New Things Spring Forth

A Letter from Executive Director, Samantha Turner

Spring is nature’s glorious reminder to us that growth and change are part of the rhythm of life. Cactus flowers are dotting the landscape, demonstrating the beautiful surprises we experience when new things spring forth.

For Ballet Arizona, this spring is full of wonderful opportunities for you to try something new! The world premiere of Juan Gabriel will provide many of us the opportunity to more deeply discover and fall in love with an artist, whose legacy permeates across the world. It is our hope this groundbreaking new work will inspire and spark curiosity among those who have not yet explored the world of ballet. Of course, the excitement continues, as we will end our season at Desert Botanical Garden with Ib Andersen’s re-imagined Round. These performances are a triumphant showcase of what is possible when beauty and innovation come together.

Ballet Arizona is so much more than what you see on stage. In this issue, we spotlight our Performance Hour program, which welcomes students into our home on Washington St to not just experience ballet, but learn about the career possibilities in the arts – on stage, behind the scenes, and in our offices. Who knows what young person might be inspired to try something new – to become a future costume designer, stage manager, or development professional!

Speaking of trying new things, it is time for me to do just that. In a message to you earlier this year, I shared that this would be my last year with Ballet Arizona, after nine wonderful seasons. I am an adventurer, of sorts, and I have been feeling the call to explore something new. With the company in the strongest position in its history, it seems like an ideal time for change and personal growth. I have you to thank for making the ballet what it is today through your generous and steadfast support. I look forward to seeing you all at future performances as I join you as one of Ballet Arizona’s great fans.

Ballet Arizona dancers in Ib Andersen’s “Round” at Desert Botanical Garden. Photo by Alexander Iziliaev.