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Yosvani Ramos by Rachel Neville
CONTENTS Letter From the Director..........................6 Program Following page.......................13 Dana’s 20th Celebration Feature.........18 Cover Photo: Jessica Payne & Jonnathan Ramirez by Rachel Neville COLORADO BALLET PUBLICATION 2021/2022
4 Colorado Ballet
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The Barber of Seville
CARMEN Georges Bizet
THE BARBER OF SEVILLE Gioachino Rossini
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LIBRETTO Cesare Sterbini
Giuseppe Verdi
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The Barber of Seville Illustration by Benedetto Cristofani
FROM THE ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Friends and supporters, I am delighted to welcome you to our first performances of the new year. Thank you for joining us today for Romeo and Juliet, one of the most beautiful yet tragic romances of all time. Derek Deane’s dynamic choreography and evocative storytelling, combined with Sergei Prokofiev’s phenomenal score and exquisite sets and costumes designed by Roberta Guidi di Bagno, bring the beauty and heartbreak of William Shakespeare’s timeless tale to life. I cannot wait for you to enjoy this breathtaking production, first performed by Colorado Ballet in 2018, and I look forward to transporting you once again to the cobblestone streets of fair Verona. Although 2021 was not without its challenges, Colorado Ballet successfully presented two spectacular productions, Giselle and The Nutcracker, to live audiences at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, and we have you to thank. Your enduring support for Colorado Ballet and this beloved art form – through ticket purchases, generous contributions and event attendance – continues to lift us up and propel us onwards, even in the face of such tumult and uncertainty. Time and time again, we are inspired by the steadfast strength, perseverance and encouragement of our Colorado community. Our gratitude for you is beyond measure. As we step forward into 2022, I wish to take a moment to honor Principal Dancer Dana Benton, who is celebrating her 20th season with Colorado Ballet. This incredible accomplishment is a testament not only to Dana’s elegant artistry and polished technique, but also to her love for and dedication to her craft. It has been a joy to watch her blossom over the years into the masterful dancer she is today, and I am thrilled to see her debut in the challenging and rewarding role of Juliet in this production. I invite you to see Dana and the rest of our immensely talented Company during the remainder of our 2021/2022 season. Our final two productions are truly a love letter to innovation in dance. The Wizard of Oz, Septime Webre’s acclaimed ballet, returns to the Ellie next month for the first time since its 2019 premiere. Dorothy, Toto and the rest of L. Frank Baum’s beloved characters will pirouette, jeté and “floss” back down the Yellow Brick Road on a whimsical adventure that will delight audiences of all ages. In April, three world-renowned masterpieces that pushed the boundaries of dance in the 20th century take center stage – George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, Jirí Kylián’s Petite Mort and Twyla Tharp’s Nine Sinatra Songs. I hope that you will also join us for our exciting 2022/2023 season, which will feature four full-length ballets and one repertory production at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House with live music by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra. We look forward to sharing even more world-class ballet with you in the coming months. Please enjoy today’s performance of Romeo and Juliet.
Gil Boggs Artistic Director
6 Colorado Ballet
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m a r c h 1 1 – 2 0 , 2 022 Ellie C aulki n s Op e ra H ou s e W I T H L I V E M U S I C F E AT U R I N G T H E
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COLORADO BALLET BOARD OF TRUSTEES EXECUTIVE BOARD Board Co-Chairs Greg Laugero Susan W. Bailey Secretary JoAnne Zboyan Finance Co-Chairs Brent L. Backes Curt Hockemeier Advancement Co-Chairs Merry Logan Denise Sanderson Academy Co-Chairs Raydean Acevedo Holly Baroway, CFP Governance Co-Chairs Colleen Curran Michael E. Korenblat, Esq.
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E L L I E C A U L K I N S O P E R A H O U S E · M AY 28, 2022 · 1:00P M & 6:00P M COLORADO BALLET ACADEMY LEVELS 1 - PRE-PROFESSIONAL DIVISION
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Nicolas Pelletier & Francesca Martoccio by Rachel Neville
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Founders Lillian Covillo and Freidann Parker Artistic Director Gil Boggs Ballet Masters Sandra Brown, Lorita Travaglia, Maria Mosina Musical Director and Principal Conductor Adam Flatt Associate Conductor Catherine Sailer THE COMPANY Principals Dana Benton, Jennifer Grace, Mario Labrador, Jonnathan Ramirez, Yosvani Ramos, Asuka Sasaki Soloists Leah McFadden, Christophor Moulton, Nicolas Pelletier, Kevin Gaël Thomas, Sarah Tryon Demi-Soloists Mackenzie Dessens, Sean Omandam, Melissa Zoebisch Corps de Ballet Joshua Allenback, Liam Hogan, Ever Larson, Bryce Lee, Francesca Martoccio, Ariel McCarty, Christopher Mitchell, Jessica Payne, Alexander Roy, Jeremy Studinski, Sara Thomas, Alexandra Wilson Apprentices Catherine Aoki, Alexandra Gilliom, Sheridan Guerin, Catherine McGregor, Patrick Mihm, Jacob Ray Studio Company Roman Aldrete, Lily Bines, Mylie Buck, Vanessa Childress, Claire Curran, EmmaRose Forbus, Leopold Foster, Jacqueline Gionet, Kyra Hughes, Fiona Hutchens, Cate Jesser, Hannah Lesold, Stefanee Montesantos, Ryan Nemmers, Gabriela Rodriguez, Sonata Ross, Timothy Ruelas, Lili Travaglia, Ali Walters, Leah White Colorado Ballet | 1075 Santa Fe Drive, Denver, CO 80204 | 303-837-8888 | COLORADOBALLET.ORG Out of courtesy to the dancers, the taking of photographs of any nature is strictly prohibited during performances. Please silence all cellular telephones, pagers and audible devices. Colorado Ballet productions are made possible in part by funding from the citizens of the Scientific & Cultural Facilities District. The Dancers of Colorado Ballet are represented by The American Guild of Musical Artists, AFL-CIO; the union that represents Artists in the fields of opera, ballet, modern dance and choral presentations.
Colorado Ballet Presents
ROMEO AND JULIET February 4 – 13, 2022
Ellie Caulkins Opera House Music by Sergei Prokofiev Choreography by Derek Deane Scenic and Costume Design by Roberta di Bagno Guidi Staged by Ivan Gil-Ortega, Sandra Brown and Lorita Travaglia Lighting Design by Todd Elmer Scenery and Costumes Courtesy of PITTSBURGH BALLET THEATRE Synopsis ACT I Scene I - The Market Square The city of Verona is split by a feud between the Montague and Capulet families. Romeo, a young Montague, is paying court to fair Rosaline. The town comes to life. Romeo, Mercutio and Benvolio encounter the Capulet Tybalt and his retainers, and a quarrel develops. The quarrel is interrupted by the arrival of the Prince of Verona and peace is temporarily restored. Scene II – Juliet’s Anteroom Juliet is playing with her companions and her nurse. Her parents, Lord and Lady Capulet, arrive with Paris, a young man whom they have chosen to be her husband. Scene III - Outside the Capulet House The Capulet family welcomes its guests to the masked ball. Lord Capulet greets his guests including Rosaline, who is pursued by Romeo, and Paris, who is still seeking Juliet’s hand in marriage. Romeo, Benvolio and Mercutio join the ball in disguise. Scene IV - Inside the Capulet House The masked celebration begins. Juliet enters with her friends. Romeo and Juliet meet and are captivated by each other. As they dance together, Romeo is recognised by Tybalt who tries to throw him out of the house. Lord Capulet intervenes and the guests start to depart. Scene V - The Capulet’s Garden Juliet is standing on her balcony dreaming of Romeo. Romeo arrives and they dance, declaring their eternal love for each other. Intermission ACT II Scene I - The Market Square The following day in the market square, Juliet’s nurse arrives with a letter for Romeo. Romeo reads that Juliet has arranged for Friar Lawrence to marry them secretly in his chapel later the same day. Scene II - A Chapel Romeo arrives at the chapel to be greeted by Friar Lawrence. Juliet arrives and the two lovers are married. Scene III - The Market Square Tybalt comes to the market square looking for Romeo. He tries to provoke Romeo to fight and, when Romeo refuses, his challenge is taken up by Mercutio. In the ensuing fight, Mercutio is killed. On seeing his friend slain, Romeo takes his revenge and kills Tybalt. Devastated by Tybalt’s death, Lady Capulet seeks revenge. The marketplace empties as Lady Capulet mourns her loss. Intermission ACT III Scene I – Juliet’s Bedroom Having spent their wedding night together, Romeo wakes to realize that he must leave Juliet and Verona before he is discovered. Lord and Lady Capulet arrive to prepare for Juliet’s marriage to Paris. Juliet announces her refusal to marry Paris and her parents are furious. In despair, Juliet runs to Friar Lawrence to seek his help. 2 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Scene II - A Chapel Arriving at the Chapel, Juliet explains her predicament to the Friar. He has a solution. She is to drink a potion that will send her into a deep sleep. Thinking her dead, her parents will place her in the family crypt. Meanwhile, Friar Lawrence promises to tell Romeo of the plan. Romeo will return at night to carry Juliet away when she awakes. Juliet foresees herself reunited with Romeo. Scene III – Juliet’s Bedroom Juliet agrees to be married to Paris. Left alone, she drinks the potion. Scene IV – Juliet’s Anteroom Juliet’s nurse and friends arrive to prepare Juliet for her wedding, but when they try to wake her, she appears to be dead. The wedding turns into a funeral. Scene V - The Capulet Crypt Juliet is laid to rest in the Capulet crypt. Romeo arrives. Not knowing of Friar Lawrence’s plan, he believes Juliet to be dead. He finds Paris and in the fight that follows, Paris is killed. Overcome with grief at the death of Juliet, Romeo poisons himself. Juliet wakes and finds the bodies of Paris and then Romeo in the crypt. Unable to live without Romeo, she takes her own life.
