It's been nearly a month since the dancers of Ballet Des Moines returned from their extended break to begin rehearsals for our season of Resilience. Since that day, the studio has been a torrent of creative energy, with new works being choreographed alongside talented local musicians, playing live as the artists bring their roles to life. The dancers' excitement to be back in the studio is palpable.

One of the strongest choreographic line-ups we have ever presented, our season of Resilience incorporates seven separate ballet works, ranging from cutting edge to fun and flirty, as well as some quintessential classics. The works highlight not only the talent and strength of our professional dancers, but also of our art form and its power to connect with audiences from all walks of life. From the educational Peter and the Wolf which will engage and inspire students in and outside of classrooms across the state, to a contemporary world premiere by Oklahoma City Ballet Master Ryan Nye, Resilience truly has something for everyone.

We feel fortunate and grateful to have the opportunity to continue our work in these challenging times, when so many of our friends and peers have shuttered their doors. The support of our community, especially through philanthropic giving, has made this season possible, and we offer our sincere thanks to you all. We are so glad that we can share some beauty and inspiration with you when we all need it most.

Our art reminds us how we can all play a part in our community's resilience. Recently, inspired by Peter's bravery in Peter and The Wolf, our dancers took to social media to tell us why they aren't afraid. In this moment, I know that I'm not afraid to look ahead, to keep moving forward, and to hope. What aren't you afraid of?

In solidarity,

Blaire Massa
Executive Director
Ballet Des Moines

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ASSEMBLÉ: A WINEFEST COLLABORATION

Introducing a partnership between Ballet Des Moines and Winefest. Throughout the fall and winter, we will have three wine dinners and a behind-the-scenes ballet performance with discussion to enjoy from the comfort of your home.

While you enjoy the rehearsal, indulge in a delectable three-course meal from Table 128. A limited number of in-person tickets will be released to enjoy the dinner from the balcony of the Ballet Des Moines studio. Tables will be socially distanced and available for up to four people.

The first event takes place next Tuesday, October 6 at 7pm. Ticket holders will catch a glimpse of live rehearsal for Ballet Des Moines' Resilience season, which includes world-premiere contemporary ballets Sliding Figures (Andante con moto) and Fly Me To The Moon, a collaboration with Max Wellman featuring the music of Frank Sinatra.

Details

• Dinner for Two and Two Bottles of Wine: $110

• In Person Table for Two at the Ballet + Dinner + Two Bottles of Wine: $210

Menu:

• Ahi tuna | pickled shishitos, celery root and turmeric puree, sundried tomatoes, arugula pesto

• BBQ rubbed brisket | Black bean and hominy succotash, rice wine and soy jus, broccolini

• Pumpkin cheese cake | Graham cracker crust, cranberry maple coulis, fried sage

Wine Pairings:

• 2018 l’Ermitage Costieres de Nimes 'Epicuria'

• 2015 Zede de Labegorce Bordeaux

For additional details and to purchase tickets for this first of three events, click here.

Ballet Des Moines Creative Director Jami Milne, created personalized avant garde masks for each of the dancers to wear during a photoshoot on their first day arriving at Ballet Des Moines. The masks were developed with the season's theme Resilience in mind, creating beauty and inspiration during a pandemic to keep the arts (and artists) alive. A complimentary 16x20 print will be given to any Peter and The Wolf online donor at the $1,000 level or above by October 15. Donate here.

Ballet Des Moines merchandise is now available! We’re proud to partner with Storey Kenworthy for ordering and delivery. Order by October 16th for a November Delivery.