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Montgomery Ballet
editOverview
editMontgomery Ballet, established in 1958 as the Montgomery Civic Ballet, is Alabama’s oldest non-profit arts organization. Based in Montgomery, Alabama, it is the city’s sole professional ballet company and one of only three in the state. Over the past six decades, Montgomery Ballet has played a pivotal role in enriching the cultural landscape of Montgomery through its high-quality performances, educational outreach, and community engagement.
History
editFounding and Early Years (1958-1983)
editThe Montgomery Civic Ballet was founded in 1958 with a mission to provide high-quality ballet performances and foster a love for the arts within the community. During its early years, the organization focused on building a solid foundation for ballet in Montgomery, offering performances and establishing a ballet school to train young dancers.
Professional Transition and Growth (1984-1995)
editIn 1984, Don Steffy was appointed Artistic Director, with Marylou Hume as Associate Director and Director of the Montgomery Ballet School. Under their leadership, the organization underwent significant transformation. In 1987, the Montgomery Civic Ballet transitioned into a professional company and was renamed the Montgomery Ballet. This period marked the beginning of many innovations, including enhanced performance quality and the introduction of new programs.
During Steffy’s tenure, the Montgomery Ballet was designated as an “Advanced Arts Institution” by the Alabama State Council on the Arts and joined the state touring program. In 1987, it was honored as “The Official Performing Ballet Company of the City of Montgomery,” representing the city on tours across the state and southeastern region. The company also achieved the highest rank in the Southeast Regional Ballet Association (SERBA) and gained membership in DANCE/USA.
Community Outreach and Education
editSteffy’s era also saw the establishment of robust community outreach initiatives. The Montgomery Ballet became a Partner-in-Education, developing the LEAP (Linking Education and the Arts Program) to integrate arts into the education system. Additionally, the annual outdoor performance, Ballet and the Beasts at the Montgomery Zoo, was introduced and continues to be a popular event.
Modern Era and Recent Developments
editUnder new management, Montgomery Ballet adopted the slogan “Dance Lives Here,” reflecting its commitment to integrating artists into the local culture. The company has resumed touring, bringing performances to Butler County and Elmore County, and involving local talent to enhance community participation. These tours have made ballet accessible to communities with limited access to the arts.
Montgomery Ballet continues to maintain legacy programs like LEAP and has introduced new initiatives aimed at expanding the reach of ballet. The organization is focused on creating new programs to enrich the lives of children and adults through ballet, aiming to achieve new heights in artistry, community involvement, and cultural development.
References
edit- Montgomery Ballet Official Website: [Montgomery Ballet History](http://www.montgomeryballet.org/history)
External Links
edit- [Montgomery Ballet Official Website](http://www.montgomeryballet.org)