CASTING Casting for February 4-6, 2022 Juliet Dana Benton (2/4, 2/5 eve), Jennifer Grace (2/5 mat, 2/6) Romeo Yosvani Ramos (2/4, 2/5 eve), Mario Labrador (2/5 mat, 2/6) Mercutio Kevin Gaël Thomas (2/4, 2/5 eve), Jonnathan Ramirez (2/5 mat, 2/6) Benvolio Jeremy Studinski (2/4, 2/5 eve), Christopher Mitchell (2/5 mat, 2/6) Tybalt Jonnathan Ramirez (2/4, 2/5 eve) Nicolas Pelletier (2/5 mat, 2/6) Paris Christophor Moulton (2/4, 2/5 eve), Patrick Mihm (2/5 mat, 2/6) Rosaline Leah McFadden (2/4, 2/5 eve), Asuka Sasaki (2/5 mat, 2/6) Nurse Lorita Travaglia Friar Lawrence Alan Rubin Lord Capulet Gregory Gonzales Lady Capulet Maria Mosina (2/4, 2/5 eve), Erica Fischbach (2/5 mat, 2/6) Lord Montague Richard Newton
Please note that all casting is subject to change. Visit COLORADOBALLET.ORG/ROMEO-AND-JULIET for the most up-to-date casting. Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 3
Lady Montague Alexandra Wilson (2/4, 2/5 eve), Ariel McCarty (2/5 mat, 2/6) Escalus, Prince of Verona Domenico Luciano Harlots Melissa Zoebisch, Ariel McCarty and Francesca Martoccio (2/4, 2/5 eve), Sara Thomas, Alexandra Wilson and Mackenzie Dessens (2/5 mat, 2/6) Rosaline’s Friends Catherine Aoki, Mackenzie Dessens, Jessica Payne and Sheridan Guerin (2/4, 2/5 eve), Lili Travaglia, Gabriela Rodriguez, EmmaRose Forbus and Sonata Ross (2/5 mat, 2/6) Tybalt’s Aides Joshua Allenback and Sean Omandam (2/4, 2/5 eve), Jeremy Studinski and Bryce Lee (2/5 mat, 2/6) Townspeople Sara Thomas, Sonata Ross, Alexandra Gilliom, Catherine McGregor, Lili Travaglia, Gabriela Rodriguez, Jacquline Gionet, Kyra Hughes, Fiona Hutchens and Ali Walters (2/4, 2/5 eve), Leah White, Catherine Aoki, Lily Bines, Fiona Hutchens, Ali Walters, Sheridan Guerin, Cate Jesser, Mylie Buck, Jacqueline Gionet and Claire Curran (2/5 mat, 2/6), Jacob Ray, Alexander Roy, Bryce Lee (2/4, 2/5 eve), Ryan Nemmers (2/5 mat, 2/6), Christopher Mitchell (2/4, 2/5 eve), Timothy Ruelas (2/5 mat, 2/6), Leopold Foster, Liam Hogan, Patrick Mihm (2/4, 2/5 eve), Joshua Allenback (2/5 mat, 2/6), Roman Aldrete Market Sellers Thomas Fontana, Grant Gonzales, Ryan Nemmers, Axel Rickard, Ryder Rickard, Timothy Ruelas Children Rehearsed by Anna Duvall Kennedy Kintner, Julia Del Ciotto, Emma Boggs, Tamar Moskovich, Zoe Popp, Addyson Popp and Griffin Ho (2/4), Willett Pring (2/4, 2/5 mat, 2/6), Sophia Michie, Claire Coughlin, Tatum Benedict, Aubrey Duvall Cumberland, Caroline Liu, Savannah Kovar and Mason Jones (2/5 mat, 2/6), Cary Lu, Pauline Lyons, Mackenzie Roark, Emerson Barnes, Juliette Steirer, Piper Beunier, Rigel Martinez and Luka Jovanovic (2/5 eve) Guards & Lantern Holders Duke Hartman, David McGovern, Jeremy Rau, Elliot Smith, César Tavard, Cobin Tonsmeire, Michael Williams Juliet’s Friends Catherine Aoki, Mackenzie Dessens and Sheridan Guerin (2/4, 2/5 eve), Lili Travaglia, Kyra Hughes and Leah White (2/5 mat, 2/6), Jessica Payne, Sonata Ross, Gabriela Rodriguez Ballroom Couples Alexandra Gilliom (2/4, 2/5 eve), Fiona Hutchens (2/5 mat, 2/6), Ever Larson, Catherine McGregor (2/4, 2/5 eve), Cate Jesser (2/5 mat, 2/6), Ariel McCarty (2/4, 2/5 eve), Claire Curran (2/5 mat, 2/6), Sara Thomas (2/4, 2/5 eve), Stefanee Montesantos (2/5 mat, 2/6), Kyra Hughes (2/4, 2/5 eve), Lily Bines (2/5 mat, 2/6), Vanessa Childress, Hannah Lesold, Sean Omandam (2/4, 2/5 eve), Leopold Foster (2/5 mat, 2/6), Bryce Lee (2/4, 2/5 eve), Ryan Nemmers (2/5 mat, 2/6), Alexander Roy, Jacob Ray, Joshua Allenback, Christopher Mitchell (2/4, 2/5 eve), Timothy Ruelas (2/5 mat, 2/6), Liam Hogan, Patrick Mihm (2/4, 2/5 eve), Roman Aldrete (2/5 mat, 2/6) Rosaline Attendants Thomas Fontana, Grant Gonzales
Please note that all casting is subject to change. Visit COLORADOBALLET.ORG/ROMEO-AND-JULIET for the most up-to-date casting. 4 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Monks Joshua Allenback, Liam Hogan, Christopher Mitchell, Jacob Ray, Fiona Hutchens, Stefanee Montesantos, Claire Curran, Leopold Foster, Ryan Nemmers, Roman Aldrete, Timothy Ruelas, Lily Bines, Vanessa Childress, Hannah Lesold, Thomas Fontana, Grant Gonzales Conductor Adam Flatt, Music Director & Principal Conductor
Casting for February 11-13, 2022 Juliet Dana Benton (2/11, 2/13), Sarah Tryon (2/12 mat), Jennifer Grace (2/12 eve) Romeo Yosvani Ramos (2/11, 2/13), Nicolas Pelletier (2/12 mat), Mario Labrador (2/12 eve) Mercutio Kevin Gaël Thomas (2/11, 2/13), Sean Omandam (2/12 mat), Jonnathan Ramirez (2/12 eve) Benvolio Jeremy Studinski (2/11, 2/13), Liam Hogan (2/12 mat), Christopher Mitchell (2/12 eve) Tybalt Jonnathan Ramirez (2/11, 2/13), Christophor Moulton (2/12 mat), Nicolas Pelletier (2/12 eve) Paris Christophor Moulton (2/11, 2/13), Mario Labrador (2/12 mat), Patrick Mihm (2/12 eve) Rosaline Leah McFadden (2/11, 2/13), Melissa Zoebisch (2/12 mat), Asuka Sasaki (2/12 eve) Nurse Lorita Travaglia Friar Lawrence Alan Rubin Lord Capulet Gregory Gonzales Lady Capulet Maria Mosina (2/11, 12/12 mat, 2/13), Erica Fischbach (2/12 eve) Lord Montague Richard Newton Lady Montague Alexandra Wilson (2/11, 2/13), Ariel McCarty (2/12) Escalus, Prince of Verona Domenico Luciano Harlots Melissa Zoebisch, Ariel McCarty and Francesca Martoccio (2/11, 2/13), Catherine McGregor (2/12 mat), Sara Thomas (2/12 eve), Alexandra Wilson and Mackenzie Dessens (2/12)
Please note that all casting is subject to change. Visit COLORADOBALLET.ORG/ROMEO-AND-JULIET for the most up-to-date casting. Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 5
Rosaline’s Friends Catherine Aoki, Mackenzie Dessens, and Sheridan Guerin (2/11, 2/13), Lili Travaglia, Gabriela Rodriguez, and Sonata Ross (2/12), Jessica Payne Tybalt’s Aides Joshua Allenback and Sean Omandam (2/11, 2/13), Jeremy Studinski and Bryce Lee (2/12) Townspeople Sara Thomas, Sonata Ross, Alexandra Gilliom, Catherine McGregor, Lili Travaglia, Gabriela Rodriguez, Cate Jesser, Kyra Hughes, Fiona Hutchens and Ali Walters (2/11, 2/13), Leah White, Catherine Aoki, Lily Bines, Fiona Hutchens, Ali Walters, Sheridan Guerin, Jacqueline Gionet, Mylie Buck, Cate Jesser and Claire Curran (2/12), Jacob Ray, Alexander Roy, Bryce Lee (2/11, 2/13), Ryan Nemmers (2/12), Christopher Mitchell (2/11, 2/13), Timothy Ruelas (2/12), Leopold Foster, Liam Hogan, Thomas Fontana (2/12 mat), Patrick Mihm (2/11), Joshua Allenback (2/12), Roman Aldrete Market Sellers Thomas Fontana, Grant Gonzales, Ryan Nemmers, Axel Rickard, Ryder Rickard, Timothy Ruelas Children Rehearsed by Anna Duvall Kennedy Kintner, Julia Del Ciotto, Emma Boggs, Tamar Moskovich, Zoe Popp, Addyson Popp and Griffin Ho (2/11, 2/13), Willett Pring (2/11, 2/12 eve, 2/13), Cary Lu, Pauline Lyons, Mackenzie Roark, Emerson Barnes, Juliette Steirer, Piper Beunier, Rigel Martinez and Luka Jovanovic (2/12 mat), Sophia Michie, Claire Coughlin, Tatum Benedict, Aubrey Duvall Cumberland, Caroline Liu, Savannah Kovar and Mason Jones (2/12 eve) Guards & Lantern Holders Duke Hartman, David McGovern, Jeremy Rau, Elliot Smith, César Tavard, Cobin Tonsmeire, Michael Williams Juliet’s Friends Catherine Aoki, Mackenzie Dessens and Sheridan Guerin (2/11, 2/13), Lili Travaglia, Kyra Hughes and Leah White (2/12), Jessica Payne, Sonata Ross, Gabriela Rodriguez Ballroom Couples Alexandra Gilliom (2/11, 2/13), Fiona Hutchens (2/12), Ever Larson, Catherine McGregor (2/11, 2/13), Cate Jesser (2/12), Claire Curran (2/11, 2/13), Ariel McCarty (2/12), Sara Thomas (2/11, 2/13), Stefanee Montesantos (2/12), Kyra Hughes (2/11, 2/13), Lily Bines (2/12), Vanessa Childress, Hannah Lesold, Sean Omandam (2/11, 2/13), Leopold Foster (2/12), Bryce Lee (2/11, 2/13), Ryan Nemmers (2/12), Alexander Roy, Jacob Ray, Joshua Allenback, Christopher Mitchell (2/11, 2/13), Timothy Ruelas (2/12), Liam Hogan, Thomas Fontana (2/12 mat), Patrick Mihm (2/11), Roman Aldrete (2/12, 2/13) Rosaline Attendants Thomas Fontana (2/11, 2/12 eve, 2/13), Grant Gonzales Monks Joshua Allenback, Liam Hogan, Christopher Mitchell, Jacob Ray, Fiona Hutchens, Stefanee Montesantos, Claire Curran, Leopold Foster, Ryan Nemmers, Roman Aldrete, Timothy Ruelas, Lily Bines, Vanessa Childress, Hannah Lesold, Thomas Fontana, Grant Gonzales Conductor Adam Flatt, Music Director & Principal Conductor
Please note that all casting is subject to change. Visit COLORADOBALLET.ORG/ROMEO-AND-JULIET for the most up-to-date casting. 6 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Gil Boggs, Artistic Director
ARTISTIC STAFF
Gil Boggs began his dance career with the Atlanta Ballet. He joined American Ballet Theatre in New York in 1982 and was promoted to soloist dancer in 1984 and principal dancer in 1991. Boggs was a member of the company for 17 years. Boggs also performed with the Twyla Tharp Dance Company, Baryshnikov and Company, Nureyev and Friends, and made several guest appearances around the world. During his career with ABT, he was recognized as both an accomplished virtuoso and one of the company’s most popular performers. Boggs has worked with numerous noted choreographers, including Agnes de Mille, Sir Kenneth MacMillan, Paul Taylor, Mark Morris, Jerome Robbins and Merce Cunningham and has an extensive performance repertoire of both classical and contemporary works. Boggs accepted the position of Artistic Director with Colorado Ballet in the Spring of 2006. In Boggs’ tenure with Colorado Ballet he has restaged full-length productions of Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Don Quixote and Coppelia along with adding new full-length productions of Romeo & Juliet, Cinderella, Le Corsaire, Beauty and the Beast and Peter Pan. Boggs has also presented 15 world premieres and 15 Colorado Ballet premieres by such renowned choreographers as Twyla Tharp, Lar Lubovitch, Anthony Tudor, Val Caniparoli, Dwight Rhoden and Lynne Taylor-Corbett.
