sunae Villavaso Toni Van Zandt Erica Washington Cathie Weinstein Vanessa Guidry Whipple Pamela and Warner Williams Constance Cowart Young Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Joan Zaslow *Members as of September 13, 2023

Laurie Guimont, BRAVO President N E W O R L E A N S B A L L E T A S S O C I AT I O N 2 0 2 3 - 2 4

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BRAVO Annual Gala

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elebrating 35 years of service, BRAVO, the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization, and its dedicated members have organized some of the community’s most anticipated and noteworthy annual galas and fundraising events to raise muchneeded operating support for NOBA’s programming. NOBA extends its sincere gratitude to all BRAVO members, and especially the incredible chairmen who have offered countless hours, hard work, creativity and boundless support to continually create such memorable events.

Kicking off last season’s Gala events, on April 26, 2023, Benefactor Dinner Chairs Charlotte Bollinger and Gregory Curtis welcomed patrons to the exclusive dinner, themed “An April Evening in Paris,” sponsored by the Windsor Court Hotel. The elegant evening honored longtime NOBA board member Cynthia LeBreton for her many years of service, dedication and extensive fundraising efforts for NOBA. The threecourse dinner by Executive Chef Vlad Kogan was held in the Chinoiserie Ballroom with wine and champagne provided by Estates & Wines—the Moët Hennessy Wine Division and entertainment by harpist Rachel Van Voorhees. Prior to dinner, guests enjoyed cocktails and Parisian and French Acadian musical stylings by Will Robichaux with guests. A live auction of an incredibly generous package by Windsor Court Hotel, Lee

Michaels Fine Jewelry, which also provided stunning gifts for Benefactors to take home, and Gallery Rinard closed the evening.

The celebrations continued on May 18, 2023, as BRAVO, NOBA, and Chair Teresa Guzzetta, welcomed guests to the annual Gala event at Gallier Hall. The Art in Motion: Danse de Jardin evening began with a special patron party hosted by David and Geneva Kerstein at 625 St. Charles Avenue for Benefactor and Patron level guests. Chaired by Stephanie Burks and Sandra Chaisson, guests were greeted by Grammy Award winning musician Craig Klein and Friends at the entrance and treated to specialty floral cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and a Whispering Angel angel serving rosé. For the Gala, the Jardin came to life from the very first steps of the “green” carpet, which featured incredible, surrealsized topiaries by artist Adrien Broom, arranged by Martine Chaisson Gallery, and pink azaleas by Dunn and Sonnier Antiques and Florals, and allowed guest to show off their high-fashion nod to all things botanical to the cameras. Once inside, guests enjoyed an exquisite dinner by the Hyatt Regency New Orleans’ 1718 Events with entertainment by Gabrielle Cavassa with stunning centerpieces by Dunn and Sonnier.

The night also featured a silent auction, dancing to DJ FTK, dessert and coffee, and posing in the 360 photobooth.

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Please Mark Your Calendars for

The Triple Crown

A trio of spectacular, exclusive events celebrating our star patrons & international Main Stage artist guests.

For more information or to become involved, please contact (504) 522-0996 x208 or fmartin@nobadance.com.

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PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

January 19, 2024 — Reception with Compañia Nacional de Danza celebrating Spain and New Orleans, The Cabildo February 20, 2024 — The Benefactor Dinner honoring Charlotte Bollinger, Windsor Court Hotel March 1, 2024 — Immersive Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo LAC Performance and Reception, Mahalia Jackson Theater

1. Cynthia LeBreton, Charlotte Bollinger, Steve Friedman 2. John Mitchell, Andree Bahan, Ralph Mahana, Gregory Curtis 3. Lisa Alexis, David Kerstein, Dottie Belletto 4. Ryan Burks, Laurie Guimont, Gerri and Murray Valene 5. Liz Reyes, Teresa Guzzetta 6. Mehdi Natanzi, Stephanie Burks, Stephen Sonnier 7. Lisa Baudot, Sandra Chaisson 8. Gail and Warren McKenna 9. Martine Chaisson Linares, Melissa Coleman, Ginger Guzzetta Touzet 10. Conny and Casey Willems, Gayle Dellinger 11. Madison, Marilyn and Glen Smith 12. Marian Gibbs, Jacquee Carvin, Liz Broekman, Monique Doucette 13. Gwendolyn Hager, Jenny Hamilton, Deborah Alciatore 14. Raven Palmer, Nicole Ferrier, Sylvia Vellino, Mariah Bencik 15. Joan Zaslow, Vanessa and Chad Berg

