Constance Hardinge
Seventy years of dancing, 70 years of performances, 70 years of bringing the joy (the pain, the sadness, the romance, the beauty) of ballet to Bristol - Bristol Ballet is celebrating its 70thanniversary season. The celebration continues through June 2018.
Founded in 1948 by the late Constance Hardinge, Bristol Ballet began as The Constance Hardinge School of Ballet.A performing company was created in 1959 under the name The Bristol Concert Ballet Company.Reflecting upon Bristol Ballet's 70thAnniversary, Michele Plescia, artistic director said, "I have fond memories dancing as a child and young adult at Bristol Ballet. Upon returning as artistic director in the 56thseason, I felt honored to be trusted with the development and sustainment of this storied institution.While 70 seasons of dancing is an astounding accomplishment, I am most excited to look toward the ballet's future in Bristol.It is my hope to keep Ms. Hardinge's vision alive for many years to come."
To kick off the season,Bristol Ballet holds registration and open house at the Bristol Ballet Studios on the following dates: Saturday, July 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., July 31 from 5-7 p.m., Aug. 3 from 5-7 p.m., and Aug. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The 70thseason continues the tradition of producing high-quality and entertaining performances such as "The Nutcracker," the 70thAnniversary Gala Production in spring 2018 and "Alice in Wonderland" in May 2018.
In an effort to sustain and grow Bristol Ballet, the$70 for 70campaign continues throughout the season."Bristol Ballet gave me so much as a young adult; the value of hard work, friendships, determination, follow through ... $70 is just a small way to support this invaluable arts organization," said Bristol Ballet alum Joey Jackson, "I make my $70 pledge in honor of my memories with Bristol Ballet, and in anticipation of all the fond memories current and future students will make." Donations are accepted at the Bristol Ballet studios or throughwww.bristolballet.org.
The ballet is currently seeking alumni/alumnae and favorite memories from dancers, board members, and patrons. Do you have a story to share? Reach out to Bristol Ballet via phone, email, or visitwww.bristolballet.org.
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