Sandra Brown, Ballet Master/Assistant to the Artistic Director Sandra Brown joined the corps de ballet of American Ballet Theatre in 1987 under the directorship of Mikhail Baryshnikov and was promoted to soloist in 1992 where she remained until 2003. During that time, she danced not only numerous classical full length principal roles, but gained recognition for her leading contemporary roles as well. Most notably, she created and danced the world premiere role of Desdemona in Lar Lubovitch’s full-length Othello in 1997 and appears in ABT’s film productions of Romeo and Juliet, Le Corsaire, and the documentary Ballet. In 2000, Brown was featured in the movie Center Stage and appears in the film The Company. Brown also holds the honor of appearing on Broadway as the original Louise Bigelow in the Tony Award-winning 1994 revival of Carousel, directed by Nicholas Hytner and choreographed by Sir Kenneth MacMillan at the Lincoln Center Theater. In 2003, Brown left ABT to pursue work as a freelance artist with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Stiefel and Stars, Vladimir Malakhov, Peter Boal and Company, Chamber Dance Project, Dancers Patrelle, Ballet Hawaii and Madison Ballet. During this time, she also was asked to perform as a guest artist at the Vail International Festival, became certified to teach Pilates, taught for the ABT Summer Intensive, and choreographed the ballet Synchronicity. In 2006, she joined her husband, Gil Boggs, to work with Colorado Ballet. Since then, she has assisted staging the full-length productions of Giselle, Don Quixote, and Christopher Wheeldon’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Brown has also assisted with choreographing and staging of The Nutcracker, Coppélia, The Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake. In addition, she assisted staging Lar Lubovitch’s Smile with My Heart, Dwight Rhoden’s Ave Maria, Twyla Tharp’s In The Upper Room, Clark Tippet’s Bruch Violin Concerto No. 1, and Edwaard Liang’s Feast of the Gods. Brown restaged her ballet, Synchronicity, for Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company. In 2007, she was asked to stage Smile with My Heart for the
Joffrey Ballet. In 2013, she staged Lynne Taylor-Corbett’s Great Galloping Gottschalk at the University of South Carolina and in 2014 at NBA of Japan. In 1989 and 1990, she was chosen by Mikhail Baryshnikov to choreograph for the American Ballet Theatre Choreographic Workshop. During her tenure, she has choreographed for the Bal de Ballet, an event hosted by the Denver Ballet Guild. Her creations are From Within, Crimson Surges, Unforgettable, Grand Pas Fantastique, Heart Strings, One by One, Set Fire to the Rain, The Secret Garden, Young and Beautiful, The Charleston, Scheherazade, and Pirates of the Caribbean. In 2014, she gained critical acclaim for the ballet The Last Beat, which she created on the dancers of Colorado Ballet to the music of DeVotchKa.
Generously supported by Duke and Pam Hartman
Lorita Travaglia, Ballet Master Lorita Travaglia is originally from New Zealand. She received her ballet training at the National School of Ballet and later the Royal Ballet School in London. Lorita made her debut as a professional dancer with the Berlin Ballet. After six years with the Company, she moved to the United States where she worked with Princeton Ballet, Boston Ballet, Atlanta Ballet and International Ballet Rotaru, dancing solo and principal roles in a wide range of repertoire. Her favorite roles include Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, Swanhilda in Coppelia, Cinderella, Sugarplum Fairy in The Nutcracker and Paquita. In 1992, Lorita returned to New Zealand, but continued to perform as a guest artist with companies in the United States as well as Company Z, a contemporary dance company in New Zealand. Lorita began teaching in 1988 while still performing and studied the Vaganova methodology. She was the principal teacher for a professional training program in Auckland, New Zealand and later, as artistic director of Canyon Concert Ballet in Fort Collins, Colorado, she set up a similar aspirant program. In 1999, Lorita joined Colorado Ballet as director of the Apprentice Program and company repetiteur, and has been ballet master since 2006. Her choreography includes Equanimity, Aspects, Pictures at an Exhibition, Piazzolla and, most recently, The Angel of Buenos Aires for Colorado Ballet and a full-length The Nutcracker for Canyon Concert Ballet. Lorita graduated from the Colorado School of Traditional Chinese Medicine in 2000 and has a private practice in Denver. She is an avid tango dancer and is the Creative Director of Parasol Arts.
Generously supported by Raydean Acevedo Maria Mosina, Ballet Master Maria Mosina was born in Moscow and graduated from the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Russia. Upon graduation, Maria joined the Bolshoi Ballet Grigorovich Company and immediately was chosen for principal roles. She toured the world appearing on all major European, American, African and Asian stages. In 1995, Maria was invited by Colorado Ballet to join as a leading principal dancer. She performed all major parts in classical productions and also had the chance to show her talent in neoclassical, modern and contemporary choreographed master pieces. Maria was a featured dancer on the cover of Dance Magazine and has been featured in other magazine articles. She holds a bachelor’s
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 7
ARTISTIC STAFF degree in methodology and pedagogy from the Moscow State Academy of Choreography. She is also an active ballet instructor throughout the United States. She participated as a master teacher and judge for the Youth American Grand Prix. Maria performed leading roles in all major productions as a member of the Company, as well as a guest artist with many other festivals, galas, and companies. After 21 seasons as a principal dancer with Colorado Ballet, she retired at the end of the 2016/2017 season. She has now joined the artistic staff of the company.
Generously supported by Paul Goodspeed and Mary Poole
Adam Flatt, Music Director & Principal Conductor Adam Flatt has served as Music Director and Principal Conductor of Colorado Ballet since 2007, conducting hundreds of performances in the Ellie Caulkins Opera House and leading the Colorado Ballet Orchestra to a widely recognized period of excellence. Well known to Colorado audiences, Adam served as Associate Conductor of the Colorado Symphony Orchestra, where he led over 250 concerts in an acclaimed five-year tenure, and Music Director of the Denver Young Artists Orchestra for seven years, leading that orchestra at home in Denver and on international tours. In addition to his work at Colorado Ballet, Adam is Music Director of the Newport Symphony Orchestra on the Oregon coast, and the Tuscaloosa Symphony Orchestra. As a guest conductor he has led performances with orchestras all over the United States and productions for the major ballet companies of Portland and Salt Lake City. He has served on the musical faculties of both the Rocky Ridge Music Center and Summerfest at the Curtis Institute of Music. Adam Flatt has his bachelor’s degree in music with honors from the University of California at Berkeley, and his master’s degree in instrumental and opera conducting from the Indiana University School of Music. Adam Flatt and his family make their home in Denver. www.adamflatt.com
Generously supported by Sandy Elliott
8 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Catherine Sailer, Associate Conductor Catherine Sailer, Director of Choral Studies at the University of Denver, conducts the Lamont Chorale, Lamont Women’s Chorus and the Evans Choir. She is also the Associate Conductor of the Colorado Ballet Orchestra. She was named the winner of the Robert Shaw Fellowship in 2005, chosen by Chorus America and supported by Warner Brothers and the National Endowment for the Arts. Her other awards include first place at the American Choral Director’s Association Conducting Competition. Conducting Credits include the Atlanta Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic, Santa Fe Symphony Orchestra, Beijing Symphony Orchestra, the National Opera of China, the Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music Orchestra and the Central City Opera. Sailer has been a conducting fellow with the Dale Warland Singers, the Kansas City Chorale, the Chicago Symphony Chorus, the Carnegie Hall Workshop Chorus, and the Orchestra of St. Luke’s. She has collaborated as conductor or chorus master with singers William Warfield and Marilyn Horne and conductors Victor Yampolsky, Marius Szmolij, Stephen Alltop, David Amram, Tan Dun, David Fanshawe, and Marin Alsop. Sailer was invited to conduct in the National Conducting Institute with the National Symphony Orchestra as a student of Leonard Slatkin. She also conducted performances of the festival chorus and orchestra at the Oregon Bach Festival under the tutelage of Helmuth Rilling. Catherine Sailer received the Doctor of Music with honors in conducting from Northwestern University and the Bachelor and Master of Music degrees in Piano Performance and Conducting from the University of Denver. She has served as Assistant Conductor of the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra, the Denver Young Artists Orchestra and as Music Director of the Musica Sacra Chamber Orchestra. She is an active guest and festival conductor for choir and orchestra and her collegiate ensembles have appeared at Colorado Music Educator’s Association and Southwest divisional conferences of the American Choral Director’s Association.
DANCERS PRINCIPALS Dana Benton Dana Benton was born in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada and at the age of 9, she was accepted to the National Ballet School in Toronto where she trained for eight years. Dana graduated from the National Ballet School with Honors in Academics and was awarded the Peter Dwyer Award for Excellence in Dance. Upon graduating in 2000, Dana received a contract with Alberta Ballet Company in Canada. She spent one year with the Company as an Apprentice. In 2001, she joined Colorado Ballet and she has performed many Soloist and Principal roles with the Company. Dana was promoted to Soloist in 2007 and then to Principal in 2014.
Generously supported by Jane and Skip Netzorg Jennifer Grace
Jennifer Grace was born in Bozeman, Montana. She trained at The Dance Center in Bozeman, The Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, Russia and Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy in Southern California. Jennifer was hired by Tulsa Ballet’s Second Company in 2013 and was promoted to Corps de Ballet in November of that same year. By 2017 she was a Soloist with the company and had performed many Principal and Soloist roles. She has had the opportunity to perform works by choreographers such as Christopher Wheeldon, Derek Deane, Ben Stevenson, William Forsythe, Nacho Duato, Wayne McGregor and Alejandro Cerrudo. Jennifer was Pointe Magazine’s August/September 2018 Cover Star.
Generously supported by Ann and Ford Frick Mario Labrador
Mario Vitale Labrador was born in Antioch, CA. At the age of 10, he began his ballet studies under the tutelage of Ronn Guidi. At the age of 19, Mario decided to attend the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow, Russia. During his time at the Academy, Mario performed as the lead in many school productions, including their production of La Fille Mal Gardee, Paquita, Harlequinade and Classical Symphony. In 2012, Mario graduated top of his class and received an invitation to join the Mikhailovsky Theatre in St Petersburg, Russia, where he eventually became a Soloist. While there, he had the opportunity to work with world famous choreographers Nacho Duato and Lar Lubovitch. He also danced a number of lead roles in classical ballets such as Swan Lake, Chippolino, and Giselle. Other notable ballets in his repertoire are The Nutcracker, La Fille Mal Gardee, Don Quixote, Flames of Paris, Class Concert, Romeo and Juliet and The Bronze Horseman. In 2016, Mario left the Mikhailovsky Theatre, where he took a two year break from ballet. In 2018, Mario joined Central West Ballet as a Principal, where he danced the leads in all the ballets. His favorite role to dance while at Central West Ballet was Dracula in Rene Daveluy’s
World Premiere production of Dracula. This is his first season with Colorado Ballet.
Generously supported by Mary Ellen and David Wright Jonnathan Ramirez
Jonnathan Ramirez is originally from Cali, Colombia. At the age of 8 he began his training at the Colombian Institute of Ballet, Incolballet. After graduating at 16, he moved to New York City where he received a full scholarship to continue his training at American Ballet Theatre’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School of Ballet. In 2007 he danced with Cincinnati Ballet for two seasons, then in 2009 he joined Houston Ballet. In 2010 Jonnathan joined the Tulsa Ballet Theatre where he performed numerous soloist and principal roles over ten consecutive years before joining Colorado Ballet in 2020.
Generously supported by Lynnette Morrison Yosvani Ramos
Yosvani Ramos was born in Camagüey, Cuba and trained at the National Ballet School. In 1998, he went on to dance with Jeune Ballet de France and Ballet de l’Opéra National de Paris. He joined English National Ballet as a Soloist in 1999 and was promoted to Senior Soloist in 2000, then Principal dancer in 2003 after his performance as Franz in Coppélia. He danced with ENB until 2008, when he joined The Australian Ballet as a Principal Artist, where he remained until April 2013. He spent several months guesting then joined the Cincinnati Ballet as Principal Dancer in 2014. Yosvani joined Colorado Ballet in 2015 as a Principal Dancer.
Generously supported by Katherine and Michael Whitcomb Asuka Sasaki
Asuka Sasaki was born in Nagano, Japan. She trained at the Emiko Kojima Ballet School, Yo Ballet Academy in Japan and Beijing Dance Academy in China. After Beijing Dance Academy she joined Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet as an Aspirant. She started dancing with Colorado Ballet in 2005 as a member of the Corps de Ballet, was promoted to Soloist in 2010 and then to Principal in 2017. With Colorado Ballet, she has worked with accomplished choreographers such as Val Caniparoli, Derek Deane, Septime Webre, Eldar Aliev, Michael Pink, Ben Stevenson, Lynn TaylorCorbett, Martin Fredmann, Lila York, Jessica Lang, Dwight Rhoden, Edwaard Liang and Amy Seiwert.
