All Current News Back to News & Press Releases

Feb 17, 2023

Native hoop dance coaches preserve history, tradition with new generation

PHOENIX — Indigenous hoop dance combines tradition and history with creativity and individuality. Commonly passed down from one generation to the next, hoop dance is usually taught by a family member or close friend. Read More >

Jan 4, 2023

‘They would not stop clapping:’ Arizona ballet spotlighting Mexican icon Juan Gabriel breaks records

Luis Javier Corrales turned a small wooden table inside his grandparents’ kitchen in Havana, Cuba into a kid-sized stage with space for one co-star —  a singer from Parácuaro, México with a voice that inspired him to dance. Read More >

Dec 12, 2022

Best Outdoor Performance- Round

It’s easy to take the beauty of the Sonoran Desert for granted, surrounded as we are by its alluring textures, colors, and sounds. Read More >

Apr 7, 2022

The Chic: Carla Fernández Joins Ballet AZ on Juan Gabriel Production

When a person hears the word “tradition,” they might think of certain foods, places, holidays, heritage, historical events, or maybe even significant pieces of clothing. Read More >

Apr 7, 2022

Frontdoors Media: Ballet Arizona Presents ‘Juan Gabriel’

See and feel the iconic music of legendary Mexican singer-songwriter Juan Gabriel come to life on stage as never before.

Ballet Arizona will celebrate the life and work of the beloved performer with a world-premiere ballet by Ib Andersen, Juan Gabriel, running May 5-8 at Symphony Hall. Read More >

Mar 28, 2022

FOX10 Phoenix: All Balanchine at Ballet Arizona

Ballet Arizona holds their final performance of All Balanchine at the Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix on March 27. FOX 10’s Irene Snyder reports. Read More >

Mar 23, 2022

AZ Lifestyle Magazine: BALLET ARIZONA PRESENTS All Balanchine

Before his storied career at Ballet Arizona, Artistic Director Ib Andersen was mentored by the legendary choreographer, George Balanchine, during his tenure as a principal dancer at New York City Ballet.

Read More >
Mar 18, 2022

The Ballet Herald: Juan Gabriel Finally Premieres on the Phoenix Stage

After delays due to the pandemic, Phoenix audiences will finally be able to see the world premiere of Ib Andersen’s Juan Gabriel, a tribute to the Mexican singer and songwriter. Read More >

Mar 11, 2022

The Ballet Herald: Ballet Meets Broadway in Ballet Arizona’s “All Balanchine” Program

Ballet Arizona’s All Balanchine program is where ballet meets broadway on the Orpheum Theatre stage.

Opening night – March 24, 2022 – also boasts the first time George Balanchine‘s Bourrée Fantasque has ever been performed in Arizona. Read More >

Mar 11, 2022

La Voz Arizona: Cumple el sueño de ser bailarina del Ballet Arizona

A la edad de 11 años, Sarah Diniz sa­ bía lo que quería ser: una bailari­ na profesional de ballet y apren­ der de los mejores. Read More >

Feb 18, 2022

AZBigMedia: Ballet meets Broadway March 24-27 at ‘All Balanchine’

George Balanchine, known as The Father of American Ballet, broke ground when he put his twist on traditional ballet standards and techniques. Read More >

Feb 11, 2022

City Sun Times: Ballet Arizona’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’ Brings Romance Center Stage with Phoenix Symphony

Ballet Arizona and The Phoenix Symphony have partnered for a romance that is sure to set your heart aflame as they perform the most famous love story of all time, Romeo & Juliet. Read More >

Feb 11, 2022

AZBigMedia: You’ll fall in love with Ballet Arizona’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’

What happens when Ballet Arizona and The Phoenix Symphony pair up for a production of Romeo & Juliet? Magic. So much so, you may find yourself asking “Did my heart love till now? Read More >

Feb 11, 2022

La Voz: Celebra el Día del Amor y la Amistad con la obra Romeo y Julieta del Ballet Arizona

¿Sin planes para celebrar este Día del Amor y la Amistad? Ballet Arizona y The Phoenix Symphony se han unido para poner en escena la historia de amor más famosa de todos los tiempos: Romeo y Julieta. Read More >

Feb 9, 2022

12 News: Ballet Arizona and Phoenix symphony teaming up for Valentine’s Day Romeo and Juliet performance

This Valentine’s Day weekend, check out the latest collaboration between two of the state’s biggest artistic powerhouses, Ballet Arizona and The Phoenix Symphony. Read More >

Feb 9, 2022

AZ Lifestyle: Romeo & Juliet Brings Romance Centerstage Valentine’s Day Weekend

Ballet Arizona and The Phoenix Symphony have partnered for a romance that is sure to set your heart aflame as they perform the most famous love story of all time, Romeo & Juliet.  Read More >

