Ballet Arkansas

==Ballet Arkansas== '''Ballet Arkansas''' is the premier professional ballet company in Little Rock and the official state ballet company of Arkansas. It has been a significant cultural institution in the region, with a history dating back to its origins as the Little Rock Civic Ballet in 1966. Founded by Lorraine and Donald C. Cranford, the organization was incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation in 1979. Over the past 45 years, Ballet Arkansas has had a profound impact on the state's cultural landscape, reaching nearly half-a-million Arkansans through its programming. ===Artistic Leadership=== The company has flourished under the artistic direction of Michael Fothergill and his wife, Catherine Fothergill. Their visionary leadership has elevated Ballet Arkansas's status, ranking it among the Top 100 Ballet Companies in the United States. The company boasts a talented ensemble of 16 dancers who deliver a diverse repertoire that includes classic ballets, masterworks of American dance, and premieres from internationally renowned choreographers. ===Performances and Reach=== Each year, Ballet Arkansas presents a season that captivates nearly 50,000 audience members with its artistic excellence. The organization's broadcast reach for the 2022-2023 season extended to patrons in all 50 states and 24 countries, showcasing the company's growing influence and appeal beyond Arkansas. ===Education and Outreach=== Ballet Arkansas is also a leader in dance education within the state, offering hundreds of children and adults exceptional training opportunities. Its educational programs, including interactive K-12 outreach initiatives, annually engage over 10,000 students. Additionally, more than 300 children participate in the company's Community Cast productions each year. ===Headquarters and Community Engagement=== The company is a founding member of Little Rock's Creative Corridor and maintains its headquarters at 520 Main Street, strategically positioned across from the Arkansas Repertory Theater. Ballet Arkansas is committed to fostering inclusiveness and creating a vibrant atmosphere where all community members are embraced and celebrated. ===Core Objectives=== Ballet Arkansas is dedicated to: * Anticipating and responding to the diverse programming needs of Arkansans. * Attracting and collaborating with exceptional performers, collaborators, and staff. * Educating and nurturing the next generation of professional dancers. * Fostering inclusiveness and creating a community where all are embraced. * Strengthening financial and organizational foundations for program and service expansion. * Driving innovation within the art form. ===Recognition=== The company's achievements have been recognized in publications such as ''Pointe Magazine'', reflecting its status as a significant contributor to the arts. As it celebrates its 45th anniversary, Ballet Arkansas continues to enrich the cultural fabric of Arkansas through world-class performances and educational programs, ensuring the art of ballet thrives in the heart of America.