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Prix d’Elegance Awards Luncheon

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Women of Fashion Officers and Board Front row (l to r) Suzanne Parker, Sandra Chaisson, Gerri Valene, Virginia Eckholdt, Kathy Pastorek, Rhonda Eckholdt, Faith Peperone, Debbie Buchler, Tiffa Boutté, Gail McKenna Second row (l to r) Millie Davis Kohn, Nicole Ferrier, Holley Haag, Kathleen Edmundson, Shelly Hoddinott Richardson, Melanie Cannatella, Jennifer Amedee, Marian Gibbs, Debbie Alciatore, Jamie Moreau

Men of Fashion Board Members and Officers (first row, l to r) Steven Trotter, Joey S. DiFatta, Leon L. Giorgio, R.K. Hoddinott, III, Bobby Asaro (second row, l to r) Kenneth Rubenstein, Michael Hecht, Murray Valene (third row, l to r) Carl Panebiango, Leo Palazzo, Jeff Chouest, Jr., Roger Javier, Todd Murphy, Kenneth Pickering

On behalf of all past honorees and our dedicated and gracious committee members, I am proud to contribute to their longstanding legacy of impactful community service through the arts. We have fun at this luncheon, and we are pleased to share that joy and build the next generation of community leaders through our support of NOBA’s accessible, free youth dance and wellness classes and advanced study opportunities.”

With signature New Orleans style and generosity, this year’s Prix d’Elegance Awards Luncheon will again showcase the Men and Women of Fashion’s fashion-forward brand of giving back. For more information about attending or donating to this event, please contact the NOBA office at 504-522-0996x208 or fmartin@nobadance.com.

PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

n April 23, 2024, one of the year’s most prestigious giving events takes its choice cause to the catwalk for the annual Men and Women of Fashion Prix d’Elegance Luncheon and Fashion Show in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel. Each year, the Men and Women of Fashion organizations honor 20 individuals in our community who exemplify unique personal style as well as excellence and generosity through business, civic and charitable endeavors. Additionally, two honorees — one man and one woman from the memberships of both organizations — are inducted into the Hall of Fame for their sustained contributions to Men and Women of Fashion and upholding the groups’ mission.

This year’s event will be chaired by Gerri Valene and Sandra Chaisson. On their behalf, Valene remarks, “On April 23, we will celebrate and recognize those individuals who are not only fashionable influencers, but who are also leaders and supporters who provide time, commitment and service to our community. It is through their generous dedication, work ethic and donations that programs like those provided by NOBA are able to succeed…’BRAVO’ to all of our honorees!”

From 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., what is now a recordbreaking attendance of over 700 top business and community leaders will mix-and-mingle at a champagne reception followed by an upscale silent auction, a raffle, a savory three-course lunch and a performance by students of the Center for Dance.

Women of Fashion Board Chair Tiffa Boutté shares, “Our event showcases our Men and Women of Fashion recipients and a fantastic fashion show generously produced by Rebecca Nordgren of Chatta Box and Jeff Chouest of Jeff’s Haberdashery. While I always look forward to the fashion show, it’s also incredible to see past honorees of this award, spanning so many years, still supporting this event and stepping out in their finest.” Men of Fashion Board Chair Lee Giorgio adds, “As Emerson said, ‘Never lose an opportunity to see anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting.’ The Men and Women of Fashion believe in embracing this richness of spirit. We must create opportunities because they don’t just happen.

‘Generosity is giving more than we can and pride is taking less than we need,’ said Khalil Gibran. We thank our supporters who help the talented create beauty around us, for we are ‘restoring our souls’ while assisting NOBA in making a positive difference.”

For Women of Fashion President Rhonda Eckholdt, the organization and its recipients’ five decade plus legacies speaks to their worthy partnership. She shares, “Like Men and Women of Fashion, NOBA has dedicated over 50 years to serving our city’s families.

Joey DiFatta, Kathy Pastorek, Debbie Alciatore, Jeff Chouest, Jr.

Lee Giorgio, Sandra Chaisson, Gayle Benson, John Duck

Vince Giardina, Rebecca Nordgren, David Adams

Leo Palazzo, Tiffa Boutté, Pam Williams, Chad Berg

Carlos Hornbrook, Barbara Burvant, R.K. Hoddinott, III, Shelley Hoddinott Richardson

Faith Peperone, Virginia Eckholdt, Rhonda Eckholdt, LeeAnne Leopold

Murray Valene, Laurie Guimont, Teresa Guzzetta, Stephen Sonnier

Students of the Center for Dance performing on the runway at the Prix d’Elegance N E W O R L E A N S B A L L E T A S S O C I AT I O N 2 0 2 3 - 2 4

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Institutional Investors

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he New Orleans Ballet Association gratefully acknowledges the following contributions received between September 29, 2022, and September 21, 2023. Due to the limitations of space, we unfortunately are not able to acknowledge all supporters. Please know that each and every gift is equally appreciated. We make every effort to ensure an accurate listing. Should you find an error, please contact the Development Office at 504-522-0996 or fmartin@nobadance.com. Thank you! *Contributions include the value of both cash and in-kind gifts.

PREMIERE CIRCLE ($100,000+) Ballet Resource And Volunteer Organization (BRAVO) Foxmor, LLC Friends of NORD, Inc. Hyatt Regency New Orleans Lois & Lloyd Hawkins, Jr. Foundation Louisiana Economic Development Men of Fashion New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund Women of Fashion

Newcomb Dance Program, Tulane University Department of Theatre and Dance NOCCI New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc. New Orleans Theatre Association Ogletree Deakins Pan-American Life Insurance Group The Pamela and Warner Williams Charitable Fund Renaissance Publishing, LLC WWLTV

PRINCIPALS ($50,000-$99,999)

LEADERS ($5,000-$9,999)

The Helis Foundation National Endowment for the Arts Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Windsor Court Hotel

610 Stompers Give Back Chatta Box Boutique—Rebecca Nordgren Clayton-Royer Family Fund of the Baton Rouge Area Foundation Conrad Williams Family Charitable Fund Exxon-Mobil Fund of the Greater New Orleans Foundation Gallery Rinard—Matt and Cam Rinard The Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation Goldring Family Foundation | Woldenberg Foundation Jeff’s Haberdashery—Jeff Chouest, Jr. New Orleans Pelicans Patrick F. Taylor Foundation RosaMary Foundation RYCARS, Inc. St. Charles Avenue Magazine The Tegna Foundation

UNDERWRITERS ($25,000-$49,999) Adams & Reese, LLP Chalmette Refining Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s Greater New Orleans Foundation/GiveNOLA Day Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry Louisiana Division of the Arts MaggieGeorge Foundation

BENEFACTORS ($10,000-$24,999) Arts New Orleans, made possible by City of New Orleans Capital One Downtown Development District Dunn & Sonnier Antiques and Flowers Elms Mansion—Jessica Serrano Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA

PARTNERS ($2,500-$4,999) Alvendia, Kelly and Demarest Law Firm Angel Wings Foundation

The Audubon Group at Morgan Stanley Raine Bedsole, arranged by Callan Contemporary Gallery Belle Chasse Marine Transportation —Lana W. Konrad Charlotte Bollinger through the Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana The Fertel Foundation, recommended

by Rien Fertel The Gaudet Fund of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana ILSI Engineering—Iam Tucker Jefferson Parish Department of Parks and Recreation Joyce LaPorte Fine Art LSU AgCenter Michael and Megan Manning through Schwab Charitable New Orleans Center for Creative Arts New Orleans Hispanic Heritage Foundation Strout Photography

ASSOCIATES ($1,000-$2,499) Alexa Pulitzer Bank of America Matching Gift Program Barbara S. Beckman Fund BCI Bonneté, Importer of Wines & Spirits from France— Frerejean Freres Champagne, Beatrice Germaine Beje Wholesale Diamonds Blessings and Hope Fund managed by The Pinebelt Foundation Carimi Construction and Development Carl E. Panebiango Family Foundation Coleman Dermatology Corporate Lighting & Audio DMM & Associates, LLC Estella’s Home Faustermann Designs FELLOW - Menswear