Feb 7, 2022

City Sun Times: 13 Things to Do Around Town Feb. 4-10

This week, we are bringing you a week’s worth (and more!) of Things to Do, including Ballet Arizona’s Romeo & Juliet, Feb. Read More >

Feb 3, 2022

AZ Big Media: Ballet Arizona earns generous grant from Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation

Ballet Arizona has been awarded a generous grant from the Diane & Bruce Halle Foundation to support the Education and Community Engagement programs of the organization, including the community flagship production, Ballet Under the Stars. Read More >

Feb 2, 2022

Phoenix New Times: Four Things to Do With Your Sweetie in Phoenix This Valentine’s Day Weekend

Call it the Hallmark-industrial complex, but there’s definitely a lot of pressure to make Valentine’s Day a special day for you and your significant other. Read More >

Feb 2, 2022

North Central News: Ballet Arizona announces departure of director

After nine years serving with the organization, Ballet Arizona’s executive director Samantha Turner announced in January that the 2021–22 season will be her last with the organization. Read More >

Jan 24, 2022

Daily Independent: Executive Director of Ballet Arizona Announces Exit

Ballet Arizona Executive Director, Samantha Turner, has announced that the 2021-2022 season will be her last with the ballet, after serving the organization for nine years, including six as executive director. Read More >

Jan 21, 2022

Arizona Health & Living: Executive Director Of Ballet Arizona Announces End Of Tenure

Ballet Arizona Executive Director, Samantha Turner, has announced that the 2021-2022 will be her last with the ballet, after serving the organization for nine years, including six as executive director. Read More >

Jan 21, 2022

Phoenix Business Journal: Ballet Arizona executive director to end tenure in June

Ballet Arizona Executive Director, Samantha Turner, has announced that the 2021-2022 will be her last with the ballet, after serving the organization for nine years, including six as executive director. Read More >

Jan 21, 2022

AZ Central: Top plays, Broadway musicals and other shows to see in metro Phoenix in 2022

It’s a year of premier ballet, theater, musicals and concerts in the Valley. And there’s a show for anyone. Ballet Arizona’s Romeo & Juliet and An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden are among the top events to do in Phoenix this spring.  Read More >

Dec 24, 2021

AZ Lifestyle: BALLET ARIZONA PRESENTS The Nutcracker

Pirouette into Symphony Hall as Ballet Arizona returns in grand fashion with the holiday classic The Nutcracker. Celebrate the joy and wonder of the season with renowned Artistic Director Ib Andersen’s choreography as Tchaikovsky’s cherished score is masterfully performed by The Phoenix Symphony. Read More >

Dec 24, 2021

AZ Foothills: Experience the Magic of Dance With Ballet Arizona

Ballet is an art that tells a visual story that can transport and transform. This winter, Ballet Arizona returns to Symphony Hall in grand fashion with The Nutcracker, a holiday classic for all ages, followed by an impressive schedule of performanaces to look forward to in 2022. Read More >

Nov 29, 2021

Yahoo! News: ‘The Nutcracker,’ ‘Rudolph’ and ‘Elf’ among the shows hitting metro Phoenix holiday stages

Pair the Phoenix Symphony’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker” with artistic director Ib Andersen’s rendition of the ballet — and more than 100,000 Austrian Swarovski crystals — and you’ve reached Ballet Arizona’s famed take on the holiday classic. Read More >

Nov 29, 2021

Downtown Devil: Ballet Arizona returns for a revived 36th anniversary season

Ballet Arizona returns for a revived 36th anniversary season to bring shows to a large, live audience once again with a full lineup beginning this holiday season. Read More >

Nov 12, 2021

AZ Big Media: Ballet Arizona gets $500,000 grant from Pivotal Group

Ballet Arizona announced it recently received a multi-year gift in the amount of $500,000 from Mr. F. Francis & Mrs. Dionne Najafi of the Pivotal Group, a private entrepreneurial investment firm. Read More >

Nov 12, 2021

USA Today: Best Things to Do in December in Phoenix

More than 150 performers fill the stage for the Valley’s premier annual production of Ballet Arizona’s The Nutcracker, one of the top productions in the country.

