GRAVITY AND LIGHT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

There is tremendous global dialogue and momentum around the convergence of art and science – recognizing that creativity and curiosity are essential drivers for change and innovative solutions.


GRAVITY AND LIGHT SPEAKER SERIES

This spring, Ballet Des Moines is launching a series of events exploring how the arts and sciences collide, featuring world-renowned speakers from artists to astronauts (sometimes, both!). Events will take place across the metro for audiences of all ages, introducing inspirational professionals that may spark career exploration, encourage further academic pursuits, and expand horizons for students who may not otherwise have experienced the performing arts or the science of space in such a connective way.

Dr Merritt Moore, PhD

Dr. Mariel Pettee, PhD

Dr. Ilya Vidrin, PhD

Presenting Sponsors underscore their commitment to universal access to innovative educational programming – recognizing that creativity and curiosity are essential drivers for change progress. Sponsors at this level directly support appearances by internationally renowned scientists such as Merritt Moore, Mariel Pettee, and Ilya Vidrin, including fees and travel expenses. Sponsorships begin at $15,000.

Community Partners support the work of Ballet Des Moines across the community by facilitating the free attendance of community members to programs and performances in various locations, including the Des Moines Civic Center, Hoyt Sherman Place, the Science Center of Iowa, among others. Previous community partnerships have included Oakridge Neighborhood Association, Boys and Girls Club, Des Moines Public Schools, and Al Exito. Sponsorships begin at $5,000.

Organizational Partners Include:


GRAVITY AND LIGHT SUMMER STEM TOUR

The Gravity and Light project combines a world premiere ballet, musical score, and STEM curriculum, each investigating the science of space and relating it to the complexity of human connection, joy, and wonder. Through this unique platform, Ballet Des Moines will inspire and engage audiences of all ages, expanding horizons for those who may not otherwise have experienced the performing arts or the science of space in such a connective way.

A state-wide tour of free performances, workshops, and conversations exploring the convergence of science and art. Explore concepts like gravity and momentum through the lens of movement and music, including an opportunity to experience Starlab, a mobile planetarium. Tour elements include the StarLab Planetarium, an excerpt from Of Gravity and Light ballet, interactive all-ages workshop with Ballet Des Moines artists, and Q&As with the choreographer and dancers.

The mobile StarLab Planetarium

Digital Curriculum in partnership with Iowa PBS LearningMedia

Of Gravity and Light from composer Beau Kenyon

Of Gravity and Light composer Beau Kenyon

Ballet Des Moines Artistic Director Tom Mattingly

A view from Water Works Park during our 2021 Summer Statewide Tour

PRESENTING SPONSORS bring this free, interdisciplinary program directly to communities across the region, and have an opportunity to recommend specific destinations in Iowa. Support at this level impacts thousands community members, encouraging curiosity and self confidence, a driving force behind better outcomes for youth and adults alike. Sponsorships begin at $10,000 with a potential reach of 5,000+.

COMMUNITY PARTNERS support the work of Ballet Des Moines across the community by facilitating the free attendance of community members to programs and performances in various locations, including the Des Moines Civic Center, Hoyt Sherman Place, the Science Center of Iowa, among others. Previous community partnerships have included Oakridge Neighborhood Association, Boys and Girls Club, Des Moines Public Schools, and Al Exito. Sponsorships begin at $5,000.


about of gravity and light

THIS NEEDS UPDATED TO REFLECT THE PAST TENSE OF IT ALL. Ballet Des Moines proudly presents the world premiere of composer Beau Kenyon’s Of Gravity and Light – a contemporary ballet exploring the beauty and wonder of space through ethereal imagery, abstract sound, and remarkable movement. Set in eight movements, Of Gravity and Light features choreography by Ballet Des Moines Artistic Director, Tom Mattingly, video installation by artist Yu-Wen Wu, and live musicians under the direction of conductor Tim McMillin. 

This beautiful, interdisciplinary work exemplifies how the universal language of music and movement can make abstract concepts more human and accessible to audiences of all ages.

 

EDUCATION PARTNERSHIPS

Boys and Girls Club

Commission for Latino Affairs

Des Moines Parks Department

Des Moines Public Schools

Des Moines Performing Arts

Drake University, Department for Neighborhood Relations

Iowa State Extension, Department of 4-H Youth Development

El Exito

GBH Learning Media Boston

Harvard Graduate School of Education

Hispanics United for Perry

Hoyt Sherman Place

Iowa PBS Learning Media

Iowa State University, College of Design

Iowa State Extension, Department of 4-H Youth Development

Iowa State Extension, Department of Human Sciences

Latino Heritage Festival

NASA Iowa Space Grant Consortium

Northeastern University: College of Arts, Media + Design 

Oakridge Neighborhood

Perry Schools

West Des Moines Public Schools

YMCA