PHOTO S BY JEFF STROUT

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WWLTV Tegna Grant Presentation by Monica Resh and Tod Smith with Gregory Curtis, Jenny Hamilton, and Center for Dance students

Fidelity Bank First Horizon Bank J. Edgar Monroe Foundation Louisiana Seafood Martine Chaisson Gallery Moёt & Hennessy Portfolio: Estates & Wines New Orleans Chamber of Commerce— Sandra Lombana Lindquist Omega Production Resource, LLC Kenneth E. Pickering, Attorney at Law Stella Jones Gallery Southern Oaks Plantation, Inc.—Bobby Asaro Tiger Equipment & Supply Company Van der Linden Family Foundation

SUSTAINERS ($500-$999) Adler’s Briquette Centerplate—Steve Trotter Hedgewood Plastic Surgery—Dr. Christian Jacob Hilton Riverside New Orleans Keesler Federal Credit Union Louisiana Society of Hearing Aid Specialists Mardi Gras Creations—Mamta Melwani New Orleans Athletic Club NOLA Hotel Group Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans Roosevelt Hotel Studio K Lee West London, Btq. Yield Giving

CONTRIBUTORS ($100-$499)

Beau Chene Country Club Café Degas Carubba Engineering Champion Graphics, Inc. Charvet’s Garden Center Chateau Golf and Country Club Chevron Matching Employee Fund Commander’s Palace Cristy Cali Jewelry Cypress Lakes Country Club Dental Arts of New Orleans Dominique Giordano Jewelry Design Downtown Fitness Center Drink Lab NOLA English Turn Golf and Country Club Fore!Kids Foundation—Zurich Classic Friends of City Park Happy Raptor Distillery Kendra Scott Lauren Seago Art Collection Le Petit Theatre de Vieux Carre Le Visage Day Spa Marigny Opera Ballet

Everett Woods, Gregory Curtis, Sunae Villavaso, Davon Barbour

Maurice French Pastries Metairie Small Animal Clinic Mikimoto Japanese Restaurant Mosca’s Restaurant The Krewe of Muses Foundation National WWII Museum Pat Garin Photographer, LLC The Perry Ferran St Raymond Foundation —Donna Kay Berger Preservation Resource Center Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers Reagan Charleston Jewelry The Red M Studio Rock ‘n’ Bowl/Ye Olde College Inn Saffron NOLA Saying Kids—Jennifer Amedee SOSUSU Spa Isbell Starlight Ballroom Dance Studio SWOOT by Jon Sloan Fitness Symmetry Jewelers and Designers Weinstein’s

PHOTO S BY JEFF STROUT

Antiques on Jackson Aucoin Hart Jewelers Audubon Dermatology Ballin’s, LTD Basic’s Underneath Fine Lingerie | Swim & Gym

David and Geneva Kerstein

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Individual Donors

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OBA extends its gratitude to its generous donors. The following contributions were received between September 29, 2022, and September 21, 2023. Due to the limitations of space, we unfortunately are not able to acknowledge all supporters. Please know that each and every gift is equally appreciated. We make every effort to ensure an accurate listing. Should you find an error, please contact the Development Office at 504-522-0996 or fmartin@nobadance.com. Thank you! *Contributions include the value of both cash and in-kind gifts.

ETOILES ($10,000+) Deborah Alciatore Gayle M. Benson Chad and Vanessa Berg Gregory Curtis John M. and Renea Duck John (Gregor) M. Fox and Camille Patti Marian and Larry Gibbs Henrietta and Terence E. Hall Jenny R. Hamilton and Ewell Smith Jeffrey Pounds Murray and Gerri Valene Pamela and Warner Williams

PLATINUM CIRCLE ($5,000-$9,999) David Lee Adams Dottie Belletto Charlotte Bollinger Tiffa and Kerry Boutté Stephanie and Ryan Burks Joel T. and Sandra Chaisson, II Kerry Clayton and Paige Royer Nancy D’Amico Adrian Diaconu, arranged

by Peter O’Neill Gallery Rosalyn Ditta and Rusty Gaudé Jay H. “Timber” and Peggy Floyd Sandra Herman Susan L. Krinsky Hon. Henry Lambert and Mr. Carey Bond Cynthia LeBreton Leo and Dana Palazzo Justin A. Reese Adrea Heebe Russo