Generously supported by Debby Herz
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 9
DANCERS SOLOISTS
Kevin Gaël Thomas
Leah McFadden
Kevin Gaël Thomas is from France and studied at Rosella Hightower’s International Ballet Center and at Canada’s National Ballet School, where he received a full scholarship and graduated in 2006, with honors. Kevin also graduated with honors from the Music Conservatory in France for piano. He danced for a year with Houston Ballet II, then joined Colorado Ballet in 2007. Since joining the Company he has performed many soloist and leading roles. Kevin was chosen to represent France at the New York International Ballet Competition in 2009 and at the USA Jackson International Ballet Competition in 2010. He was promoted to Soloist in 2016.
Leah Rose McFadden grew up in a small town called Dowagiac, MI. At age 11, she began training with Southold Dance Theatre, a pre-professional ballet school in South Bend, IN. During Leah’s six years at Southold, under the direction of Erica Fischbach, she participated in YAGP and received a number of awards. Leah also attended summer intensives at Gelsey Kirkland Academy, Grand Rapids Ballet, Miami City Ballet and Colorado Ballet. In 2015, she joined Miami City Ballet’s Pre-Professional program yearround. During her time there, Leah also performed with Miami City Ballet’s company as well as touring with them to New York and Chicago performing various works. Leah joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2016 and was promoted to the main company in 2018.
Generously supported by Douglas Richards Christophor Moulton
Christophor Moulton was born in Colorado Springs, Colorado and began his training with Rozanne David at the Dance Center of Colorado Springs and continued his training in Colorado with German Zemuel. He graduated from the Harid Conservatory in Florida, where he trained under Svetlana Osiyeva, Olivier Pardina and Victoria Schnider. During his years at Harid, Christophor performed numerous roles including Siegfried in Swan Lake and the lead in Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante. He also studied for a year at the Jacquelyn Kennedy Onassis School under Franco Devita. Christophor joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2009, was promoted to the Company in 2010 and then to Soloist in 2017.
Generously supported by Peggy Goldman Nicolas Pelletier
Nicolas Pelletier was born in Quebec City, Canada. He moved to California when he was eight, where he attended the San Francisco Ballet School for 10 years. He completed his training with Canada’s National Ballet School in 2010 and joined Alberta Ballet in 2011. During his six years with the Company, he had the opportunity to dance many principal roles. He also had the pleasure of working closely with Jean Grand-Maître in the creation of many new works throughout his time at Alberta Ballet, including pas de deuxs and solos. He joined Colorado Ballet in 2017.
Generously supported by Carla Dore
Generously supported by Elizabeth Katkin-Waryn and Richard Waryn Sarah Tryon
Sarah Tryon was born in Hanmer, Ontario, Canada and started ballet at the age of 12 with Canada’s National Ballet School. During her six years with NBS, Sarah was selected to partake in exchange programs with various international schools including Pacific Northwest Ballet School in Seattle, École Supérieur De Danse Rosella Hightower in Cannes France, and Tanz Akademie Zurich in Switzerland. After graduating in 2010, she moved to New York City to train with world-renowned coach Edward Ellison. In 2013, Sarah joined the Sarasota Ballet from school as a corps de ballet member. Since joining Colorado Ballet in 2015, Sarah has performed an extensive array of notable soloist and principal roles including; Juliet in Derek Deane’s Romeo and Juliet, Giselle in Giselle, Mina in Michael Pink’s Dracula, Aqua in Clark Tippet’s Bruch Violin Concerto, Dark Angel in George Balanchine’s Serenade, Princess Florina in The Sleeping Beauty, In Trutina and Dulcicisseme in Fernand Nault’s Carmina Burana, Clara in The Nutcracker, Red in Twyla Tharp’s Brief Fling, Wendy in Michael Pink’s Peter Pan, Amour, Flower Girl, and Gypsy in Don Quixote, Red Couple in Lila York’s Celts, Second Pas in Val Caniparoli’s In Pieces, Amy Seiwert’s Traveling Alone, Jirí Kylián’s Petite Mort, and Edwaard Liang’s Feast of the Gods.
Generously supported by David Bayendor
DEMI-SOLOISTS Mackenzie Dessens Mackenzie Dessens is from New Orleans, Louisiana where she began her training at Giacobbe Academy of Dance and privately with Kimberly Beck. She attended summer programs in New York with the School of American Ballet and American Ballet Theatre. Mackenzie continued her training at Houston Ballet’s Ben Stevenson Academy and upon completion, joined Cincinnati Ballet’s second company. In 2015, she joined Colorado Ballet.
Generously supported by Kaye Ferry
10 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
DANCERS Sean Omandam Sean Omandam is from Fresno, California, where he began his training with Shirley Winters. He later went on to train on full-scholarship at the Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida. Upon his graduation in 2004, he joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company, and was promoted into the Company in 2005. With Colorado Ballet, Sean has performed a variety of soloist and principal roles. His repertory also includes featured roles in works by Lar Lubovitch, Val Caniparoli, Amy Seiwert, Edwaard Liang, Matthew Neenan, Jodie Gates, Dwight Rhoden, Darrell Grand Moultire, and Jessica Lang, among others.
Osiyeva. Following graduation with accolades in modern dance,Liam spent a year with the Washington Ballet Studio Company under the direction of Julie Kent. While dancing with the Washington Ballet, Liam was coached by Victor Barbee and Julie Kent. He also had the opportunity to work closely with choreographer Marco Pelle who set the pas de deux Libera! on him performing in multiple venues, including the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and the Italian Embassy in Washington DC. Liam was also honored to have Marcelo Gomez choreograph on him for the world premiere of his ballet Outset. Notable works include “Molly Pas de Deux” in John Neumeier’s Yondering, Libera! by Marco Pelle, Outset by Marcelo Gomes, and Minor Threat by Mark Godden. Liam joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2018, was promoted to Apprentice in the Company in 2019 and promoted to Corps de Ballet in 2020.
Generously supported by Cheri and Alan Rubin
Generously supported by Cari and Mark Spiecker
Melissa Zoebisch
Ever Larson
Melissa grew up in Mexico and studied at the Chamber Ballet of Jalisco. She received a scholarship to attend the Kirov Academy of Ballet in Madame Sizova’s class and, after a year, returned to Mexico to graduate. Throughout her school years, she participated in many workshops around the world including: Cuba, Canada, Austria, Spain and the United States. In 2005, Melissa joined the National Dance Company, where she danced soloist roles. She has also danced principal roles in classical ballets, original contemporary choreographies, and many others. She freelanced with her husband around the country before joining Colorado Ballet in 2014.
Ever Larson, from Chicago, began her formal training at Ballet Society of Colorado Springs before relocating to Denver for Colorado Ballet Academy’s full-time Pre-Professional program. Under the direction of Valerie Madonia and Erica Fischbach, she competed at YAGP, placing 1st in Senior Women’s Classical, and twice earned her way to YAGP Finals in NYC as a soloist. Ever attended many summer programs including Paris Opera Ballet, Académie Princesse Grace, San Francisco Ballet, Colorado Ballet, American Ballet Theatre NYC, and Kaatsbaan. Notable performances under Erica’s leadership include Odette in Swan Lake and Giselle in Giselle. Colorado Ballet performances include George Balanchine’s Serenade, Nikiya from La Bayadère, and other Corps de Ballet roles. Ever joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2019, was promoted to Apprentice in 2020 and to Corps de Ballet in 2021.
Generously supported by Christy Honnen
CORPS DE BALLET Josh Allenback Josh Allenback, a native of Colorado, has been dancing since he was four years old. He has studied on scholarship with American Ballet Theatre, The Rock School and Joffrey Ballet. He was a member of Houston Ballet II as well as Ballet San Antonio. Josh has performed many principal roles. He joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2013 and was promoted into the Company in 2014.
Generously supported by Rita and Brad Sonnenberg Liam Hogan
Liam Hogan grew up in Houston, Texas where he began his ballet training at the Houston Ballet Academy under the guidance of Claudio Muñoz and Andrew Murphy. Liam completed his training at the Harid Conservatory in Boca Raton, Florida under the guidance of Meelis Pakri and Svetlana
Generously supported by Casey Carson and Josh Majchrzak Bryce Lee
Bryce Lee was born in Missouri and started his professional training at 12 at Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy in Laguna Hills, CA. In the summer of 2011, he attended School of American Ballet, then was asked to stay for the Winter Term program from 2011-2012. He attended several summer courses on full scholarship including SAB, Miami City Ballet and Colorado Ballet. Bryce has received several awards in classical and contemporary forms of dance as well as 1st place, semi-finalist at YAGP Europe and two-time YAGP Finalist Qualifier. He joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2013 and was promoted to the Company in 2015.
Generously supported by Mike and Pam Copp
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 11
DANCERS Francesca Martoccio
Jessica Payne
Originally from Miami, Florida, Francesca Martoccio received her early ballet training at Thomas Armour Youth Ballet and at the New World School of the Arts. In May 2016, Francesca graduated from SUNY Purchase where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance with a Ballet Concentration. She performed several roles with Purchase Dance Company. In 2014, Francesca was chosen by the faculty to study abroad in Hong Kong, China at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts. After graduating, Francesca joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2016, was promoted to Apprentice in the Company in 2017 and then to the Corps de Ballet in 2019.
Jessica Payne is from San Clemente, California. She received her training at Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy under Dmitri and Jennifer Kulev in southern California. In 2015, she joined Tulsa Ballet’s second company and was promoted into the main company the following year, where she continued to dance until joining Colorado Ballet in 2020.
Generously supported by Adrienne Toon Ariel McCarty
Originally from Allen, TX, Ariel McCarty began dancing/ballet at the age of three. At the age of nine, she began training in Dallas at Texas Ballet Theatre under the direction of Jan Miller and Lyndette Galen. Ariel relocated to Denver to begin training with Colorado Ballet Academy’s PreProfessional program under Valerie Madonia and Erica Fischbach. While in the Academy, she had the opportunity to perform in numerous pieces and excerpts including as Swanilda in the Academy’s full production of Coppelia. As a part of her training, Ariel attended many summer intensives including TBTS, ABT, Boston Ballet, Ballet West, Colorado Ballet, School of OBT and Dance Theatre of Harlem, where her well-rounded training continued. In 2017, she was promoted to Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company and then to Apprentice in 2018. Ariel was promoted to the Corps de Ballet in 2020.
Generously supported by Yvette and Chris Frampton Christopher Mitchell
Christopher Mitchell was born in Denver, Colorado and began his training at Denver Ballet Theatre Academy at the age of 15, where he studied for two years. At age 17, he moved to New York City to study under Edward Ellison at Ellison Ballet. During his time in school, he performed many roles from the classical repertoire including Prince Seigfried from Swan Lake, Prince Desire from The Sleeping Beauty, Cavalier from The Nutcracker, among many other roles. Upon graduation in 2020, he began his career at the Junior Company of Dutch National Ballet in Amsterdam where he was able to enhance his contemporary skills and performed in ballets by Ted Brandsen and Hans van Manen. His favorite ballet is La Bayadère. This is Christopher’s first season with Colorado Ballet.
Generously supported by Alyson and Chris Graves
12 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Generously supported by Wendy Williams and Noel Kullavanijaya Alexander Roy
Alexander Roy is from Chicago, Illinois and received his training from the Chicago High School for the Arts. As a student he performed lead roles in ballets such as Sleeping Beauty and Paquita. In 2016 Alexander joined The Joffrey Academy of Dance as a Trainee on a full scholarship. While at Joffrey he performed soloist and ensemble roles in Swan Lake, Symphonic Variations and Napoli. In 2018 Alexander joined Atlanta Ballet as a Second Company member under the leadership of Gennadi Nedvigin and Sharon Story. In 2019 Alexander Joined Colorado Ballet as an Apprentice. During his first season with Colorado Ballet, Alexander had the pleasure of performing Demi-Soloist and Corps de Ballet roles such as Red Man in Lila York’s Celts, as well as Russian and Warrior in The Nutcracker. Alexander is a two-time Youth America Grand Prix finalist and has choreographed two of his own ballets. This is Alexander’s second season with Colorado Ballet.
