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ICB Background

The Indianapolis City Ballet is a not-for-profit organization created under the leadership of Jane Fortune and Dr. Robert Hesse at the urging of individuals and supporters of Ballet Internationale. A two-year feasibility and planning process involved more than 75 leaders in business, philanthropy, education and the arts and sought to engage as many people in a collaborative effort to return professional ballet to Indianapolis.

The planning process was intensive; it was guided by a simple question: “How can we bring a sustainable professional ballet presence back to Indianapolis”? This presence was not interpreted only as the creation of a full-time ballet company but rather includes a range of possibilities in its evolution that could include presenting major ballet companies and/or creating a part-time company. However, it was recognized that a commitment to engaging only the finest artists, revitalizing repertoire, and creating a financially stable operation were project necessities.

To summarize, there is a strong base of individuals who are willing to give of their time and money to support the re-emergence of professional ballet in Indianapolis. The City has a passionate group of ballet supporters; it also has an even larger group of individuals who see that ballet is an integral component of a well-rounded life and that it needs a place in the cultural dynamic of Indianapolis. Pledges of support were forthcoming, and development of a comprehensive program has been created that includes:

• A first-class gala program of ballet that incorporates a blend of classical and contemporary styles;
• A selection of the world’s most talented artists;
• An outreach program that seeks to engage the dance and non-dance public;
• An education effort that focuses on integrating the art and discipline of ballet into the learning process; and
• A reevaluation process that lets ICB continually assess and adjust its programs.

And so, on September 12, 2009, the Indianapolis City Ballet will present its inaugural performance, called “An Evening with the Stars.” Some of the world’s finest ballet dancers from major companies in North America and Europe will perform in a gala program that treats audience members to excerpts of some of the most exciting classical and contemporary repertoire.

The Indianapolis City Ballet would like to extend its thanks to all the individuals who participated in its start-up.