This past January, Ballet Arizona welcomed supporters, artists, and community leaders to the Arizona Biltmore for the 2026 Dance With Me Gala, an evening that celebrated the power of philanthropy and the individuals who make this work possible.
Chaired by Board Member, Carla Cohen, the event raised more than $500,000 – making it the highest-grossing gala in Ballet Arizona’s history. These funds directly sustain performances, education programs, and community engagement efforts across the Valley.
At the heart of the evening was a tribute to longtime supporters Joan and Charlie Berry, whose extraordinary commitment to Ballet Arizona spans four decades. Joan, a founding board member, played a pivotal role in the 1986 merger of three small companies that became Ballet Arizona. From the very beginning, Joan and Charlie believed in what ballet could be in this community, and their investment of time, leadership, and generosity helped bring that vision to life.
Their impact is both far-reaching and deeply personal. Known for their warmth, authenticity, and passion for the art form, Joan and Charlie have introduced countless individuals to ballet, sparking curiosity and building lasting connections. Their support has opened doors for dancers, students, and families – creating opportunities that extend far beyond the stage.
They have also played an important role in shaping Ballet Arizona’s artistic future. As champions of new work and creative development, Joan and Charlie understand that sustaining the art form requires both honoring tradition and investing in what comes next. Their support has helped bring new choreography to life, including serving as producing sponsors of Nayon Iovino’s first full-length story ballet, Moving Movies – a reflection of their belief in artistic innovation. That same commitment continues into the upcoming season, where they will serve as sponsors of Don Quixote.
For those within the Ballet Arizona community, their presence has set a powerful example. Their commitment reflects a belief that supporting the arts is not a single act, but an ongoing investment in people, creativity, and possibility. It is a legacy defined not only by generosity, but by the relationships they have built and the lives they have touched.
As Ballet Arizona approaches its 40th anniversary, the Dance With Me Gala served as a powerful reminder that the organization’s strength lies in the dedication of supporters like Joan and Charlie, whose impact continues to shape its future.
