Kansas City Ballet Association

The Kansas City Ballet Association, operating under the moniker Kansas City Ballet (KCB), is a prominent nonprofit organization based in Kansas City, Missouri. Founded in 1957 by Tatiana Dokoudovska, a Russian expatriate, the organization aims to promote ballet within the city through performances, education, and community engagement.

History

KCB was established at the Carriage House in what is now Overland Park, Kansas, with its first performance taking place on April 30, 1957, at the Victoria Theater (now the Lyric Theatre)[1][5]. Initially known as the Kansas City Ballet Company, it became a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by the end of 1957. The company's name changed to the Kansas City Civic Ballet during the 1958-1959 season but reverted to Kansas City Ballet in 1970-1971[1][5].

Artistic Directors

Tatiana Dokoudovska served as the first artistic director until her retirement in 1976. She was succeeded by Eric Hyrst and then Ronald M. Sequoio. Todd Bolender, formerly with George Balanchine's New York City Ballet, took over in 1980, driving the company's national recognition. William Whitener followed Bolender, contributing to the company's contemporary repertoire. In 2013, Devon Carney became the artistic director, focusing on both classical and contemporary ballets[1][2][3].

Presentations and Venues

KCB presents a diverse range of performances annually, including the traditional classic "The Nutcracker." The main venue for its performances is the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Kansas City. Additionally, some events are held at the Todd Bolender Center for Dance and Creativity, the company's administrative and rehearsal home[1][3].

Education and Community Engagement

The organization supports the Kansas City Ballet School, which offers ballet training to students of various ages and skill levels. The school includes divisions like The Academy for younger students and the Studio Division for those aged 12 and above[2]. The company also fosters community engagement through its outreach programs and collaborations with national and regional dance institutions.

Financial Health and Recognition

KCB is recognized as one of the most financially sound arts institutions of its size in the U.S. It has earned respect within the national dance community for its artistic dynamism and community engagement[2][3].

Company Structure

The professional company consists of 30 dancers, along with a second company comprising KCB II and trainee programs. These entities work to bridge the gap between student and professional performances while making dance more accessible to a broader audience[2][4].

Milestones

• 1957: Founded by Tatiana Dokoudovska.
• 1966: Hosted guest artist Nathalie Krassovska.
• 1976: Stepped down as artistic director to focus on teaching.
• 1980: Todd Bolender took over as artistic director.
• 2011: Established the Todd Bolender Center and debuted at the Kauffman Center.
• 2013: Devon Carney became the artistic director.
• 2017: Celebrated its 60th anniversary with a performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.[1][3][5].