Generously supported by Michael Bena Jeremy Studinski
Jeremy began his training at the age of nine at the Colorado Conservatory of Dance in Broomfield. He joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2012 for one season where he performed in ballets by Marius Petipa, George Balanchine, and Glen Tetley. He then went on to join Orlando Ballet II in 2013 and was promoted to their main Company in 2015. He rejoined Colorado Ballet as a Corps de Ballet member in 2017 and has enjoyed dancing notable roles for the company in productions like Dracula, The Nutcracker and Romeo and Juliet.
Generously supported by Rachel and Yuval Moskovich
DANCERS Sara Thomas Sara Thomas is originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She began her ballet training at the age of 12 with Metropolitan Ballet Academy. While in school, she was selected by Roy Kaiser to perform in Pennsylvania Ballet’s The Nutcracker as Spanish. Sara spent summers training with BalletX, Washington Ballet, and Atlanta Ballet. She joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company in 2012. Sara then danced with Nashville Ballet under the direction of Paul Vasterling for a few seasons. In 2015, she returned to Colorado Ballet and joined the Studio Company where she had the opportunity to perform some of her favorite ballets with the Company. Sara was promoted to the main Company as an Apprentice in 2017 and then the Corps de Ballet in 2019. In 2021, Sara choreographed an original piece, Embrace It or Erase It, on the Company.
Generously supported by Colleen Curran and Stephen Boane Alexandra Wilson
Alexandra Wilson was born and raised in Highlands Ranch, Colorado. She began training with the Colorado Ballet Academy at age 9, spending her summers training on scholarships across the nation. Alexandra competed in Youth America Grand Prix and was awarded First Place Classical in Denver leading her to the New York Finals. At age 16, Alexandra accepted an invitation to train full-time on scholarship with the Kirov Academy of Ballet. During her final semester with the Kirov Academy, Alexandra was selected by the artistic director of the Universal Ballet Company to travel to South Korea and perform in their full-length production of Swan Lake. Upon graduation, Alexandra returned to South Korea, joining the Corps de Ballet of the Universal Ballet for their 2016/2017 season. After returning to the states, she joined Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company and was promoted to Apprentice in the Company in 2019 and then to Corps de Ballet in 2020.
Generously supported by Michael Korenblat and Natalia Ballinger
APPRENTICES Catherine Aoki Catherine Aoki is from Los Angeles, California and began dancing ballet at age six. She started at a local ballet school in Ogden, Utah and went on to dance in the Professional Training Division at Ballet West. She also spent her summers training at notable schools such as the Royal Ballet School, San Francisco Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet and Atlanta Ballet. She participated in both the American Ballet Competition and the Youth American Grand Prix, winning numerous awards and scholarships. Catherine moved to Denver to begin training with Colorado Ballet Academy’s Pre-Professional Program under Erica Fischbach. She was then selected to join the Colorado Ballet Studio Company in 2018 and was promoted to Apprentice
in the company for the 2020 season. Since joining Colorado Ballet, she had the opportunity to perform in a variety of works including George Balanchine’s Serenade, Fernand Nault’s Carmina Burana and Michael Pink’s Peter Pan.
Generously supported by The Patrick Keleher Family Alexandra Gilliom
Alexandra Gilliom was born in Denver, Colorado. After moving to Costa Rica at the age of six, she started pursuing ballet more seriously at a small studio called Happy Feet. Her training here enabled her to gain acceptance into the Denver School of the Arts, so at the age of 11, she moved back to Denver to study both there and at the Colorado Ballet Academy. Throughout her time at Colorado Ballet Academy, she was able to perform in various academy productions as well as productions with the company including The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Alice in Wonderland, among others. Alexandra was also able to participate in the Denver Ballet Guild during her time with Colorado Ballet Academy where she finalized twice after training under Heather Prokhnitski. In 2019, after seven years at both the Denver School of the Arts and Colorado Ballet Academy, Alexandra was offered a studio company contract with the Colorado Ballet. As a member of Colorado Ballet’s Studio Company, she performed in various productions including Dryads and Fandango in Don Quixote and Corps de Ballet roles in The Nutcracker. In 2021, Alexandra was promoted to Apprentice.
Generously supported by Heather and Conor McCallin Sheridan Guerin
Sheridan Guerin was born in Ft. Worth, Texas and began her training at age 12. She trained under Lisa Slagle at Ballet Academy of Texas. She has attended American Ballet Theatre’s summer intensive in New York for four years in a row and was nominated to be their National Training Scholar for two years. She has competed at YAGP and has placed 1st overall in both contemporary and classical divisions. She has also had the opportunity to perform at YAGP New York as a finalist. In 2017 Sheridan was accepted as a Studio Company member at Oklahoma City Ballet where she had the opportunity to perform in ballets such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and The Little Mermaid. In 2018 Sheridan went on to join Atlanta Ballet’s school under the leadership of Sharon Story. At Atlanta Ballet she had the opportunity to perform in Yuri Possokhov’s world premiere of The Nutcracker. Sheridan was then hired as a Studio Company member for Colorado Ballet’s 2019/20 season and was then promoted to Apprentice in the main Company in 2020.
Generously supported by Christie and Joe Del-Ciotto
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 13
DANCERS Catherine McGregor
Jacob Ray
Catherine McGregor was born and raised in Jacksonville, Florida. She began her training at the age of five and trained in Jacksonville until the age of sixteen. During her training, Catherine spent many of her summers at notable schools, such as Houston Ballet, Orlando Ballet, American Ballet Theatre and The HARID Conservatory. In 2016 she was offered a scholarship to attend the HARID Conservatory year-round in Boca Raton, Florida. After graduating from the HARID Conservatory in 2018, she was offered a Studio Company position with the Colorado Ballet and was promoted to Apprentice for the 2020/2021 season. Since joining Colorado Ballet, Catherine has had the opportunity to perform in a variety of works including, George Balanchine’s Serenade in the Vail Dance Festival, Michael Pink’s Peter Pan and Fernand Nault’s Carmina Burana.
Jacob Ray was born in Irvine, California and moved to Michigan at an early age. He began his dance training at age eight, focusing primarily on ballet at the age 10 at the Grand Rapids Ballet Company under the artistic direction of Patricia Barker. There he was a member of the Grand Rapids Ballet Junior Company under the direction of Attila Mosolygo, performing in several productions with the company. After moving back to his hometown in California, Jacob began training at Dmitri Kulev Classical Ballet Academy under the artistic direction of Dmitri and Jennifer Kulev. In 2017, Jacob received a First Place Award in Men’s Senior Classical Ballet at Youth America Grand Prix regionals Los Angeles, where he went on to compete at finals in New York. Jacob also spent summers training at intensives such as American Ballet Theatre in Irvine and The Bolshoi Ballet Academy Summer Intensive in New York on full scholarship, receiving an invitation by academy teachers for full-time study at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy in Moscow. In 2018, Jacob also had the honor of being chosen as a ballet semi-finalist in the Los Angeles Music Center’s Spotlight Awards. In 2019, Jacob joined the Colorado Ballet Studio Company and was excited to be promoted to Apprentice in 2020.
Generously supported by Patty Lorie Patrick Mihm
Patrick Mihm was born in Dubuque, Iowa and began his training at the Dubuque City Youth Ballet at the age of 11 where he studied for three years. At the age of 14, he moved to southern Florida to begin his training at the HARID Conservatory. After staying at the school for two years, he decided to move to New York City to finish his training at Ellison Ballet. During his time in school he performed many roles from classical repertoire including Albrecht in Giselle, James in La Sylphide, Cavalier in The Nutcracker, as well as Basilio in Don Quixote. Upon graduation in 2020, he began his career with Colorado Ballet in the Studio Company. After one year in Studio Company, Patrick was promoted to Apprentice.
Generously supported by Janet and John MacFarlane
14 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Generously supported by Naji Ghorayeb
Gregory K. Gonzales, Guest Artist
GUEST ARTIST
Gregory Gonzales graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Sports Fitness/Kinesiology and Dance Minor. He was a dance scholarship recipient and Best Dancer Award winner while there. His teachers include: Larry Boyette, Dr. Sandra Minton, Karen Genoff-Campbell, James Clouser, Milenko Banovic, Jeanette Triomphe to name a few. Gregory has danced with several companies over the years, both ballet and modern. These include: The Dance Connection, David Taylor Dance Theater, Nevada Dance Theater, Ballet Arizona, WylliamsHenry Dance Theater, Opera Colorado, Ballet Pacifica, Kim Robards Dance, Les Ballet Grandiva, Zikr Dance Ensemble, Ballet Ariel and the Colorado Ballet. He spent the bulk of his career at Colorado Ballet where he was promoted to Principal Dancer in 1997. Gregory has had the opportunity to work with many leading choreographers both past and present such as Christopher Wheeldon, Stanton Welch, Milton Myers, Doug Varone and Toro Shimuzake and to dance in ballets ranging
from classical and romantic periods to Balanchine, Graham and contemporary works. Gregory also choreographs and was a Choreographer in Residence for the Colorado Ballet from 2003-2004. He created and/or collaborated on ballets such as Carmina Burana, Peter Pan, Broken Web, Incantation and Last Breath. He has choreographed for the University of Northern Colorado, The Dawson-Wallace Dance Project, Ballet Ariel, The Denver Independent Choreographer’s Dance Project, Denver School of the Arts, Presenting Denver Dance Festival, Engage Movement Arts, etc. Gregory was adjudicated and is a member of the Society of American Fight Directors and is recommended in rapier and dagger. He founded On Edge Productions with three other colleagues and created shows, both comedy and drama, that featured stage combat. Gregory currently dances with Colorado Ballet as a resident guest artist and with Ballet Ariel. He teaches ballet, character, acting for dancers and floor barre. He also teaches anatomy using the Anatomy In Clay® System to dancers and for Anatomy In Clay® Centers. He has played guitar and bandoneon for the Natural Tango Tipica Orquesta and studied Argentine Tango and has created and directed work for Tango Colorado and Parasol Arts. Gregory is a recipient of the Legends of Dance Award for 2019 from the Dance Archive University of Denver.
CHOREOGRAPHER Choreographer Derek Deane trained at the Royal Ballet School from 1970 to 1972 and was invited to join the professional company at age 18. He was promoted to soloist, principal and finally to senior principal dancer by 1982. He danced most of the major roles in the Royal Ballet’s classical repertoire and in works by the most important choreographers of the 20th century. He began choreographing during his performing career, creating ballets for the Royal Ballet, Sadler’s Wells Ballet and Birmingham Ballet. After retiring from the stage he worked independently as an international teacher and choreographer and, in 1990, became resident choreographer and assistant director at Ballet di Roma in Italy. Deane returned to England, and from 1993 to 2001 was artistic director of the English National Ballet (ENB). He premiered new productions of major classical works – Giselle, Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, Paquita, The Nutcracker – as well as his own original works. He pioneered ENB’s hugely successful “in the round” productions: His arena version of Swan Lake has been seen by over 750,000 people worldwide. His Alice in Wonderland, Swan Lake and Strictly
Gershwin were at the time the highest-earning productions in the company’s history and had record-breaking attendance. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire for Excellence in Dance in 2000. Since leaving English National Ballet Deane has choreographed ballets for Teatro La Scala Milan (Coppelia), Croatian National Ballet (The Nutcracker, The Lady of the Camellias, Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, Paquita), Teatro San Carlo Naples (Giselle, La Bayadere) Kobyashi Ballet Tokyo (Giselle) The Shanghai Ballet (Swan Lake, Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty), Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (A Hungry Heart, We All Have One!, Simply Simon, Anything goes, and also had them perform Alice in Wonderland. Deane created three world premieres for Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre: Hungry Heart, We All Have One! (2004), Simply Simon (2005) and Anything Goes! (2006). His work Hamlet had its world premiere at Shanghai Ballet in 2016. In 2018 Deane created The Lady of the Camellias for the Teatro San Carlo in Naples. The production was then transferred to the Shanghai Ballet in 2019. In January 2020, with huge success, Deane presented his version of Swan Lake with the Shanghai Ballet at the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center in New York.
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 15
COLORADO BALLET STUDIO COMPANY
From Left to Right: Lily Bines, Kyra Hughes, Leah White, EmmaRose Forbus, Lili Travaglia, Ali Walters, Timothy Ruelas, Gabriela Rodriguez, Vanessa Childress, Leopold Foster, Mylie Buck, Stefanee Montesantos, Roman Aldrete, Sonata Ross, Hannah Lesold, Ryan Nemmers, Claire Curran, Cate Jesser Not Pictured: Jacqueline Gionet and Fiona Hutchens.
Generously supported by David Andrews
COLORADO BALLET ORCHESTRA Adam Flatt, Music Director & Principal Conductor | Catherine Sailer, Associate Conductor First Violin Takanori Sugishita Concertmaster Robyn Sosa Chris Jusell Callie Brennan Lydia Sviatlovskaya Chris Menter Mari Karacsony Susie Peek
Cello Jeff Watson Principal Elle Wells Trevor Minton Erin Patterson
Second Violin Margaret Soper Gutierrez Principal Ben Tomkins Michelle Davis Stephanie Bork Phyllis Carlson Leslie Sawyer
Mandolin Leslie Sawyer Stephanie Bork Michelle Davis Chris Jusell
Viola Michael Brook Principal Stephanie Mientka Lora Stevens Aniel Cabán Viola D’Amore Michael Brook
Bass David Crowe Principal Jason Thompson Andy Holmes
Flute Paul Nagem Principal Elizabeth Sadilek Piccolo Olga Shilaeva Oboe Lauren Blackerby Principal Kathryn Dupuy Simpson English Horn Miriam Kapner
Clarinet Michelle Orman Principal Heidi Mendenhall
Trumpet John King Principal Michael Bucalo John Adler
Bass Clarinet Art Bouton
Cornet Derek McDonald Principal
Tenor Saxophone Art Bouton Bassoon Kaori Uno-Jack Principal J.J. Sechan Contra Bassoon Brian Jack Harp Pamela Eldridge Principal Piano and Celeste Catherine Sailer Principal Horn Matthew Scheffelman Principal Stuart Mock Lauren Varley Devon Park
Trombone Robert Olds Principal Jeff Craig Bass Trombone Andy Wolfe Tuba Jim Andrus Principal Timpani Mark Foster Principal Percussion Peter Cooper Principal Scott Higgins Carl Dixon
Colorado Ballet Orchestra members are represented by the Denver Musicians Association, Local 20-623 of the American Federation of Musicians.
16 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
SUPPORTERS As of January 7, 2022 (Includes 14 months of giving) LEADERSHIP CIRCLE $100,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Anonymous Bonfils-Stanton Foundation The Hearst Foundation PNC Bank Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD) Individual Donors Anonymous Raydean Acevedo Pam and Duke Hartman Sally Murray Dr. Barbara R. Reed* OVATION CIRCLE $50,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Colorado Creative Industries Genesee Mountain Foundation The Shubert Foundation, Inc. FOUNDERS CIRCLE $20,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Agencies The AMM Charitable Fund The Anschutz Foundation Armstrong Foundation Avenir Foundation Colorado Ballet Auxiliary Denver Ballet Guild The Denver Foundation MidFirst Bank Nichols Charitable Foundation Individual Donors David L. Andrews Liz and Bill Armstrong Holly Baroway and Erik Cederlund Christine L. Honnen Lisa Levin Appel Lynnette Morrison Jane and Gordon Netzorg Douglas Richards Cheri and Alan Rubin Brad and Rita Sonnenberg DIRECTOR CIRCLE $10,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Anna and John J. Sie Foundation Beacon Family Foundation Agency The Glyphis Family Charitable Fund Harmes C. Fishback Foundation Trust * Deceased
Virginia W. Hill Foundation The Kenneth King Foundation Margulf Foundation Marla and Dick Gentry Charitable Fund Mark and Bernee Strom Foundation National Endowment for the Arts Polsinelli Rea Charitable Foundation Records-Johnston Family Foundation, Inc Individual Donors Anonymous James and Marisa Aoki Jean and Hugh Armstrong Mr. David Bratten and Ms. Kimberly Bruetsch Heidi Marie Burose Merle C. Chambers Colleen Curran and Stephen Boane Kaye Ferry Susan Frawley Ann and Ford Frick Andi and John Fryer, Jr. Paul E. Goodspeed and Mary Poole* Chris and Alyson Graves Carl Hartman Noel and Terry Hefty Mr. and Mrs. Curt Hockemeier Elizabeth Katkin Waryn and Rich Waryn Michael Korenblat and Natalia Ballinger Merry and Steven D. Logan Tracy and Jim Millar Dr. Richard and Mrs. Jo Sanders Joanne Posner Mayer Denise and James Sanderson Jean and Dick Saunders Dr. David J. Scanavino Marlene Siegel Nancy and Thomas Stevens Susan and Stephen Struna Julie C. Van Camp CHOREOGRAPHER CIRCLE $5,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Bright Funds DCP Midstream Matching Gifts Program Mile High United Way Peggy Goldman Read Foundation RLC Foundation Scarlett Family Foundation Skratch Labs Susan Hymers Fund The Schramm Foundation
Twelve-Twenty-One Fund Individual Donors Anonymous Steven Backes Ellen Balaguer Melanie Kopperud and Brent Backes Jeffrey and Tammi Belden Michael Bena Mike and Pam Copp Larry Corff Jeffrey Costello and Olga Skorik Peggy and Steve Fabos Fred Fielder Marla and Richard Gentry David and Mary Mead Hammond Susan Diane Harmon Debby Herz Mary Anna and Sonny Hutchison Charissa and Nate Jones Stuart and Gail Kassan Diana and Michael Kinsey Mary Lou Blackledge Kortz Mr. Long and Ms. Acton Rachel and Yuval Moskovich Dr. Timothy Mottet and Mr. Rick Gonzalez Dr. Harold and Sarah Nelson Mark and Keira Norman Daniel and Pamela Piro The Ponzio Family Steve and Katie Prew Suzan and Gary Schlatter Steve and Myra Skinner Lisa and Bill Snider Dwinita and Tim Tyler Zachary Smith Katherine and Michael Whitcomb Mark Williams Wendy Williams Tania Zeigler and Kenneth Ho BALLET MISTRESS CIRCLE $2,500+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government Agencies Benevity Community Impact Fund The Cornelius N. Bliss Memorial Fund Microsoft Giving Campaign Robertson Family Foundation Robinson, Waters & O’Dorisio, PC Sherwin Willams Vail Valley Foundation Individual Donors Anonymous David Bayendor Ghislaine G Torres Bruner and March Edward Bruner
Joseph J. Bronesky and Jacquelin A. Medina Daniel and Aimee Sporer Caplis Leah Capritta Casey Carson Donald Cook Celia Dietrich James and Julia Eichenberger Stacy and Henry Fischer Yvette and Chris Frampton Dolan and Allie Marie Geiman Richard D and Julia Parrino George Sally C. Haas Jim Harvey Linda and Steve Heiss John and Meg Heller Jan and Gordon Holfelder The Patrick Keleher Family Kathy and Derek Konopka Mike Konrad Greg Laugero Marilyn and Jeffrey Litman James Lorenzend Michelle Moorman-Applegate Bonnie Perkins Mr. Bill Plummer Dr. Dean Prina Stefania B. Pruscino Katie Reid Mr. and Mrs. Mark Rinehart Ruth Schoening Cari and Mark Spiecker Lisa Strachan and Patrick Nicholson Maureen Tarrant Janet Tobin Jeff and Tiffany Tuell John Uppendahl and Travis Railey Margarert Woodhull and David Hildebrand Linda and Jimmy Yip PRINCIPAL CIRCLE $1,000+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government April Fund The Blackbaud Giving Fund The Caulkins Family Foundation Community First Foundation ConocoPhillips Dual Star Dance Academy Eisele Family Foundation The Hackstock Family Foundation The Herzberg Family Trust Hewlett Packard Enterprise Foundation Intelligent Investments, Inc The Jo Marie and George Dancik Charitable Fund
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 17
SUPPORTERS Joanne Carlin Memorial Fund Otten Johnson Robinston Neff & Ragonettie Charitable Foundation Individual Donors Anonymous Christina and Anthony Albanese Phyllis Albritton Sharleen Aoki Gary and Gail Armstrong David and Anna Asarch Steve and Susan Bailey Anees Bardini Lauren Beaver Andrea Beesley Ryan and Heather Beiser Kay Bell Ruth and Robert Beriault Scott Binder Steve Birchfield Sharon and Steven Birnbaum Hillary Biskner Meghan Blades Keri and Ken Blair Gil Boggs and Sandy Brown Katherine Borgen Gwendolyn Brewer Claudia Brown Jerry and Julie Buck Charlie and Cissie Busch Bruce and Kathy Butterfield Grace Campbell John and Marty Chamberlin Karen Chin Matthew and Kate Cihon Tom Cladis Scott and Alyssa Clarke Ann U. Collier Dr. and Mrs. Alan Como Donna and Ted Connolly Nick and Kallyn Connor Heidi Cooley Cami Cooper Peter and Amy Corrigan James and Karen Crossman Sara Curran JoMarie and George Dancik Carolyn E. Daniels Kaitlin Davis James Davis-Massey Christin Crampton Day John and Joanie Dee Cara and Scott Dessens Joy Dinsdale Erin and Matthew Dollarhide Lynn Bolinske Dolven Gretchen Edwards Alessandro Eichstaedt Patricia and Christopher Elliott Kevin Ellson Patrick and Nicole Evans Amanda Fein Melissa Fetzer Dr. and Mr. Rachel Finehout Max and Amy Fletcher Shayla Francis
Keo Frazier Grant Fritz Robert and Virgina Fuller Melissa and Mark Garland Pam and Barry Gatz Rebecca Givens William and Helen Gleason Karen Goodson Ned Grauel Mary Green John L. Hamil Jared and Megan Harbaugh Jeffrey and Kathleen Hartmann Janet Hehn Allison Herman Tahl Humes Vernon and Kaye Isaacs Howard Janzen Don and Arlene Johnson Dr. and Mrs. James Johnson Katie Johnson and Cary Weinstein Monica Jordan Nicholas Kemp Ms. Carol King Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Kirkpatrick Sharon Kirts Sarah and Dan Kozlowski Rich Kylberg and Jillian Parker Henny and Bert Lasley Patricia E. Laverty Catherine Lazar Ronald and Alysa Levine Craig Lewis Allen Lim Mr. Cong Lu and Ms. Laura McCormick Antoinette MacAluso and Donald Hagengruber John and Janet MacFarlane Elspeth MacHattie Sharon and Greg Maffei Margaretha Maloney and Robert Palaich Ashley Malsam John and Joanie Mankus Tatum McArthur Tracy McCarthy Leslie McCarty Steve and Kathy McConahey Margaret R. Jurado and V.W. McKnab Kris and Jay McMullan Dr. Josh and Ali Metzl Val and Meredith Milshtein Michelle Mize Regina and Marc Musyl Sharleen Nakaoka-Aoki Doug Nikaido Michelle Odorisio Gregory Olive Jamie Olson John and Patricia Orr Chaun and Erin Powell Anita Padilla-Fitzgerald Eric Liu and Eunice Park
18 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
Norman and Theresa Parker Susan and Dan Paulien Sue Pawlik Jake and Trisha Perlman Cason and Rachel Pierce Corbin and Whitney Popp Jim and Kathleen Potter Jeff and Judi Pring Andrew Quinlan Sue and Walt Rakowich Diane Rankin Lindsey Reifsnider Carolyn and John Riedlin Charlotte Revol and Heimata Rutgers Petra and Mark Richards Jeff Riggs Alex and Amy Ritchie Timothy Robertson Daniel and Jennifer Rohan Dennis Rodgers and Robert Gomez Daniel and Kelly Rosenberg Mr. and Mrs. Cory Ross Natalie Marika Ruh Barbara and James Ruh Joyce Rutledge Sarah Ryals Dan and Cheryl Ryan Becky and Brian Schaub Robert Schueller Servatius Family William Robert Sinclair Beverly & John Skinner Mr and Dr David and Nancy (Gill) Skuodas Jeffrey Smith Robert and Ann Stailey Dr. Carol A. Stamm Zachary Stassen Nina Casanova and Matthew Stenmark Harry and Vicki Sterling Susan Stiff Mark and Bernee Strom Sean and Melanie Tafaro Chris and Emily Taylor Kenneth Thomas Adrienne Toon Aubrey Tramontina Kacy and Patrick Vahey Stephanie Vara Jennie Virgilio Tiffany Walker Jennifer Walters David and Nadia Watts Daniel and Marie Welch Piers Wendlandt Piers Wendlandt Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Wheeler Brian and Marcy White Mr. and Mrs. William White Quentin and Marie White Jameson Jones and Malena Wiggin Marilyn Hodges Wilmerding Alexandra Wilson
Joe and Jacqueline Wilson Dr. Raymond and Mrs. Bernice Yost Linda and Eugene Young Paul and Anne Zeckser SOLOIST CIRCLE $500+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government CoBANK Individual Donors Anonymous Brian Abrams Baris Akdis Dr. Frank and Mrs. Celia Anderson Michael Aoki Yoshio Aoki Marcia and Rick Ashton Oksana Bantley Ruthie Barko Cynthia Baroway Marilyn Barrett Andrea Beesley Jessica Benjamin Amy Betts Beatriz Bonnet and Michael O’Connor Tyler Boon Kathy and Bjorn Borgen Brandon Bourque Daniel Bowles Ann & Bruce Brookens Blake Brown Janet Bruchmann Samantha Buck and Sarah Davis Liz Buckley David Burch Tim and Denise Burgett Troy and Lauren Butler Gene Child Karlton Childress Matthew and Michelle Chiodini Patricia Clark Ethel K. Clow Susan Cobb Toni Cohig Jeffrey and Treya Collins Allie Coppeak Marty and Howard Corren Anne and Jason Coughlin Stefanie Davies Jennifer Dechtman Dr. Pete and Lindsey Deol Meg Dixit and Joe Duer Margaret Dzwilewski James Eckhart Jonathan and Judith Weisiger Heidi Elliot Jann Engelstad Erika Enger Evan and Kristina Eschmeyer Stuart Fehr Dave and Candy Fik
SUPPORTERS Dr. Louis and Mrs. Victoria Howard Fine Bill and Paula Fitzgerald Mr. and Mrs. Adam Flatt Max and Amy Fletcher Stu and Barb Fonda Deborah Ford Erin Gallegos Michael Gerrity Dr. Rosalynn D Gill Ronald Gloekler Sara Glover Joseph Golden Danielle Good Andrea Griebe Eileen and Dennis Griffin Dr. Frederick and Mrs. Carol Grover Dr. Theresa Grover Babette Groves Bob and Mariellen Guerra Dr. Wendell and Mrs. Charlotte Hatfield Amanda Heersink Sandi Hewins Orville and Debra Hinerman Amanda Horvath Michael Inman Kyros Ipaktchi Stephanie Jaworski Maria Jennett Daren and Lori Johnson Robert Johnson McKenzie and Sean Jordan Margaret Torrans Kaluk Paul and Julie Kimura The Kispert Family Diana Knigge Ted Ko Donna Kornfeld Janet Kossman John Kure and Cheryl Solich Kristy LaGuardia Gary Landis Brina Larson Victoria Levine John Lewis Lance Little Keith Livo Drs. Charles and Gretchen Lobitz Natalie Mahler Tanya Maierhofer Paul Maldonado Lance Marx Kay Maune and David Elmore Theresa McGregor Kevin McLane and Michael Ragsdale Bill Meyer Linda Miller Mark Mitchell and Suzanne Gallie Danielle Mohn Britni Moritz Jeff and Peggy Morse Sean and Jocelyn Murphy
Michael Newman Richard Newton Lene Nichols Dougals and Jenny Nikaido Larry and Ruth Nisbet Noemi Nunez Esq Cindy and Terry Oakes Ann Obrzut Dr. Todd and Lyndsie Oldroyd Lisa Olson Gina Padilla Dr. Thomas Paluska Norm Parker Jimmy and Kingsley Parsely Dorothy Pedicord The Pedler Family Cleveland Piggott Debbie Queen Cyndy and Don Redifer Mark Reese and Martha Graves Reese Alexandra Rhodes Crystal Rieger Michael Ritchie Karen Ritz Paula and David Roney Jackie Rotole Daryl A. Russell Wendy Sanchez Andrea and Timothy Sayles Adam and Silvia Sexton Eileen Sharkey and James Darling Lynne Sirpolaidis Alex Slucky Mr. and Mrs. David Snyder Dr. Donna Souder Hodge Jack Sparks Erik Stattman Judith Steinberg Holly Stevens Jeffrey Stevens Debra Strong Karen Sumner Lynn Swanson Dana Tartar and Jeffrey Ruff Kathleen and Gordon Tucker Katie Turner Alberta Utech Dr. David Van Pelt Michael and Tami Wakeman Evelyn Waldron Linda Walmsley Eric Weisenstein Karen and Brian Wendling Lois K Williams John Patrick Wilson Christopher and Molly Wink Laura and Douglas Wright Yuliya and Henry Zabarsky JoAnne Zboyan Kathy and Jon Zeschin ARTIST CIRCLE $250+ Corporations, Foundations, and Government
Colorado Combined Campaign Amazonsmile Foundation Bardsley Foundation CoBANK Colorado Combined Campaign Halvorson-Freese 21st Century The Handler Family Charitable Fund Isenhart Charitable Fund The Lucy R. Steven Memorial Fund Network For Good The S Lundstrom Fund WPX Energy Inc Individual Donors Anonymous Cheryl Ackerman Susan Adams Anne Marie and Ryan Anderson Sofia Antal Catherine Aoki Lynda Aoki Jack and Martha Arrington Elaine Asarch Christie Austin Janice Babcock The Bachelder Lew Family Ms. Donna Baily Jennifer Bater Edie Beier Bell and John Beier Greg Berry John Berry Judith Bingenhemier Susan Bishop and John Strombeck Dr. Linda Bluestein MD Matt and Allison Boone Karen Bossaller Karen Boyd Malinda Bray Stacie and Greg Brown Kenneth Bunch Bethany Burton Diane Butler Kiel Butterfield and Jason Malin Ian and Lindsay Campbell Kathryn Campbell Carol and Alan Caniglia Bradley Cardon Karen Carrigan Debbie Carter and Diane Strong Carl and Gretchen Cerveny Ralph Adam Chapuis Tim and Abby Chavez Sandra Christiansen Nicholas Clements Deborah Clendenning Kathleen Clifton Holly Coffee Lynn and Andrew Coit
Liz Coolman Emily and Joe Daniels Gary Darfler Dr. Deborah Davis-Merritt Kathy Day Colin Deihl Christie and Joe Del Ciotto Kevin Delaney and Angie Peluse Chris DeMarche Katherine Douglas Lizabeth Duckworth David Dusing Michael Eaton Angela Enyeart Carrie Ermler Renee Estelle Joe Ewaskowitz Hugh Fagan Marilyn Faye Joan and John Feek Steve Fincher Erica Fischbach and Mark Hutchins Joel Fleet Gregory and Francine Floerke Kevin and Elizabeth Fraker Linda and Norbert Frueh Kristin Gearhart Ryan Godsil and Michelle Kent Adam Goldstone Melissa Goslee Reva Greenburg Mary Groote Steven and Patricia Gulevich Marcia Hafemeister in name of Whitney Schaub Julie Haffner Melissa Haniewicz Marcia Hannum Chris Hansen Michelle Harline Kristi and Todd Helvig Elizabeth Hewes Allison and Corey Hicks Karen Hirko Wendy Hodges Susan and David Hoffman Gail Ida Kathryn Johnson Paul and Kathleen Johnson Jen and Matt Kahler Charlot Karesh Rin Karns Natalie Kelce Cynthia Kelly Dr. and Mrs. Richard Kem MD Heidi and Randy Keogh Fund Nancy Kimball Alicia and Eric Kintner Darcy Kirkland Chris Klein Katherine Kline Joshua Koubek Kelley Kovar Julie Kronbach
Colorado Ballet • Romeo and Juliet 19
SUPPORTERS James Kunze Patricia LaVesser and Mark Johnston Patricia Lee William Lefeber Heather LeMay Allie Liebgott Aaron and Olivia Lucas Laurent Lyons Karly Makovy Frank Mango Heather and Conor McCallin Carolyn McCowan Tracy McKenna Stephen Metz Adam Moskowitz Marina Mukhina Ms. Neva L. Murphy Dennis and Liz Myers Kendra Nachtrieb Ron and Judie Neel Miranda Nelson Grant and Melissa Netzorg Dr. Cassandra Olenick Andi Oliveria Kelsey Olson Rupert and Claire O’Neal Elizabeth Otte Ashley Padgett Amy and Jeff Parsons Janet Pasterkamp Lilian Peeters Nathaniel Phillips Julia Porterfield Tristan Powers Dr. Snahel Prajapati Katie Prew Morris Price James and Danielle Pyeatte
Natalie and Toby Ralston Cathy Richards Paul Rogers Gordon Rogier Louise Rouse Ann and Mike Rowse Aurora Ruiz-Hernandez and Elmer Hernandez Don and Jennifer Samuels Jan Satterfield Heather Schaefer Thomas Scripps Bill Silberstein Holly Simpson Lynne Sirpolaidis John Sisson Joan Slaughter Pam Sletten Anne Slucky Kyle Spies Janis Stephenson Douglas Stout The Strain Family Arthur and Stephanie Strasburger Kenneth Thibodeau Barbara Thorngren The Tonsmeire Family Martha Tracey Lauren Urich Lois Vaccariello Sondra Vernon Thomas Viola Randy and Patricia Wambsganss Melissa Wasgatt Ben Carver & Rebecca Weber Kelsey Webster
20 Romeo and Juliet • Colorado Ballet
John Wendorf Nolan Wessell Jeff Wheeler Stephen and Debra Whitman Mark Wilkins Bernard Williams Dr. and Mrs. James Wilson John Patrick Wilson Michael Woitach Sandy Zdunich Kevin and Whitney Zimmerman GIFTS IN KIND $10,000+ John Antencio $5,000+ Liz and Bill Armstrong Cableland Colorado Ballet Auxiliary The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa $2,500+ Dolan Geiman Paper Collage Imhoff Fine Residential Painting Mark Hutchens Photography Mark Schneider Steve and Myra Skinner Sharon and Lanny Martin Workplace Elements Furniture Youval Moskovich $1,000+ High Noon Entertainment Ken Elliott
Le Meridien Denver The Broadmoor Resort The Sherwin-Williams Company $500+ Comedy Works Curt and Nancy Hockemeier Denver Marriott Tech Center Dillard’s Park Meadows Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center James Eckhart, Microsoft The Denver Zoo Michael Korenblat and Natalia Ballinger Tristan Campbel-Powers Interiors Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa Avon $250+ Allie Coppeak Cheyenne Mountain Resort Escape Works Denver Holly Baroway and Erik Cederlund Lone Tree Arts Center Opera Colorado Renaissance Denver Downtown City Center Sage Hospitality Group The Family Jones The Jacquard Hotel and Rooftop The Westin Denver Downtown Hotel
Presented by
midfir st bank
T HE W I ZAR D OF OZ M A R C H 1 1 - 2 0 , 2 02 2
A whirlwind of adventure lands in Denver this March–Septime Webre’s whimsical rendition of The Wizard of Oz returns to the Ellie Caulkins Opera House for the first time since its world premiere to sold out audiences in 2019! Commissioned by Colorado Ballet, Kansas City Ballet and Royal Winnipeg Ballet, The Wizard of Oz is a magical testament to innovation and collaboration in 21st century dance, complete with flying monkeys, swirling tornadoes and Wicked Witches. Experience the wonder of Oz when you join Colorado Ballet on a thrilling journey to the Emerald City, featuring all your favorite characters from L. Frank Baum’s cherished story. Athletic choreography and live music merge with immersive special effects, puppetry and a gravity-defying fly system to bring this unforgettable production to awe-inspiring life. Secure your tickets to The Wizard of Oz before it blows away–you don’t want to miss experiencing this oncein-a-lifetime event from the best available seats with your friends, family, or munchkins.
Dana Benton by Mike Watson
Artists of Colorado Ballet by Mike Watson
Nicolas Pelletier and Artists of Colorado Ballet by Mike Watson
Colorado Ballet Education & Community Engagement
EVERY. BODY. DANCE. Providing high quality educational opportunities for preschool through adults, the Colorado Ballet Education & Community Engagement Department has been engaging with the Colorado community for over 20 years. A fundamental philosophy of Colorado Ballet is to make dance accessible to everyone and inclusive of all.
Sponsor a program today!
$100 - Provides one dance workshop for a school or organization $500 - Brings an assembly program to a school $1,000 - Covers the cost of one afterschool dance program
For more information
COLORADOBALLET.ORG/ABOUT-EDUCATION
NASHVILLE BALLET WITH RHIANNON GIDDENS MAR 29 & 30 Poetry by Caroline Randall Williams
Music composed and performed by Rhiannon Giddens and Francesco Turrisi
newmancenterpresents.com 303-871-7720 Colorado Ballet 15
COLORADO BALLET ACADEMY REPERTOIRE WORKSHOPS EN R O L L . T R A I N. G R O W . P E R F O R M .
Colorado Ballet Company Dancer, Alexander Roy, with CBA Student by Mark Hutchens
THE WIZARD OF OZ SUNDAY, MARCH 6, 2022 10:00AM-2:00PM
Instruction by Sandra Brown & Alexander Roy
BALLET MASTERWORKS SUNDAY, MARCH 27, 2022 10:00AM-2:00PM
Instruction by Dana Benton & Ariel McCarty
For more information COLORADOBALLET.ORG/REPERTOIRE-WORKSHOPS
COLORADO BALLET ACADEMY PRE-PROFESSIONAL DIVISION AUDITION IN-PERSON AND VIRTUALLY THROUGH MARCH 31.
CBA Students by Mark Hutchens
Qualified PPD students have first priority for available Studio Company contracts.
For more information: COLORADOBALLET.ORG/PRE-PROFESSIONAL-DIVISION
16 Colorado Ballet
COLORADO BALLET ACADEMY 2022 SUMMER INTENSIVE EXPAND YO UR VE R S ATIL IT Y Ages 11-20; En Pointe June 13 - July 16
CBA Students by Mark Hutchens
Audition in-person and virutally through March 31.
For more information COLORADOBALLET.ORG/SUMMER-INTENSIVE
COLORADO BALLET ACADEMY 2022 YOUNG DANCER WORKSHOP Boys and Girls Ages 9-12; Not Yet En Pointe June and July 2022
CBA Students by Mark Hutchens
Audition in-person and virutally through March 31.
For more information COLORADOBALLET.ORG/YOUNG-DANCER-WORKSHOP
Colorado Ballet 17
Celebrating
A
20
years with
Dana Benton
s the new year unfolds, Colorado Ballet celebrates many wonderful achievements –60 years +1 of innovation and tradition in dance, a return to live performances at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House after almost two years, the premiere of highly anticipated, new Nutcracker sets and costumes, successfully navigating the unprecedented challenges of a pandemic… But there’s one more incredible accomplishment on which the spotlight must shine in 2022. This year, Principal Dancer Dana Benton celebrates her 20th season, plus one, with Colorado Ballet. Colorado audiences have come to know and love Dana throughout her time with the Company. Her precise ballet technique, refined artistry and elegant presence are evident from the moment she steps onto the stage. In both classical and contemporary roles, Dana demonstrates masterful command of the art form and dances with a heartfelt joy that fills the whole theater. Her passion for ballet began early, when she was a child living in Ontario, Canada. “When I was eight, my parents took me to see a performance by the National Ballet School in Toronto. Afterwards, the artistic director spoke about the school and what it would entail to become a student there,” she recalls. “I was on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t believe what I was hearing–there was a place where I could do ballet all the time!?”
Dana Benton & Yosvani Ramos in The Sleeping Beauty by Mike Watson
Dana Benton & Francisco Estevez in Petite Mort by Mike Watson
18 Colorado Ballet
Dana’s unshakeable drive and love for dance empowered her to pursue her dreams of becoming a ballerina, even when faced with adversity. Her first audition for the National Ballet School in Toronto, for instance, was right after a successful surgery to repair her pulmonary valve. “I was determined,” says Dana, “and I was accepted into their summer school.” Summer school turned into year-round training, followed by an apprenticeship with Alberta Ballet. “As a student, I struggled with feeling comfortable performing, or acting, on stage. In my mind, embracing my artistry meant letting go of my form. I had to learn that I could be technical while also letting go. It was a journey, but I got there,” she explains. “I was also told upon graduating from ballet school that my height would make it difficult to find a job —I’m 5’1”. But I wasn’t ready to give up on my dream, so I sent audition tapes everywhere.”
It worked. Dana was offered a position as a member of the Corps de Ballet by former Colorado Ballet Artistic Director Martin Fredmann. In 2007, Artistic Director Gil Boggs promoted Dana to Soloist and then to Principal in 2014. “I couldn’t believe it,” she recalls of her promotion to Principal. “I think I screamed and then started crying. It’s a moment that all dancers dream of —when all the hard work, dedication, stubbornness, ups, downs, blood, sweat and tears pays off. It’s surreal.”
Dana Benton by Andrea Flanagan
Dana Benton in Don Quixote by Francisco Estevez
During her career with Colorado Ballet, Dana has worked with world-renowned repetiteurs and choreographers, and has performed in numerous leading roles, most recently as Giselle in Giselle, Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker, Kitri in Don Quixote and Princess Aurora in The Sleeping Beauty. She also participated in the creation of contemporary works premiered by the Company, including Amy Seiwert’s Traveling Alone, in which she performed the lead role and was recognized by Pointe Magazine as one of the twelve “standout performances” of 2015. This year, she makes her debut as Juliet in Derek Deane’s extraordinary and demanding ballet Romeo and Juliet. “Celebrating my 20th season +1 is an accomplishment that I am so proud to achieve right now in my career. I would not have been able to make it this far without the endless love and support from a ton of people,” says Dana. “My family, abroad in Canada and here in the United States; my dance partners over the years, supportive colleagues, beloved friends and physical therapists; the artistic staff at Colorado Ballet—Gil, Sandy, Lorita and Maria; and my husband, Adam, and two children, Poppy and Felix, who give me life, inspire me and motivate me every day. Thank you. I love you all.” Congratulations, Dana. We are so proud of you.
Dana Benton & Family
Colorado Ballet 19
The Nutcracker Campaign
We gratefully acknowledge our lead donors who supported new sets and costumes for our beloved production of The Nutcracker: Party Scene
Land of Snow
Sandy Elliott
Liz and Bill Armstrong
Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy Mary Ellen and David Wright
Clara
Nutcracker Prince
Sugarplum Fairy
Anne and Jim Hillary
Julie C. Van Kamp
Duke and Pam Hartman
Sugarplum Fairy’s Cavalier
Dewdrop
Lynnette Morrison
Lisa Levin Appel
Party boys and girls Colorado Ballet Auxiliary
Flowers Sally Murray
Mice Holly Baroway and Erik Cederlund
Columbine Doll Backstage Barre
Mother Ginger and Polichinelles Jean and Hugh Armstrong
Grandfather Clock Colleen Curran and Stephen Boane Sleigh Jane and Skip Netzorg
Nutcracker Doll Alyson and Chris Graves
Snow Denise and Jim Sanderson
Clara’s and Prince’s Throne Joanne Posner Mayer Arabian Carriage Brent and Melanie Backes Chinese Dragon Marlene Siegel
Christmas Tree Denver Ballet Guild
The Chiropractor for COLORADO BALLET
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF THE BALLET
If we can help them, imagine what we can do for you. massage + orthotics also available
303.504.4800 www.shapirochiro.com
20 Colorado Ballet
Dana Benton by Kendra Harris
COLORADOBALLET.ORG/BACKSTAGE-BARRE
SE Denver location: 2121 S. Oneida St. Suite 420 Denver, CO 80224
New Highlands location coming soon to NW Denver!
Ailey II Feb. 16, 2022 Macky Auditorium
Tickets start at $24 at cupresents.org
Is the person in seat D3
your next client? Just look around. Your ticket to successful advertising is one call away.
303.428.9529 sales@pub-house.com ColoradoArtsPubs.com Colorado Ballet 21
STAFF DIRECTORY ARTISTIC DIRECTOR Gil Boggs
Grants Manager Tricia Schmuki
PATRON SERVICES AND DATABASE
MANAGING DIRECTOR
ARTISTIC
ACADEMY
Assistant to the Artistic Director/Ballet Master Sandra Brown
Director of Patron Services and DBA Michelle Herring
Mark Chase
Academy Director Erica Fischbach
Ballet Masters Lorita Travaglia Maria Mosina
Academy Principal Domenico Luciano Academy Business, Pre-Professional Divison & Summer Programs Administrator Michael Williams
Music Director & Principal Conductor Adam Flatt Associate Conductor Catherine Sailer
Academy Administrator Lindsay Falter
Company Pianist Natalia Arefieva
Lower Division Coordinator Erika Sandre
EDUCATION & COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Academy Wardrobe Manager Jennifer Aiken
Director of Education & Community Engagement Emily Herrin
Academy Administrative Assistant Angela Ndreca
Manager of Education & Community Engagement Cassie Wilson
Visit coloradoballet.org to see all teaching staff
Education & Community Engagement Coordinator Katherine Reller
ADMINISTRATIVE Director of Accounting Janina Falik Staff Accountant Stephanie Kautz Accounting Associate Katrina Pulice Boutique Manager Edie Bell
Visit coloradoballet.org to see all teaching staff
MARKETING & PUBLIC RELATIONS Director of Marketing & Communications Rachel Perez Marketing & Communications Associate Melissa Longiaru
ADVANCEMENT Director of Advancement Karen Sumner
Marketing & Graphic Design Associate Chris Hernandez
Senior Director of Development Ashley Harkrader Senior Philanthropy Officer Allie Coppeak
Videographer Taylor Keating
Assistant Database Administrator Ashley Kohl Adler Patron Services Representatives Rosa Gasdia Hannah Rosenfield
PRODUCTION Production Consultant James Whitehill Production Stage Manager Hally Albers Assistant Stage Manager Tara Tolar-Payne Company Manager Natalie Kelce Production & Advancement Coordinator Kristina Sablatura Wardrobe & Shoe Manager & Costume Designer Shirin Lankarani Master Carpenter Michael Duran Assistant Carpenter/ Head Flyman Travis Schadle
Master Carpenter Emeritus David Jackson Property Master Emeritus David Jaramillo Company Physical Therapist Mieke Braun Scripps MPT, DPT Assistant Physical Therapist Sarah Graham, MSPT Company Orthopedist Joshua Metzl, MD Massage Therapist Stephen Jacoby, LMT Acupuncturist Lorita Travaglia, L.Ac, Dipl. CHM Chiropractor Dr. David S. Shapiro Company Photographers Rachel Neville Mike Watson Company Videographer David Andrews Orchestra Personnel Manager Steve Simpson Orchestra Librarian Eleanor Wells Wardrobe Assistants Melissa Van Tassel Katherine Scoggins
Master Electrician Susan Osborne
Dressers Jessica Sotwick Emily Mastalerz Sarah Hunsinger Maria Hajiaghaee Rebecca Travers
Property Master Kathryn Maleva
Wig Mistress Megan O’Connor
Technical Director & Production Manager Emeritus Pete Nielson
Wardrobe Volunteers Rosemary Ellis Kirsten Riegler
Lighting Director Patrick “Red” Howard
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OUR STATE, YOUR SYMPHONY Find all events at coloradosymphony.org
An Evening with Leslie Odom, Jr. and your Colorado Symphony APR 2 SAT 7:30 PRESENTING SPONSOR
P R O U D LY S U P P O R T E D B Y
Colorado Ballet 23
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