Donna and Vince Giardina

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Dr. Byron and Mrs. Suzanne Scott Glen and Marilyn Smith Phyllis M. Taylor Conny and Casey Willems Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Joan Zaslow

CHOREOGRAPHERS ($2,500-$4,999) Jacquee Carvin Melissa and Dr. William Patrick Coleman, IV Gayle Dellinger Joey DiFatta Terry and Lynette DuFrene Steven and Bethany Friedman Leon L. Giorgio, Jr. Cathy Green Valerie M. Grubb Laurie Guimont Teresa Guzzetta Deborah Harkins Kim Hasney R.K. Hoddinott, III and Shelley Hoddinott Richardson Willis A. and Mary Lovell Suma Maddox, MD FACS— Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Dr. Warren and Mrs. Gail McKenna Max Moreno Charlie Thomas

Carey Bond, Toni Van Zandt, Henry Lambert

Chad and Vanessa Berg, State Ballet of Georgia Artistic Director Nina Ananiashvili and Maestro Gavriel Heine

PATRONS ($1,000-$2,499) Mickal Adler Ronn Babin and Peter Jolet Penny L. Baumer Mariah Walton Bencik

Steve and Bethany Friedman

Dottie Belletto, Claus Sadlier, Lynette and Terry DuFrene

Kerry Clayton, Kara Webster, Paige Royer, and Peter Schenk

PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

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Jacquee Carvin, Martine Linares, Sandra Chaisson

Henry Bernstein Taryn Christine Brown Jeff and Carol Chouest, Jr. Craig Clark Richard DiCarlo Johnny L. Domiano, Jr. Raymond and Marja Falk Vincent and Donna Giardina Joanna Giorlando Andrew W. Gottschalk, MD Monique Gougisha and Jason Doucette Gwendolyn Hager Dr. Byron Hammer Kathleen Hebert Carlos Hornbrook Bernard M. Jaffe, MD Christine and Roger Javier Drs. Rupa and Tarun Jolly Dr. Don Kern Millie Davis Kohn Ruth Lawson Thomas E. Loehn Wendy Rodrigue Magnus Jamie Manders, DDS and James M. Riopelle, MD Suzanne L. Parker Kathy and Paul Pastorek Michael Phillips Dr. Stephanie Repasky Sandy Rosenthal Gregory Rusovich James Schoen Stacy Seamon and The Seamon Family Mr. Gregory and Mrs. Betty Speyrer LaVerne Saulny Toombs Ginger Guzzetta and Pierre Touzet Anna and A.J. Tusa Hon. Janis van Meerveld Toni Van Zandt Vanessa Guidry Whipple

Pam and Warner Williams, Stephanie Burks

Cecile Gibson, Marja and Ray Falk, Helen Flammer

Joycelyn Reynolds, Dr. Laura Westbrook

BENEFACTORS ($500-$999) Susan Benedetto C.J. Blanda David Boudreaux, MD and Mr. Richard Nesbitt Melanie Cannatella, Gerri Valene, Dana Palazzo 48

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PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

EVERYTHING YOU expect, MORE THAN YOU imagine.

As the premier events hotel in New Orleans, Hyatt Regency New Orleans offers everything you need for a spectacular event or a weekend staycation. New Orleans Ballet Association has always been a great community partner and will contest to our over 30 years of experience creating lavish and elegant affairs, our special events team will work with you every step of the way to ensure a flawless and memorable event or stay.

For more information, call 504 613 3900 or visit neworleans.hyatt.com HYATT REGENCY NEW ORLEANS 601 Loyola Avenue New Orleans, LA 70113 N E W O R L E A N S B A L L E T A S S O C I AT I O N 2 0 2 3 - 2 4

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Elizabeth Broekman Debbie Buchler Judith F. Burrus Trevor Colhoun and Cecile Villere Cheryl Cotton Lindsay Craft Yolanda Doucette Dr. Gregory and Mrs. Rhonda Eckholdt Kathleen Edmundson Bonnie Eubanks Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Fantaci Eric France Tatine Frater Marie-Cécile Gibson Cathy Glaser Harold and Ellie Harper Brandon Haynie and Sanja Alickovic David and Geneva Kerstein Rosie and Bret LeBreton LeeAnne Leopold Martine and Juan Linares Olga Mescherskaya Stan and Laurie Miller Patrick Murphree Tammy O’Shea Raven and Jared Palmer Ashton Rangel Dr. Taavi and Mrs. Charlotte Reiss Mark E. Schneider and Michelle Charvet Sammy Steele, III Judith Swenson Janée M. Tucker Erica J. Washington Raymond and Lisa Washington Daniel Weidner Cathie Choppin and Alan Weinstein Joseph Young, Jr.

Bernard Van der Linden and Jennie Flynn Sauviac

Jason and Monique Doucette

Cynthia LeBreton, Dallas Alleman, David Workman, Dodd Denton, Brent Guarisco, Chris Cameron

SUSTAINERS ($250-$499) Sarah Abrusley Dallas Alleman Jennifer Amedee Cynthia Aucoin

Matt Rinard, Charlie Thomas

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Conny Cowart Young, Laurie Guimont, Gail McKenna, Dottie Reese, Nicole Ferrier, Sandra Herman

Jim Schoen, Taryn Brown

Lisa Romano and Millette Lin at Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s 5th Anniversary Celebration PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

Breakfast | Brunch | Lunch | Dinner Reservations | 504.522.1994

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Barbara Ballard Lauren Buggs Melanie Cannatella Renee Carrere Teri Case Hon. Kevin J. Centanni Hon. Jacquelyn B. Clarkson Mary Virginia “Ginger” Crawford Palette Dybel Julian Feibelman and Joan Hooper Nicole Ferrier Carolyn Fortino Betsie Gambel Billy Gaudet Julie Livaudais George Holley Haag Carol V. Hall Karen Humphrey Morris Kahn Dropadi Kewalramini Dr. Robert and Mrs. Beverly Matheney Kay McArdle Dr. Ronald Lee Nichols Joan Olsen Celeste Peraino Paula Polito Erin Reidy Joycelyn Reynolds James Roberson Cesily Roberts Kenneth Rubenstein Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Sakauye Laura Sanders Claude and Mimi Schlesinger Carol Short David R. Silvers, MD Mr. Alfred and Mrs. Sonda Stacey Adam Stierwald Reginald and Darlene Thomas Lynne Uhalt Sylvia Vellino D. Brent and Lele Wood Donnell Zeringue

Laurie Young, Dr. Tracy Lemelle-Christope, Janis van Meeveld, Monique Christophe McConduit

Ewell Smith, Brent and Lele Wood

Dr. Jane Miller, Val Grubb, Karen Villavaso

CONTRIBUTORS ($100-$249) Maricarmen Aldana Amanda Anderson Davon Barbour Toni Becnel Terese Bennett Margarita Bergen Anna Borgen Jan Breaux Laquita Brooks Dr. Georgia Bryant John Chaisson Seth Chazanoff Kathy M. Christian Susan and Craig Clasen 52

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Gee Tucker, Councilmember Eugene J. Green, Sandra Green Thomas, Debra Moran-Reimonenq PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

Dr. Jane Clayton Dr. Chuck and Mrs. Lorraine Cucchiara Ellen Dornier Lorena Dumas-Guntner Ronald Durnford Marlene Duronslet Virginia Eckholdt Wanda W. Fulton Mary Frances Gardner, MD Cheryl and Joseph Georgusis Ana Gershanik Lois B. Gioe Chef Jason Goodenough James Guilbeau Jennifer Hayes Dawn Herrington Nancy Iovino Janet Johlgren Dr. Lyndia Jones Tina Jones Jane Kahn Jennie Kasten Tosin King Alice E. Kraemer Mary Lakey Gladys LeBreton Sidney Levin Pat Macaluso Danielle McAllister Sue McNabb Kathleen N. Mix Gail West Moore Jamie Moreau Connie Nagim Dr. Lynne Neitzschman Debra Neveu Nell Nolan and Robert Young Mr. and Mrs. Chris O’Sullivan Sophia Pappas Pat Paternostro Faith Peperone Jane Robbins Jean Rice Alan Rubin Ann Salzer Helen Schneidau Dr. Janet Schmid Rev. Carol Spencer Carol Stone Michelle Suter Mr. and Mrs. Paul Tassin Astra Thibodeaux Kathleen Van Horn Brian Walsh Fay Wartelle Jimmie C. Wickham Kathleen Williams Karen Kraak Wood

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Erica Washington, Sylvia Vellino, Sara Lewis, Jessica Serrano

Cecile Gibson, Cynthia LeBreton, Jim Melancon, Gayle Dellinger

Ray Bruce, Jacqueline Simon, Steven Quarls

Drs. Tarun and Rupa Jolly

Elizabeth Broekman, Sunni LeBeouf

Gregory Curtis, Dottie Belletto

Vanessa and Chad Berg, Cathy Green PHOTOS BY JEFF STROUT

COMMEMORATIVE GIVING

NUTCRACKER LEGACY FUND DONORS

In Honor of Deborah Alciatore Jane Kahn

Land of Sweets $500-$999

In Memory of Ms. Charline “Salemah” Broussard Linda Banks

Sugarplum $250-$499

In Honor of Sandra Stage Chaisson Mr. and Mrs. Stan Miller In Honor of Rosalyn Ditta Gaudé Jay H. “Timber” and Peggy Floyd In Honor of Cynthia LeBreton Barbara Beckman Craig and Susan Ripley Clasen Mr. Julian Feibelman and Ms. Joan Hooper Jenny Hamilton Adrea Heebe Russo Tatine Frater Cathy Glaser Robert LeBreton Rosie and Bret LeBreton Elizabeth Murov Claude and Mimi Schlesinger Conrad Williams Family Charitable Fund In Honor of Mr. Cedric Martin Ms. Dawn Herrington In Honor of Stan Melancon Babette Hiles In Honor of Ewell Smith Cheryl Lemoine Lisa Manda Harlon Pearce In Honor of her Mother Joyce Zopolsky *Donations received between October 4, 2022, and September 14, 2023

Toni Van Zandt

Tiffa Boutté Sandra Stage Chaisson Millie Davis and Robert Kohn

Holiday Stocking Donors $10-$24 Barbara Ballard Lisa Baudot Rupa Jolly

Special thanks to Ousier and Clairee Millinery

Snowflake Donors $100-$249

Susan Benedetto Charlotte Bollinger Elizabeth Broekman Kathy M. Christian Gayle Dellinger Marlene Duronslet Joanna Giorlando Laurie Guimont Henrietta and Terence Hall Gail West Moore Erin Reidy Dr. Byron and Mrs. Suzanne Scott Marilyn Smith Sonda Stacey Janée M. Tucker Gerri and Murray Valene Erica Washington

Holiday Tree Donors $75-$99

Charlotte Bollinger, Tiffa Boutté and Susan Benedetto with a new tutu made possible by the Nutcracker Legacy Fund. PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN.

Taryn Christine Brown Gwendolyn C. Hager Martine Chaisson Linares

Candy Cane Donors $50-$74 Lou Bartolo Stephanie and Ryan Burks Bradley Feichter Marian Gibbs Teresa Guzzetta Sandra Herman Beverly Matheney Dr. Jane C. Miller Elsa Mims Max Moreno Tammy O’Shea Suzanne Parker

Holiday Bow Donors $25-$49

Lisa Alexis, LaVerne Toombs, Raven Palmer, Sandra Herman, Stephanie Burks, Sue McNabb and Alana Harris at the BRAVO Holiday Social held at Gallier Hall to raise funds for the Nutcracker Legacy. PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN.

Margarita Bergen Ann Duplessis Virginia Eckholdt Triness Kuhn Jamie Manders, DDS and James M. Riopelle, MD Tammy O’Shea Darlene and Reginald Thomas LaVerne Saulny Toombs Joan Zaslow Darlene Thomas, Millie Davis Kohn.

Photo by Millette Lin.

Max Moreno, Margarita Bergen, Antonio Genao, Joan Zaslow, Mayra Pineda, Ana Gershanik, Blanca Maldonado, Hector Pineda. PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT.