Read More >
Nov 12, 2021

Pointe Magazine: Roster Round-Up: Catch Up on Recent Dancer Promotions, Leadership Changes and More

Ballet Arizona recently announced five new dancers to its roster this season. They include former Sarasota Ballet principal Katelyn MayIsabella Seo and Gabriel Wright, as well as two dancers promoted from BAZ’s Studio Company, Alli Chester and Juliette Jones. Read More >

Nov 12, 2021

Yahoo News: 176 Arizona nonprofits receive Season for Sharing grants, many to help address COVID-19 needs

Read More >
Nov 1, 2021

AZ Lifestyle: Ballet Arizona Contemporary Moves Opens Tonight

Contemporary Moves celebrates masterful and diverse choreography, music and tone with works from both emerging and celebrated choreographers. This program kicks off Ballet Arizona’s 36th Anniversary season with an evening of three short but dynamic ballets, similar to a collection of short stories. Read More >

Oct 28, 2021

City Sun Times: Three Show-Stopping Ballets, One Night as Ballet Arizona Launches 2021–22 Season

Ballet Arizona opens its 36th season with Contemporary Moves, Oct. 28 through Nov. 7 at the company’s intimate Dorrance Theatre. Read More >

Oct 26, 2021

Broadway World: THE NUTCRACKER Brings Magic To The Holidays With Enhanced Experiences

Get ready for visions of sugar plums, mouse kings and sparkling Swarovski crystals. Ballet Arizona is proud to announce its 36th year of The Nutcracker performances, choreographed by renowned Artistic Director Ib Andersen. Read More >

Oct 22, 2021

Patch.com: Ballet Arizona Season Opens In Phoenix With Trio Of Ballets

PHOENIX, AZ — Ballet Arizona opens its 36th season with a collection of three short ballets in “Contemporary Moves,” starting Oct.

Read More >
Oct 22, 2021

Broadway World: Ballet Arizona Presents Annual Gala, DANCE WITH ME/BAILA CON MIGO

Baila Conmigo by Ballet Arizona returns live and in person on Friday, April 8, 2022, at the Heard Museum. This much anticipated event is chaired by Janet Melamed and is themed around Ballet Arizona’s upcoming world premiere performance, Juan Gabriel, produced by Jacquie and Bennett Dorrance. Read More >

Oct 11, 2021

AZ Big Media: Ballet Arizona’s ‘The Nutcracker’ brings magic to the holidays

Get ready for visions of sugar plums, mouse kings and sparkling Swarovski crystals. Ballet Arizona announced its 36th year of The Nutcracker performances, choreographed by renowned Artistic Director Ib Andersen.  Read More >

Oct 8, 2021

Arizona Health and Living Magazine: The Nutcracker Brings Magic to the Holidays with Enhanced Experiences

Get ready for visions of sugar plums, mouse kings and sparkling Swarovski crystals. Ballet Arizona is proud to announce its 36th year of The Nutcracker performances, choreographed by renowned Artistic Director Ib Andersen. Read More >

Oct 6, 2021

Prensa Arizona: Ballet Under the Stars and Juan Gabriel

Ballet Arizona’s Sarah Diniz talks with Prenza Arizona about Ballet Under the Stars and the upcoming season, including the world premiere, Juan Gabriel. Read More >

Oct 1, 2021

Yahoo News: Ballet Under the Stars

Ballet Under The Stars is back Friday night with free outdoor performances from Ballet Arizona! Two more FREE outdoor performances remain – tonight in Goodyear at Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater and tomorrow at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix. Read More >

Oct 1, 2021

ABC15: The Bulletin Board: Ballet Under The Stars

Ballet Under The Stars is back Friday night with free outdoor performances from Ballet Arizona! Two more FREE outdoor performances remain – tonight in Goodyear at Estrella Lakeside Amphitheater and tomorrow at Steele Indian School Park in Phoenix. Read More >

Sep 24, 2021

Glendale Media: Ballet Under the Stars Returns to Glendale

Join us this fall as we kick off the 2021-2022 season with free events & dance performances for the whole family in Phoenix and across the Valley. Read More >

Sep 23, 2021

AZ Lifestyle: BALLET UNDER THE STARS The Arizona Tradition Returns

For over two decades, Ballet Arizona has presented Ballet Under the Stars. Serving as a kick-off to each year’s new season, the event welcomes both balletomanes and newbies of all ages to experience a professional ballet performance. Read More >

Sep 16, 2021

Fabulous Arizona Magazine: Ballet Arizona’s Contemporary Moves Debuts

Ballet Arizona opens its 36th season with Contemporary Moves Oct. 29 through Nov. 7 at the company’s intimate Dorrance Theatre in Phoenix. Read More >

Sep 15, 2021

Phoenix.org: Giving Back: Ballet Under the Stars returns with free performances

For the 25th year, Ballet Under the Stars is bringing ballet to the community with four free events at parks around the Valley. Read More >

Sep 14, 2021

Phoenix Business Journal: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awards $123M in grants to Arizona nonprofits

Trustees of Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust on Monday doled out $123 million in surprise grants to 71 Arizona nonprofits.

