Santa Clara Ballet Association

The Santa Clara Ballet Association is a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering and promoting classical ballet within the community.

History

Founded in 1973 by Josefa Villanueva-Reyes and her husband Benjamin Reyes, the Santa Clara Ballet has been a cornerstone of cultural programming in Santa Clara, California. Over the years, the organization has been committed to enriching the community through the art of dance.

Programs and Performances

The Santa Clara Ballet is renowned for its annual production of The Nutcracker, which has become a beloved holiday tradition in the area. The organization provides opportunities for aspiring young dancers to perform alongside professional dancers in full-scale productions. This not only enhances the cultural landscape of Santa Clara but also offers a platform for community engagement and educational growth.

Leadership and Recognition

Josefa Villanueva-Reyes, the founding Artistic Director, has been a pivotal figure in the development of the Santa Clara Ballet. Her contributions were recognized with the Arts Pioneer Award in 2013 by the Santa Clara Performing Arts Foundation and the Sustained Achievement Award by the Isadora Duncan Dance Awards. Her extensive background includes performances with the San Francisco Ballet Company and teaching at prestigious institutions such as the San Francisco Conservatory of Ballet and Theatre Arts.

Community Impact

Through its performances and educational programs, the Santa Clara Ballet Association continues to play a vital role in enhancing the cultural profile of Santa Clara. By offering a unique blend of community engagement and artistic excellence, the organization has become an integral part of the city's cultural heritage.

[1] https://www.sjdt.org/new-mission-history/ [2] http://santaclaraballet.com/uploads/3/4/4/3/3443372/2016-program-scb_final02--lores.pdf [3] http://santaclaraballet.com/uploads/3/5/3/8/35388744/2020-program-scb_best-of-2012-2019-final.1.pdf [4] https://www.discoversantaclara.org/history/ [5] https://www.scu.edu/business/undergraduates/news/2023-24/santa-clara-university-ballroom-dance-association.html