Q: What first brought you to Ballet Arizona?

I had the opportunity to attend a rehearsal and the beauty, talent, and athleticism of the dancers amazed me.

Q: How did you become involved with BAZ’s Prima Circle?

I was on the Board of Ballet Arizona, and one of the committees I was working on was the Prima Circle committee. Currently, I am Chair of the Prima Circle Committee. Over the last few years the committee has worked very hard over to expand the benefits of being a Prima Circle member. I am most excited about our Prima Circle Evenings prior to Studio Spotlights where we provide access to the dancers and Ib as we discuss the upcoming ballets over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres.

Q: What is your favorite Prima Circle benefit?

The Prima Circle events we create prior to the Studio Spotlights. I really enjoy that Ib and the dancers are accessible to all Prima Circle Members. And, of course, I always like to see what cocktail Natalie Salvione (BAZ’s Development Associate) will dream up for the events.

Q: What are you looking most forward to during the 17-18 Season?

I always enjoy the Today’s Masters program. I am a very creative person, so I find it fascinating to watch Ib and the dancers take a random piece of music and create something new and beautiful.

Ricardo Santo in Ib Andersen’s Rio. Photo by Alexander Iziliaev.

Q: Do you have a favorite ballet? Why?

No. I usually enjoy anything Ib creates especially when I love the music. One recent favorite was “Rio” set to “Days and Nights “Days and Nights in Rocinha” by Phillip Glass. When I first started volunteering at the ballet I used to ask individual dancers what his/her favorite ballet was, and many told me, “Don Q.”  When I finally saw the ballet, I loved it. I would enjoy seeing it again. Of course, I may have been brainwashed by the dancers!

“Don Quixote”, choreography by Ib Andersen. Photo by Rosalie O’Connor

Q: Other than the ballet, what is your favorite part about Ballet Arizona productions?

The costumes! I used to design handbags, and now I enjoy sewing, so I love to see the costumes. It is always fun to tour the costume shop to check out the costumes being created for an upcoming performance.

Author Kate Groves (wearing white in center) and Ballet Arizona’s Prima Circle Committee Members

About the Author: Kate Groves

Kate Groves is a long time supporter of Ballet Arizona, serving for 4 years on BAZ’s Board. She has also been involved with the Prima Circle committee for the last 5 years. Although she can claim no talents as a ballet dancer, she did study voice for many years and she does love music.