The trustees met with the CEOs and board chairs of the 71 organizations to thank them for their leadership and work, and wanted to provide a boost of capital through the grants program — known as the Now is the Moment Grants Commemoration — and provide significant capital through grants that will give them strength and runway to help secure their futures.  Read More >

Sep 14, 2021

Arizona Business Magazine: Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust awards $123M in surprise grants

Trustees of Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust today awarded a total of $123 million in surprise grants to 71 Arizona nonprofits—the largest single-day grant initiative in Arizona’s history.  Read More >

Sep 13, 2021

Glendale Star: Ballet Under the Stars returns with free performances

For the 25th year, Ballet Under the Stars is bringing ballet to the community with four free events at parks around the Valley. Read More >

Sep 10, 2021

Telemundo: Single tickets for Ballet Arizona’s 2021-2022 On Sale Now

Ballet Arizona’s exciting 2021-2022 season of performances are all on sale, including the world premiere performance of Ib Andersen’s Juan Gabriel. Read More >

Sep 10, 2021

FOX 10 Phoenix- Ballet Arizona seeks young dancers to audition for ‘The Nutcracker’

Join us HERE to see this Fox10 News segment where we talk about the auditions that are coming up for Ballet Arizona’s production of ‘The Nutcracker! Read More >

Sep 9, 2021

Phoenix Magazine: Ballet Under the Stars

Ballet Arizona continues its season-opening tradition with this series of intimate outdoor performances of classical and contemporary ballet. Read more here. Read More >

Sep 7, 2021

Raising Arizona Kids: 2021-2022 Performing Arts Preview

Raising Arizona Kids just released all Performing Arts schedule for the 2021-2022 season in Arizona and Ballet Arizona was featured on this list! Read More >

Sep 7, 2021

North Central News: Ballet Arizona Returns for Full Season

The magical artistry of Ballet Arizona will be on display again when the company begins its 2021-22 season!  Click Here to read more  Read More >

Sep 7, 2021

City Sun Times: Performing Arts Season Preview 2021-2022

City Sun-Times released all of our  2021-2022 Season performance dates!  Click Here to read more  Read More >

Aug 16, 2021

Patch: Ballet Arizona Book Club

Free and open to the public, we invite you to join us as we build a community around and appreciate the incredible art form of dance. Read More >

Aug 16, 2021

Daily Independent: Ballet Under the Stars returns with FREE Glendale show

Ballet Arizona welcomes back the 24-year tradition of free outdoor ballet performances for the community, including a return to Glendale in addition to shows in Fountain Hills, Goodyear and Phoenix starting in September.  Read More >

Aug 12, 2021

The Fountain Hills Times: Ballet Under the Stars set

All members of the community are invited to attend and are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair to sit back and enjoy the varied program, ranging from classical to contemporary.

Read More >
Aug 9, 2021

FOX 10 News: Fall Enrollment Now Open At School Of Ballet Arizona

Join us to see this Fox10 News segment where we talk about our Fall Enrollment 2021!

 

Open auditions – Saturday, August 14th, 2021. Read More >

Aug 5, 2021

My Local News: Ballet Arizona Book Club

Free and open to the public, we invite you to join us as we build community around and appreciation for the incredible art form of dance. Read More >

Aug 4, 2021

Frontdoors Magazine: The Arts Issue featuring our Executive Director Samantha Turner

Check out the newest issue of Frontdoors Magazine, featuring Executive Director Samantha Turner, which covers the return of live, in-person art performances to the Valley! Read More >

Jul 30, 2021

City Sun Times: Ballet Arizona continues Book Club in August with Balanchine bio

Ballet Arizona is inviting residents to read together again this season with its Book Club, which kicked off in July.  Free and open to the public, residents are invited to join Ballet Arizona as it builds community around and appreciation for the art form of dance.  Read More >

Jul 22, 2021

Phoenix New Times: Here’s What Ballet Arizona Has in Store for Audiences Next Season

After more than a year away from the stage, Ballet Arizona announced its upcoming 2021-22 season lineup yesterday, and it includes some perennial favorites of the company, as well as a world premiere. Read More >

Jul 21, 2021

ABC15: Ballet Arizona offers adaptive program for children, teens with Down syndrome

Children and teens with Down syndrome are learning and developing their dance skills through a unique program. Alexandra Papazian, Ballet Arizona’s Education & Community Engagement Manager, says the organization saw a need in the community that could be filled with dance.  Read More >

Jul 21, 2021

AZ-Lifestyle: BALLET ARIZONA Announces 2021-2022 Season

Ballet Arizona presents its 2021-2022 season, celebrating a revival from the pandemic and overcoming the pause in arts programs across the nation. Read More >

Jul 21, 2021

The Ballet Herald: Ballet Arizona’s 2021-2022 Season

Marking its 36th year, the Ballet Arizona 2021-2022 Season celebrates the return to a complete live performance season for the company. Read More >

Jun 9, 2021

In Business Magazine: Fun Is Our Business: 10 Companies Tell What It Took to Survive in a Year That’s Been Anything but Fun!

