Salt Creek Ballet Company

Overview

The Salt Creek Ballet Company is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization located in the Chicagoland area. Established in 1985, it functions as both a ballet school and a performance company, dedicated to promoting dance education and fostering artistic excellence.

History

Salt Creek Ballet was founded by Patricia Sigurdson, a renowned ballet professional who trained at the Royal Ballet School in London and danced with the American Ballet Theatre and Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo. Sigurdson envisioned a school that would offer professional-level dance education and performance opportunities to students. Upon her retirement in 1998, Sergey Kozadayev and Zhanna Dubrovskaya, trained at the Vaganova School in Saint Petersburg, took over as Co-Artistic Directors. They expanded the company's repertoire, including major classical productions and original contemporary works.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of the Salt Creek Ballet Company is to nurture artistic excellence in dance, founded upon the discipline and artistry of classical ballet. While not all students pursue professional dance careers, the organization believes that every student deserves a high-quality dance education. This approach not only enhances dance skills but also fosters life skills and encourages personal growth. The company engages with the community through outreach programs, aiming to inspire appreciation and awareness of ballet.

Programs and Performances

Salt Creek Ballet offers a wide range of dance classes for students of all ages and skill levels, including classical ballet, character, jazz, modern, tap, contemporary, pas de deux, and ballet acting. The school's faculty consists of world-class professionals with impressive backgrounds. The company showcases its talent through both stage performances and community events, featuring a diverse repertoire that includes traditional classical works and original contemporary pieces.

Community Impact and Recognition

Salt Creek Ballet has earned critical acclaim for its high standards in dance performance and education. Many of its dancers have gone on to join prestigious dance companies such as The Royal Ballet, Zurich Ballet, and the Joffrey Ballet. The organization's contributions to the community have been acknowledged through its sold-out performances and loyal following.

Financial Structure

As a non-profit organization, Salt Creek Ballet relies on donations, grants, and program services to support its activities. Donations to the company are tax-deductible. The organization also engages in corporate sponsorships and volunteers to help fund its operations.

Legacy and Celebrations

In its 40th year, Salt Creek Ballet continues to celebrate the transformative power of dance within the community. It remains committed to providing the highest caliber of dance instruction and performance opportunities, inspiring creativity and fostering a legacy of movement and unity.