Kelowna Ballet Society

The Kelowna Ballet Society, also known as Ballet Kelowna, is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting dance and supporting Canadian dance artists. It was founded in 2002 and has been led by Artistic Director and CEO Simone Orlando since 2014.

Mission

Ballet Kelowna's mission is to deliver compelling and inspiring performances to regional, national, and international audiences. The organization aims to support and promote the innovation and creativity of Canadian dance artists. Additionally, it strives to create a nurturing environment where artists can realize the fullest extent of their talents and potential.

Vision

The vision of Ballet Kelowna is to establish dance as a fundamental part of Canada's cultural identity.

Activities

As the only professional dance company in British Columbia's Interior, Ballet Kelowna plays a vital role in promoting and developing Canadian dancers and choreographers. The company presents a variety of dance styles, including works from Canada's finest emerging and established choreographers. It combines the precision and athleticism of ballet technique with contemporary elements to create engaging original works.

Ballet Kelowna performs for over 12,000 audience members annually, both in Kelowna and on tour. The organization also provides unique dance training opportunities and outreach programs, contributing significantly to the arts education in the region.

Legal Status

The Kelowna Ballet Society is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and is designated as an organization for the advancement of education in the arts. This status allows it to issue official receipts for income tax purposes for eligible donations.

Performance and Outreach

The company's repertoire includes contemporary ballet programs such as the MAMBO and Other Works series, featuring choreographers like Cameron Fraser-Monroe, Guillaume Côté, and Alysa Pires. Ballet Kelowna's performances reflect the intense physicality and trust among dancers, with a deep passion for dance evident in their work.

Support and Funding

Ballet Kelowna relies on donations and community support to continue its artistic endeavors. While ticket sales contribute to its operations, additional funding is necessary to maintain its programs and artistic vision. Supporters can contribute to the organization's initiatives through various donation channels, including joining exclusive donor programs like The Creators' Circle for significant annual contributions.