As a business, Ballet Arizona is comprised of three aspects: performances, school and community engagement. So, there were different responses to the COVID-19 restrictions. Read More >

May 21, 2021

Phoenix Youth Symphony, Ballet Arizona to kick off performances | FOX 10 News

As in-person performances return following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, two youth arts organizations in the Valley are collaborating for the first time to present Swan Lake at Desert Botanical Garden. Read More >

May 13, 2021

The Ballet Herald: Desert Botanical Garden: Site to Ballet Arizona’s Return to In-Person Performances

One year after its cancellation, Ballet Arizona will finally premiere Ib Andersen’s The Four Seasons at Desert Botanical Garden on May 18th and will be presented Tuesdays through Saturdays until June 5th .

Read More >
May 3, 2021

AZ Lifestyle: Ballet Arizona Presents a Collection of Digital Performances and an Awards Celebration on May 8

This special digital performance showcases some of Ballet Arizona’s favorite Balanchine performance moments along with a spirited finale from Nayon Iovino’s celebrated and electric MambazRead More >

May 3, 2021

AZ Foothills: Ballet Arizona and Arizona Opera Partner in Bringing Students Music Movement Breaks

Ballet Arizona and Arizona Opera have combined forces to produce a free nine video series whose purpose is to get students moving in both virtual and in-person classroom settings. Read More >

Apr 15, 2021

Gilbert Sun News: Kids with disabilities learn dance from Ballet Arizona

Children and teens with Down syndrome are learning the discipline of ballet through a unique program sponsored by Arizona Ballet. Read More >

Apr 5, 2021

KTAR News: 2 Valley youth arts organizations unite to showcase Swan Lake

PHOENIX — The School of Ballet Arizona and Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestras are teaming up to present a unique performance at the Desert Botanical Garden. Read More >

Feb 22, 2021

The Ballet Herald: ‘Gillmer Duran: Solidarity Toward a Brighter Future’

Despite the ups and downs he has endured personally as well as those that accompany a global pandemic, Gillmer Duran is still positive about the future of the dance industry. Read More >

Feb 18, 2021

KJZZ: Ballet Arizona Is Hosting In-Person And Virtual Spring Shows

After a season of canceled in-person performances, Ballet Arizona is returning to the stage with two upcoming performances titled “ENERGY” and “Balanchine.” Read More >

Feb 2, 2021

The Ballet Herald: ‘The Professional Ballet Community Adapts in a Pandemic World’

As we are pretty much at the one year mark for which the world was turned upside down, I got to wondering how artistic leadership and dancers of professional ballet companies around the world would reflect upon the months past and their thoughts about the ones to come. Read More >

Jan 11, 2021

Phoenix Business Journal: ‘The Show Must Go On’

Despite staff cuts, donor pullouts and relief funds quickly drying up, many organizations didn’t do a final curtain call. They innovated and transitioned to remote environments, from Ballet Arizona producing online video content to the Musical Instrument Museum uploading educational programs for students learning at home.  Read More >

Aug 12, 2020

Paradise Valley Independent: ‘Ballet Arizona welcomes Marquez, Felix as new directors’

Ballet Arizona hired two new directors, Leslie Marquez as marketing director and Karina Felix as its finance director.

“We are thrilled to bring Leslie and Karina on board to head up Ballet Arizona’s marketing and finance departments,” said Samantha Turner, executive director at Ballet Arizona, in a prepared statement. Read More >

Jul 28, 2020

KJZZ: ‘Phoenix, Tucson And Flagstaff Groups Get National Arts Grants’

More than a million dollars in federal coronavirus relief funds will help 16 nonprofit arts groups in Arizona. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) announced the awards to help organizations cover staff salaries, fees for artists or contractual personnel and facilities costs. Read More >

Jun 24, 2020

Phoenix Magazine ‘The Great 48 2020’ featuring Ib Andersen

Ib Andersen, 65
ARTISTIC DIRECTOR OF BALLET ARIZONA

This year marks Danish ballet legend Ib Andersen’s 20th anniversary as artistic director of Ballet Arizona. Read More >

Jan 13, 2020

Broadway World: ‘Ballet Arizona To Present the World Premiere Of THE FOUR SEASONS’

Ballet Arizona will present The Four Seasons, a journey through winter, spring, summer and fall in movement, May 19-June 6 at Desert Botanical Garden for the company’s annual season-concluding performance of An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden. Read More >

Oct 11, 2019

Arizona Foothills Magazine: ‘Most Influential Phoenicians 2019’ Featuring Ib Andersen

Ib Andersen

Celebrating his 20th year as the artistic director of Ballet Arizona

How did you get your start in the arts? Read More >

Aug 20, 2019

Phoenix New Times: The Best Free Things to Do in Metro Phoenix This Week

Ballet Arizona Fan Fest

If you think ballet is all about tutus and floating across the stage, you’re not spending enough time at Ballet Arizona performances blending artistry with athleticism. Read More >

