Supporting generations of dancers

DANCERS AT the American Ballet Theatre

William J. Gillespie School at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, who range in age from 3 to 18, are nothing if not dedicated. Upper Level pre-professional students take as many as four hours of class a day, six days a week. Even the tiniest dancers are eager to follow their teacher’s lead in the studio. But the cost of class tuition can be a substantial obstacle for some students who aspire to do a grand jeté across a real theater stage.

This is where the Pas de Deux Chapter of The Guilds of the Center comes in: The members are passionate about dance and the ABT Gillespie School. The chapter’s goals include raising scholarship funds for students as well as increasing public awareness and support for the school and its students. Without this assistance there would be young dancers who could not afford to attend. It also helps fund essential projects at the school, including special opportunities that enhance the students’ education such as master classes, guest artist classes and lectures, and costumes for performances.

The chapter is not only for parents and grandparents of students at the school but also ballet enthusiasts who want to help raise money and plan special events that generate funds and recognition for the school.

Every year, Pas de Deux members, donors, and guests are invited to attend Evening of Dance, an event that showcases the top levels of the school. This year it will be held on April 29 in the Judy Morr Theater. It’s a nice opportunity to mingle and meet other school supporters and see some of the students perform. Attendees will hear from ABT school leadership and students, and our scholarship students also have an opportunity to shine and show their passion for dance.

The highlight is a beautiful production of dance pieces by the Upper Level pre-professional students that demonstrate their training. This is not just another recital. Guests can see for themselves the passion and talent these dancers bring to their art, and the importance of support to help continue to their dreams.

A membership in Pas de Deux includes many special privileges aimed at the ballet fan, such as exclusive access to observe select dress rehearsals of the professional touring companies that visit the Center and special members-only masterclasses and discussions. New members are always welcome! For more information, contact ocpasdedeux@gmail.com.