Artist Relief Fund, a non-profit organization that works to provide financial support to the dancers at Ballet Arizona, will present its 10th annual fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m.
For its 10th anniversary, Ballet Arizona’s Dorrance Theatre will come to life with a performance staged entirely by the dancers of Ballet Arizona. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with the dancers over refreshments, listen to a jazz quartet and enjoy delicious desserts.
The event will feature pieces performed by current Ballet Arizona dancers, from previous years to celebrate the 10-year anniversary. All of the original works were choreographed by Ballet Arizona dancers and are a mixture of classical and contemporary styles. One of the pieces will feature live accompaniment by current company dancers Atsunari Matsuyama and Eastlyn Jensen.
Following the performance, there will be a reception where audience members can mingle with the dancers of Ballet Arizona, share a toast to 10 great years of the Artist Relief Fund, and look to the future. Attendees can also participate in a raffle and silent auction, where all proceeds will directly support the dancers of Ballet Arizona.
The Artist Relief Fund was created in 2013 by former Ballet Arizona dancers Kenna Draxton and Joseph Cavanaugh to assist dancers financially during times of injury, personal hard-ships and career transitions.
Since 2013, the Artist Relief Fund has raised over $100,000 for dancer’s school and financial emergencies, offered opportunities for young artists to choreograph for a professional company, and presented more than 30 world premieres. During 2019, this fund expanded its assistance to include physical and mental health maintenance for the dancers.
“The Artist Relief Fund is an incredible organization that I am proud to be a part of,” said Alison Remmers, secretary of the Artist Relief Fund Board. “It recognizes the needs of my fellow dancers outside of our professional careers and every amount donated works to support dancers at Ballet Arizona as they navigate unexpected and sometimes challenging financial situations. We are really excited to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of Artist Relief Fund and all of the assistance that we've been able to provide over the years."
For more information on the Artist Relief Fund performance, visit arfundaz.org.