Jan 4, 2019

Modern Luxury: The Art of Living

“From overseeing rehearsals on one show to choreographing movements for another, it’s plain to see that Ib Andersen, Ballet Arizona’s artistic director, likes to keep things, well, moving.” Read More >

Jan 4, 2019

Phoenix New Times: The Best Things We Saw in 2018

New Moves
Ballet Arizona delivered an intriguing mix of new and recent works during New Moves, performed September 27 to 30 at the Orpheum Theatre. Read More >

Oct 4, 2018

Ballet Arizona Blog: Behind the Scenes of The Sleeping Beauty

Artistic Director Ib Anderson gives his insight on the most iconic fairy tale ballet of all time, The Sleeping Beauty, which you can see October 25 – 28 at Symphony Hall in downtown Phoenix! Read More >

Sep 26, 2018

AZ BIG Media:Ballet Arizona brings ‘Sleeping Beauty’ to Symphony Hall

“This celebrated classic, set to the Phoenix Symphony’s live performance of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, will sweep you off of your feet leaving you spellbound from true love’s kiss.”.. Read More >

Jun 1, 2018

AZ Redbook: “Ballet Arizona and Desert Botanical Garden Join Forces for ‘Eroica’”

Ballet Arizona’s Prima Circle and Desert Botanical Garden’s Patrons Circle celebrated the opening night and world premiere performance of Eroica on May 15. Read More >

May 11, 2018

Arizona Republic: “Will Ballet Arizona’s ‘Eroica’ be a masterpiece at Desert Botanical Garden?”

“Maybe it’s just that famous Danish reserve, but Ib Andersen is not any easy man to get to know. Ballet Arizona’s longtime artistic director is laconic, slow to make eye contact, clearly uncomfortable around strangers. Read More >

Apr 29, 2018

Arizona Republic: “Ballet Arizona star Natalia Magnicaballi takes her final bow”

“Ballet Arizona dancer Natalia Magnicaballi was a star the moment she stepped onstage at Phoenix’s Symphony Hall. Check that. She was already a rising star. Read More >

Aug 19, 2016

Opening Night of Round – ‘Uptown Magazine’

Members from Ballet Arizona’s Prima Circle and Desert Botanical Garden’s Patrons Circle celebrated the Opening Night performance of ‘Round’. Read more. Read More >

Aug 19, 2016

‘Dance With Me’ Honors Jacquie Dorrance at Ballet Arizona’s Annual Gala

Ballet Arizona’s annual gala, “Dance With Me,” honored longtime supporter of the arts Jacquie Dorrance. The Jan. 22 occasion at
Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts was attended by more than 400 guests for dinner, a sneak-peek performance of Ballet
Arizona’s upcoming production The Sleeping Beauty and dancing.  Read More >

Aug 19, 2016

Ballet Arizona Prima Circle Members Enjoy Exclusive Appreciation Evening

On Jan. 29, more than 100 of Ballet Arizona’s Prima Circle members enjoyed an exclusive evening filled with educational content
provided by Ib Andersen, artistic director, dinner catered by Tarbell’s and a post-performance reception where they were able to
interact with the many talented dancers of Ballet Arizona. Read More >

Mar 27, 2015

Phoenix New Times: “Ballet Arizona Presents ‘Today’s Masters,’ Premieres Two New Works”

“It’s been more than a decade since Ib Andersen, artistic director for Ballet Arizona, wowed us with his choreography and set design for Mosaik, which premiered in phoenix in 2004, and was performed again in 2006… Read more.” Read More >

Jan 2, 2015

The New York Times: “Royal Danish Ballet Brings Bournonville Back to New York”

“For more than half a century, Americans have felt a kind of fascination for Danish dancers. The attraction datse at least to the 1950s, when a small group from the Royal Danish Ballet traveled to the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival in Becket, Mass., Read More >

Sep 3, 2014

The New York Times: “Discovery and Rediscovery”

“…More remarkably, thought, on Feb. 12, Ballet Arizona in Phoenix will become the first American company ever to perform Bournonville’s exuberant three-act ‘Napoli’ (1842); its artistic director is Ib Andersen, who is staging this production. Read More >

Apr 18, 2014

Arizona Executive Magazine: “Taking the Next Steps: Local Attorney Found Time for a Valued Arts Performing Arts Organization”

“Real estate attorney and Lewis Roca Rothberger managing partner Ken Van Winkle, Jr. joined the board of Ballet Arizona because of a heartfelt comment his teenage daughter Ally made one morning as he was driving her to school… Read more.” Read More >

Nov 19, 2013

The New York Times: “Defectors Land on Their Feet”

“We knew we were leaving everything behind, and we didn’t know what awaited us,” Ms. Martin said last week while she and her new colleagues at Ballet Arizona were on a break from rehearsals of “Cinderella,” …Read More Read More >

Jul 8, 2013

The New York Times: “All-American Goddesses”

“Ballet Arizona dancer Jillian Barrell is noted as one of America’s up and coming young ballerinas. “Just now there are at least 11 prodigious American-born young women dancing in six different American companies, who deserve to be called ballerinas…And Ms. Read More >

May 21, 2013

San Tan Sun: “‘Topia’ Returns to Desert Botanical Gardens with Chandler Dancer”

“Ballet Arizona dancer Joseph Cavanaugh discusses Topia, the production created specifically for the Desert Botanical Garden, with the San Tan Sun. Read More >

May 16, 2013

AZCentral.com: “Chandler Dancer Relishes Ballet ‘Created for Arizona’”

“Thirty-three-year-old Ballet Arizona dancer Joseph Cavanaugh uses yoga; Gyrotonics, yoga in motion; cross training; hiking, and weightlifting along with massage therapy, acupuncture, dry-needling, and Rolfing to keep his body highly conditioned. Read More >

May 13, 2013

East Valley Tribune: “‘Topia’ Not Your Typical Night at the Ballet”

Even with a healthy appreciation for the arts and a career that puts me in close proximity to them — not to mention a cousin who’s an accomplished professional ballerina — I can’t say I clamor for a night at the ballet. Read More >

May 13, 2013

AZCentral.com: “Ballet’s ‘Topia’ a Celebration of Nature at Desert Botanical Garden”

“Artistic director Ib Andersen’s creation premiered last May and returns to the Desert Botanical Garden. Originally inspired by Greek and Roman art, Ib discusses the costumes (or lack there of) in Topia.”  Read More >

May 10, 2013

Noticias Univision 33: “Tú Me Inspiras”

“Tú Me Inspiras a two-part series on Ballet Arizona and The School of Ballet Arizona. This originally aired on Noticias Univision 33 (newscast) Saturday, May 4th and Sunday, May 5th, 2013.”  Read More >

May 8, 2013

KJZZ: “Ballet Arizona Plants Its Dancers at the Desert Botanical Garden”

“Starting next week, Ballet Arizona will stage of series of performances, Topia, outdoors at the Desert Botanical Gardens.  Ballet Arizona’s Artistic Director Ib Andersen explained his inspiration for Topia and how the setting affects the dancers and members of the audience on KJZZ.”  Read More >

Apr 30, 2013

AZCentral.com: “Ballet Arizona Salutes Balanchine in Phoenix”

“Known as a ‘game-changer in the ballet world,’ legendary choreographer George Balanchine will be honored and celebrated in Ballet Arizona’s upcoming production of All Balanchine. Read More >

Mar 27, 2013

AZCentral.com: “AZ Central Previews Director’s Choice”

“Director’s Choice brings diverse movements to the Orpheum Theatre stage with works from three leading choreographers. Each piece offers its own style of choreography from merry and humorous to sophisticated and cool.”  Read More >

Mar 8, 2013

The New York Times: “The Prince of Ballet, Leaping Onto a New World Stage”

“David Hallberg, principal dancer at both the American Ballet Theater in New York and the Bolshoi Ballet of Moscow, attended New York Fashion Week. Read More >

Feb 16, 2013

Art Musings: “Art Masterpiece – ‘Romeo & Juliet'”

“Art Musings declares Romeo & Juliet a true art masterpiece. The performance brings brilliant choreography, heavy costumes and lush scenic design to the stage.”  Read More >

Feb 12, 2013

AZCentral.com: “Ballet Arizona’s ‘Romeo and Juliet’ in Phoenix”

“‘Dancers become the music’ in one of Ib Andersen’s most acclaimed choreographic efforts. AZ Central describes the score, the passion, and the movement of Romeo and Juliet.”  Read More >

Feb 11, 2013

Ballet Arizona: “Romeo & Juliet: Meet Our Juliets”

“We took a moment to interview our Juliets. Discover what they love the production and the challenges they face as dancers in Romeo & Juliet.”  Read More >

Feb 8, 2013

East Valley Tribune: “Ballet Arizona Announces New Scholarship for Male Dancers”

The School of Ballet Arizona has a new scholarship for young male dancers, in honor of famed dancer and former pupil of the school, David Hallberg. Read More >

Feb 8, 2013

AZCentral.com: “Ballet Scholarship Named for Phoenix’s David Hallberg”

“David Hallberg, the ballet world’s most famous male dancer, was back in his hometown of Phoenix last week to promote a new scholarship in his name at Ballet Arizona.”  Read More >

Oct 10, 2012

Raising Arizona Kids Magazine: “Ballet Arizona Breaks Ground on New Building”