Invest in the Future

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our investment in NOBA’s programs directly touches the lives of all those whom we serve. With your support, we will continue (1) to fulfill our vital role in the international dance community by presenting, producing and commissioning dance and providing resources to artists and (2) to sustain our nationally recognized education, health and wellness programs of over 5,500 annual tuition-free activities by a phenomenal faculty of local and guest artists.

GIFTS OF ANY AMOUNT TRULY MAKE A DIFFERENCE. $20 will supply a pair of ballet or jazz shoes to a child $50 will provide a student’s full uniform of leotard, tights and shoes $200 underwrites the cost of a new costume for The Nutcracker Suite

“We believe strongly in the value that NOBA adds to the New Orleans community. The completely free dance training for people of all ages, coupled with the exposure to world-class dance performances make a lasting impact on the people—children especially—of this city, as well as its culture.

We are proud to support NOBA and its mission.”

—Camille Patti and Gregor Fox

SUSTAINING GIFTS Become a NOBA Monthly Sustainer and join the growing number of supporters who have generously decided to make easy, convenient and automatic monthly gifts of any amount that provide a sound foundation for each season and for NOBA’s future.

PRESENTERS CIRCLE CLUB GIFTS Join the Presenters Circle Club and help us keep world-class dance on New Orleans’ stages. Presenters Circle Club includes those donors who contribute a minimum of $1,000 toward the annual campaign, separate from other designated funds or campaigns. Members receive VIP parking and invitations to exclusive events as well as the VIP Wine Intermission Receptions at Main Stage performances at the Mahalia Jackson Theater.

MEMORIAL/IN HONOR OF GIFTS Whether a gift in memory of a friend or a loved one or a commemoration of a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or an important milestone, these gifts are a wonderful way to pay tribute to those whom we hold dear. NOBA will send a beautiful card to the honored person or family notifying them of your thoughtfulness.

BRAVO The Ballet Resource And Volunteer Organization is a powerful force of nearly 200 who “FUN-raise” for NOBA. Find out how you can become involved on pages 37-41.

GIFTS IN-KIND Help us reduce our costs through the donation of non-cash gifts delivered in the forms of goods, services, or expertise. Some examples include office supplies; bottled water and healthy snacks for students; art, jewelry and accessories, or restaurant gift certificates for silent auctions or raffles at BRAVO’s fundraising events and pro bono services such as catering, photography or graphic design.

CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP Demonstrate your company’s commitment to the community and boost your marketing efforts with a winning sponsorship. NOBA offers a variety of special benefits for our corporate partners, and opportunities are available at many levels.

MATCHING GIFTS The impact of your gift to NOBA may be doubled or possibly tripled! Many companies sponsor matching gift programs that will match any charitable contributions made by their employees, retirees and/or spouses.

PLANNED GIFTS A planned gift represents the ultimate gift from one’s estate, including simple bequests in one’s will, charitable remainder trusts, unitrusts, charitable lead trusts and gifts of insurance. These gift vehicles offer benefits that might include an income for life for the donor or designated beneficiary, a significant charitable tax-deduction or the ability to reduce the taxable portion of one’s estate while having the satisfaction of making a charitable gift. NOBA recommends you speak with your financial advisor to develop the best method that will complement your estate’s needs.

NAMING OPPORTUNITIES AND ENDOWMENT Your gift can keep giving through major gifts in your name to a capital campaign for bricks and mortar, commissions of new artistic works, dedicated scholarships for youth programs, and investments in NOBA’s endowment held at the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

GIFTS OF STOCK NOBA gratefully accepts gifts of stock valued at any amount. Often times, a gift of appreciated stock may significantly reduce your capital gains tax while creating a larger charitable deduction.

FACEBOOK Facebook makes it easy to support NOBA anytime you browse. Simply visit facebook.com/nobadance and click “Donate.” You can also create your own Fundraiser for Friends or start a giving campaign on your own page for NOBA.

Front (l to r): Georgia Flemming, Millie Borne Back (l to r): Robin Bordelon Borne, Henrietta Hall, Gayle Dellinger by Jeff Strout 58

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Please help us continue our work to make sure that dance remains a vital part of the cultural fabric of this great city. For more information or to make your donation, contact us at 504-522-0996x208 or fmartin@nobadance.com.

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