As our 16-17 season draws to a close, I find myself inspired beyond measure. I am inspired by the artistry Ballet Arizona’s company dancers reveal each performance. I am inspired by Phoenix’s evolution into an artistic and cultural hub for all of Arizona to enjoy. Most of all, I find myself inspired by you.
You have taught me how powerful one person can be. Your contributions inspire our artistic vision and help support Ballet Arizona financially. However, the gift of your time, voice and passion are equally important.
You are our voice. One individual shared her love of ballet while having a small conversation with her doctor during a routine office visit. The doctor was inspired by her patient’s passion for ballet and decided to attend Romeo & Juliet in February, and returned again to see Today’s Masters in March. The doctor has now joined our donor family as a member of the Corps de Ballet Circle of Support. A simple conversation turned someone who didn’t know about our presence into a ticket buyer and proud contributor to our cause.
You tell our story best. Your love of ballet and passion for the arts make you our best storytellers. How many times do you find yourself making conversation while you are in line at the grocery store or making small talk at a service appointment? Merely mentioning “I’m going to the ballet,” opens up a whole world of opportunity for telling our story and yours. The simple act of letting people know that Phoenix has an incredible, professional ballet company right in their own community, whether they be new to the Valley or just haven’t engaged with ballet before, is powerful and very inspiring.
You are our greatest advocates. Advocating for the arts is incredibly important, now more than ever. Arts funding and education are being looked at critically on the national level, budgetary cuts to NEA funding will drastically impact the future of this organization and ballet itself. Vital NEA funding sources for Ballet Arizona are at risk. We ask you to reach out to your congressional or senate representatives and inspire them to fight against eliminating funding for the arts.
You are family. At Ballet Arizona, you are a huge part of our family! If I haven’t had the pleasure of meeting you yet, I would be so grateful if you said hello at an upcoming performance or event. I value the opportunity to learn about you and what draws you to Ballet Arizona. I look forward to growing our relationship, learning more about each other, and continuing to inspire one another through this beautiful art form we all hold so dear.
We need your help to continue to thrive in the Valley. As you see opportunities during the course of your day, I humbly as that you spread the word about Ballet Arizona. Is there someone new in your neighborhood? Invite them to join you at a performance. Spreading the word will help us reach new patrons, who will in turn become supporters. Exchanging pleasantries at a social event? Share that one of your favorite interests is Ballet Arizona. A quick word is often just enough to spark interest.
The power of one, the power of you, has singular influence on our future. I cannot thank you enough for your support.
About Samantha Turner: Samantha Turner is a leader in both the non-profit and corporate sectors, with expertise in marketing and business management. Before Samantha was appointed executive director, she served three years as Ballet Arizona’s director of marketing, achieving record sales revenues twice during that tenure.
Prior to joining Ballet Arizona, Turner held leadership roles in both non-profit and Fortune 500 companies. Most recently she served as head of business operations and finance for CAP21, a New York-based non-profit performing arts organization. Turner’s for-profit career includes high-level marketing and business management roles at Aflac, Assurant and other organizations of national and regional scope. In addition to her professional experience, Samantha holds MBAs in marketing and international business/ecommerce, and an undergraduate degree in broadcast journalism.