Ballet Arizona held an official groundbreaking ceremony for its new home, located at 2835 E. Washington St. in Phoenix, Tuesday morning. Read More >

Oct 1, 2012

Phoenix Business Journal: “Ballet Arizona to Break Ground on New $10M Home”

“Ballet Arizona will break ground next week on a 45,000-square-foot complex that will allow the arts organization to expand educational and outreach programs.  Read More >

Sep 20, 2012

AZCentral.com: “Arizona Opera, Ballet Arizona Building New HQs in Phoenix”

“As they gear up for another season of grand-scale productions onstage, staffers at Arizona Opera and Ballet Arizona are champing at the bit to move into spiffy new headquarters that they hope will raise both companies’ profiles in the community.  Read More >

Jul 18, 2012

AZCentral.com: “Phoenix-Area Ballet, Symphony, and Opera Plan Joint Show”

“Instead of choosing from among the ballet, opera or symphony when making a donation to the arts, patrons of any one of those Phoenix organizations now can write a single check and support all three.  Read More >

Jul 7, 2012

AZCentral.com: “Ballet Arizona Still Lacks Moving Funds”

“Weekday afternoons at Ballet Arizona’s Phoenix studio often see five or six little girls in leotards hopping around in a line in front of the restroom while their classes are in progress.  Read More >

Mar 20, 2012

AZCentral.com: “Best Partnership: Phoenix Symphony and Ballet Arizona”

“Each performance company by itself is great, but the combination is greater than the sum of the parts. Too often ballet troupes around the country dance to recorded music. Read More >

Jan 20, 2012

AZCentral.com: “Costumer Keeps Ballet on Pointe”

“Leonor Texidor has a steady hand and a keen eye as she works her fingers through tulle and tutus, along princess seams, petticoats of brocade and jacquard, and velvet robes at Ballet Arizona in central Phoenix.  Read More >

Mar 19, 2011

The Arizona Republic: “Ballet Arizona Offers Contemporary Works”

The Arizona Republic, by Richard Nilsen

Each season, Ballet Arizona gives over one program to contemporary choreography. This year, it’s “Modern Masters,” a catchall title for a program that spans the distance from contemporary dance to classical ballet. Read More >

Mar 14, 2011

Haute Living: “Classical Ballet With a Twist: Ballet Arizona Presents ‘Modern Masters'”

Haute Living, Posted By Marie Look

Ballet Arizona will present “Modern Masters” at Orpheum Theatre March 24-27, a program which will include the world premiere of “Symphonie Classique,” choreographed by esteemed director Ib Anderson and the first classical original ballet he has choreographed for Ballet Arizona. Read More >

Mar 4, 2011

The Arizona Republic: “Blurring Line Between Ballet, Modern”

The Arizona Republic, by Richard Nilsen

The 20th century – the century of Modernism – hit classical ballet, too. Early in the century, several ballet companies felt the need to update the repertoire and keep apace of events in painting, music and literature. Read More >

Jan 2, 2011

AZCentral.com: “Ballet Arizona to Revamp Phoenix Warehouse for Use”

“Ballet dancers soon will fill an old office-furniture warehouse east of downtown Phoenix. Over the next six to eight months, construction crews will transform the 45,000-square-foot Walsh Bros. Read More >

Jun 11, 2010

“Kennedy Center’s Ballet Across America Program Hosts Troupes from Across Country”

By Lisa Traiger

Nine companies will share the Kennedy Center stage next week in a weeklong festival celebrating ballet with an American accent. Read More >

Jun 4, 2010

The Arizona Republic: “Director Ib Andersen Passes ‘Prodigal’ Baton”

The Arizona Republic, by Richard Nilsen

Director Ib Andersen passes ‘Prodigal’ baton

Ib Andersen first danced George Balanchine’s “Prodigal Son” in 1986 and got rave reviews. Read More >

Jun 1, 2010

Pointe Magazine: “Ballet Arizona at Ballet Across America”

For Ballet Arizona Artistic Director Ib Andersen, the second of the Kennedy Center’s biennial Ballet Across America festivals is a milestone in his 26-year-old troupe’s history. Read More >

Mar 2, 2010

Phoenix Business Journal: “‘Sleeping Beauty’ Sets Record for Ballet Arizona”

Valentine’s Day was fruitful for Ballet Arizona and it’s presentation of “Sleeping Beauty.”

Ballet Arizona sold 10,359 tickets to the Valentine’s weekend production, selling out three of five performances. Read More >

Mar 29, 2009

The Arizona Republic: “‘Masters of Movement’ with Christopher Wheeldon”

The Arizona Republic, by Richard Nilsen

At only 36, Christopher Wheeldon is a superstar of contemporary-ballet choreography, widely held to be the successor of such luminaries as Kenneth MacMillan and Frederick Ashton. Read More >