Miami City Ballet celebrated its 31st annual gala, the first charity gala hosted at Miami Beach’s cultural cornerstone Faena Forum. The event raised more than $1 million to support Miami City Ballet’s work both onstage and in the community. The theme of this year’s ball—an ice-kissed fairytale—was inspired by the world premiere commission of Alexei Ratmansky’s The Fairy’s Kiss, debuting on February 10th at Miami’s Adrienne Arsht Center.
Guests experienced an evening with dinner, dancing and artistic prowess that began with a cocktail reception showcasing a life-sized glacier and a Miami City Ballet ballerina greeting more than 400 attendees. Notable Miami, Palm Beach and New York philanthropists, together with community leaders and ballet aficionados, sipped Bacardi cocktails from frozen shot glasses while child prodigy pianist Brandon Goldberg played jazz tunes. The dramatic ballroom was furnished with an ice bar and centerpieces featuring pointe shoes frozen into them. Miami City Ballet dancers dined at each guest table then hit the dance floor for an unforgettable party that included a surprise flash mob as snow fell from the balconies of the Forum.
“Tonight we celebrate our dancers and their exceptional artistry on stage, our leadership and distinct artistic élan, and our outreach programming serving thousands of young people and families each year,” said Susan D. Kronick, Gala Chair & Chairman of Miami City Ballet’s Board of Directors. “We extend a sincere thank you to every sponsor who stepped forward to ensure that Miami City Ballet remains one of the most vibrant and beloved dance companies in this country, and right here in our own backyard.”
The fantastical fundraiser, followed by a Remy Martin sponsored after-party at the Faena penthouse, was the perfect setting to announce the Miami City Ballet’s new take on the classic Nutcracker performance, premiering next year with a Miami-inspired twist, featuring costume and set design by artistic power couple Ruben and Isabel Toldeo.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings