Houston Ballet Foundation

My love for Houston Ballet Academy began when I was a young girl attending HBA. I always dreamed that one day I would have a child who shared my passion for ballet. Now, as an HBA parent, I am incredibly grateful that my daughter has the opportunity to study ballet here. HBA not only provides exceptional ballet instruction, but also fosters personal growth, helping the students develop both as dancers and as individuals.

I love the Houston Ballet! I have attended numerous performances and have never had a bad experience. The talent and passion that goes into their shows is impossible to miss.

I saw Mayerling with some friends recently and I was wow-ed. It was my first ballet experience but certainly won’t be my last. Can’t wait to see the Nutcracker!

Recently saw Mayerling and wow! Cannot express how great this show was! The dancing, the music, the set- it was all spectacular!

My experience with Houston Ballet began as a young girl awed by a performance of The Nutcracker under Ben Stevenson's artistic direction. As a native Houstonian, my love of ballet has continued to grow because of Houston Ballet's fantastic, diverse and continually expanding repertoire performed by gifted dancers always pushing the envelope of what can be done. Now, as an Academy parent, I have the privilege of seeing how the skills of these dancers develop under the tireless devotion of the Academy staff. Their love of the art, dedication to sharing it with young dancers from unique and varying socioeconomic backgrounds, and encouragement to continually grow as a dancer is the foundation of this cherished, iconic Houston institution.

I am a teacher and I brought the Orchestra and Dance children to the Houston Ballet for free to see an educational outreach program offered on Benjamin Britten's Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra. The choreography and story-telling was breath-taking. My campus is 80% minority and economically disadvantaged. None of the children come from families who can afford to go see Ballet or the Symphony play! They are learning disciplines and not able to "see the whole picture." Through the kindness of the Houston Ballet, my students left completely inspired!

The professionalism and artistry of the Houston Ballet dancers is among the best in the United States.

Houston Ballet is a huge part of why I love Houston. It's a world class company, and these talented dancers truly rival some of the best in ballet today. These dancers are not only technically gifted, but also have tremendous capacity to execute a wide range of repertory, from the classics to the more avant-garde, modern pieces. There's a reason why all the top choreographers want to work with Houston Ballet. This coupled with the creative genius of Stanton Welch and leadership and coaching of Julie Kent has brought the Company to new heights. The organization is also so well run, from top to bottom, thanks to Jim Nelson and his outstanding team.

The Houston Ballet is one of my favorite “Houston” things to experience. My family enjoys attending the Nutcracker every year along with various shows throughout the year. My husband and I have attended Raising the Barre in the past and absolutely loved being a part of it. Houston is a city where community is truly at the heart what makes the city so special and The Houston Ballet Foundation contributes to this sense of community in so many ways. Love this organization!

The Houston Ballet is truly exceptional! Their dedication to fostering the arts and supporting the community is unmatched. The performances are breathtaking, showcasing top-tier talent and stunning choreography. Their outreach programs make a meaningful impact, enriching lives through the beauty of ballet. Highly recommended for anyone who loves the arts and wants to support a great cause. Five stars!

Houston Ballet is an all-star nonprofit which adds diversity and inclusion to our Houston community with excellent performances and community service.

Houston Ballet is an integral and stellar part of the Houston Arts community. Premier dancers and leadership, heart-warming and life-changing education in our local schools and beyond; all making Houston Ballet an international star in ballet companies.

Houston is so fortunate to have such elite dancers and a visionary artistic team - some of the best in the world. The performances are mesmerizing! The community programs engage tens of thousands in dance and movement each year. There's so much to love about Houston Ballet.

I love the programmatic direction Houston Ballet is taking, such as commissioning works by BIPOC and women choreographers and giving space for company dancers’ choreographic work to be included in the overall programmatic season. Also, the Academy is making great strides in creating equity, such as life changing opportunities through the Chance to Dance program and establishing scholarship funds - making dance accessible for all. It’s an exciting chapter for the organization!

Houston Ballet is an organization that is devoted to expanding the reach of ballet throughout the greater Houston community. The education programming for young students around Houston and within the Houston Ballet Academy is very possibly some of the best in the county. It is clear that the leadership in the academy is devoted to high standards of education and genuine care for each student. Houston Ballet is an excellent organization that benefits the Houston community in more ways than one!

I love going to the Houston Ballet! Every time I go I have such a great experience and the performers are so talented!

Houston Ballet is top of its field, it delivers excellent artistry and is one of the core pillars that makes Houston an arts destination. I’ve enjoyed every performance I’ve seen so far, Sylvia was especially magnificent. The Nutcracker is a community staple. Their Academy program is such a wonderful opportunity for young kids to be exposed to making art. Bravo!

My daughter and I took a parent and me dance class together and we had a fantastic experience. The instructor was very engaged with the kids and the parents, kept the class entertaining, the facility was beautiful and we loved that there was a live pianist. We will definitely seek out other options at the Houston Ballet!

Love going to see the Houston ballet! Wonderful performances from the talented dancers to the beautiful costumes, etc.

One of the best ballet companies in the country! I've been a season ticket holder for decades and a board member for several years. I can't recommend it highly enough.

I volunteer for Houston Ballet and am honored to support such an inclusive organization that brings this beautiful art form to so many in our community. The multitude of programs available in addition to full scale performances is so inspiring.

I work in Education and Community Engagement at Houston Ballet and it is such an honor to be a part of the work HB is doing in the local schools and in the community. Dance and the arts in general should be accessible to all, and I believe HB strives to do that in all their excellent work.

What a world class organization. Everything they do is top rated. I couldn’t be more proud to be associated with this tremendous group.

I volunteer with this organization because their educational outreach in the community. They introduce children to performing arts through performances at the studio and the Wortham’s Brown stage.

They support the Houston Ballet who continues to provide world-class performances every time the curtain is raised!

Houston Ballet and the guild that support the ballet provide me the opportunity to volunteer and make a difference in an area dear to me while at the same time learn more about my own capabilities and volunteer with a great community of women (and men) who support each other.

Houston Ballet consistently delivers world class performances and education and is one of the top cultural organizations in Houston.

We have a lovely ballet company that brings a tremendous amount of joy to our community through the art of dance, music, education, and various outreach programs.
I have been a volunteer for the past 20 years because I believe in the mission and beauty of the Houston Ballet!

We have been season ticket holders for a number of years. The productions are innovative, true to the ballet culture, and always produced with the greatest attention to detail.

The Houston Ballet Foundation continues to support the dancers, the artist directors, and most importantly - the students and rising stars! Without this training ground the Houston Ballet might not be able to continue at the same quality we have become used to over the years. We are growing our own dancers with the same goals, qualities, and expectations which are needed to carry on our traditions!

Being a volunteer for the Houston Ballet for the past 20+ years has been not only been a fun experience but a very educational experience. Knowing the experiences they provide for both the young and the old and those with special needs is truly a special blessing for the Houston community.

I have been a member of the Houston Ballet Guild for 24+ years. The Guild members and Staff are always hardworking, humble, dedicated and kind! It’s an honor and pleasure to be a part of this dynamite Team, raising money for the Houston Ballet while making the world a better place through the Arts!

A great family, a great experience. World class dancers and wonderful productions. Houston Ballet can marvel you with either a world premiere or a classic work. Really has something for everybody, each of the shows is so different! Tirelessly working to keep a vital part of our souls alive: the arts.

The Houston Ballet is a great organization that supports the community through the arts.

Houston Ballet is an amazing top shelf organization. The dancers are suburb, the productions are absolutely breath taking from the scenery, costumes and staging. Houston should be so proud of their very own Ballet company!!! Treasure this gem and support Houston Ballet by donating, volunteering, but more then ever, join the audience and get ready to escape with live theater. I wish I lived in Houston to see every production. I am lucky to get down there twice annually.

Returning to the performances this past month has been perfect!! from easy ticket purchase, clarity of safety precautions, and especially the courtesy of the people of the Houston Ballet! I look forward to many more performances!

The organization manages its finances very carefully. Gifts are well-utilized.

Houston Ballet has continued to provide the Ballet experience to all of Houston throughout our Harvey Recovery and even more so during this last year with the COVID 19 shutdown. The Ballet found a way to continue performing and reaching out to the Houston Community.
The Educational Outreach touches thousands of young people each year.
Houston Ballet is a gem to Houston.

Without this program my student would not have been able able to attend dance class with Houston Ballet. Houston Ballet has been a wonderful experience for my student academically and physically.

Houston Ballet is serving the Houston community in an inspiring way by bringing the love of dance to all audiences!

Dance at its finest!!!! High quality arts education for all. That is Houston BAllet.

These dancers play a huge role in the Houston arts community. They are athletes in the true sense of the word, and Stanton Welch has choreographed wonderful pieces for them. The Ballet also offers great subscription packages, and I get to see performances in the beautiful Wortham Center.

Amazing organization, generous to its workers as well as its community, and passionate about what they do in every regard. I am in love with this organization and am in awe of the sacrifices each member makes to bring the beauty of classical ballet to the Houston community.

Wonderful classic ballet and dance! Houston Ballet is a jewel of the city of Houston.

Houston Ballet is a jewel in the city of Houston. We are so lucky to experience world class ballet right at home!

Houston Ballet is a vital and vibrant part of the arts culture in Houston!

When I was in my 50s, I bought tickets for my mom and I to attend Houston Ballet's "The Nutcracker." I gave her the tickets on MY birthday. It was so great to enjoy our first professional ballet together. Our first shared ballet experience was my recital at 7 years old.

Houston Ballet has been a wonderful part of my life for as long as I can remember - from childhood, to sharing it with my children, and now grandchildren. From exceptionally talented, inspirational dancers and choreography to gorgeous costumes and sets - how blessed we are to have such a treasure in our midst! Vive le Houston Ballet!

We have been enjoying the performances by The Houston Ballet for many years. It started as a small tradition for the ladies of the family, my grandmother, mom, sister and I, enjoying the nutcracker performance every year. That grew into purchasing an annual subscription. We now enjoy the captivating performances with our extended family, from in-laws to nieces and nephews. The Houston Ballet’s creativity, athleticism, and hospitality is always excellent.

The Houston Ballet organization runs a first class ballet school and dance companies. The school provides amazing instruction and opportunity for countless students – many on full or partial scholarships. I can tell you from first-hand experience with two of my daughters that the Houston experience is top notch. And the HBA summer program is among the best in the country. It is extremely well run and the students are cared for both in and out of the studio. This provides a parent like me tremendous peace of mind knowing my child is being taught well and will be safe and looked after throughout the many weeks far away from home. Thank you Houston for all you do and have done for so many. 5 Stars!!!! Joe Chesapeake, Virginia (USA)

Love Houston Ballet and the Academy! They have an amazing leadership team.

I'm an adult student, not a parent of a student, nor a professional. Houston Ballet has classes for adults too, and they are taking substantial precautions to protect everyone. Super community-involved and oriented, they typically have classes of school children in to watch performances, cancelled now bc of covid. Well-managed non-profit, and super honest and responsive to the community. Just what a non-profit should be.

Houston Ballet is one of the most honest and transparent companies I've been associated. From both board leardership and staff leadership, they continue to share all news, financial reports/status, etc. not only with patrons but also publicly. They have done the most remarkable job switching from in-person performances to virtual performances due to Covid. I am honored and proud to be an integral part of this organization through fund-raising, subscribing, supporting and promoting. BRAVO! Houston Ballet Foundation!

The Foundation Board of the Houston Ballet is an incredible group of people that I have the privilege of joining this year on the Board. They genuinely love the Houston Ballet and are working tirelessly to make it a success in these unprecedented times. The deep concern they have for all the Dancers and Staff is astounding. I consider it a great honor to be working alongside these people.

Houston Ballet is an organization that works diligently to reach a wide audience. The organization makes every effort possible to expand its reach to Houstonians through programs and performances. Houston Ballet has a strong presence on social media and has engaged a wide array of people locally and internationally during the Covid19 pandemic. The dancers are beautiful, the artistic direction fantastic, and the leadership staff and foundation both work to ensure that Houston will have a premier company for years to come.

There are so many opportunities for volunteering and helping the ballet whether it involves guiding students, sewing materials for the market, or taking part in the Nutcracker Market. Volunteers also have the opportunity to see live performances and get a closer look into the workings of the ballet. There are wonderful social activities as well to help connect with others with similar interests.

The Houston Ballet Foundation is an outstanding organization that supports the arts and brings the arts to all constituents of the Houston community. Our world-class ballet company has a world-class support foundation, and I am so grateful to be a part of this community.

I volunteer for Houston Ballet’s Educational Outreach program. I photograph their teaching artists working with public school children. I have seen a wide variety of classes but all of them have one thing in common: the passion that these teachers have for working with the kids and exposing them to art, to movement, to music. When these artists go into a school, they are completely committed to providing a top notch experience, with live musical accompaniment, a well thought out curriculum and energetic and nurturing teaching. I love photographing these classes because I know that I am seeing lives being changed.

The Houston Ballet offers the most highly professional dance performance and training outside of New York City, offering quality training in their classes and performances equal to those anywhere in the world. The Houston Ballet is a treasure - long established in the history of Houston and supported and loved by
All ages- school children , professional dancers , and patrons of the arts.
I am just a dance lover, a former dancer, a grandmother now who is so excited to be able to bring my 5 year old grand daughter to see her first Nutcracker - The Houston Ballet Nutcracker! We will be there for the Sunday Matinee December 1
In the Orchestra, and I’ll bet one of us will be in a tutu! Kudos to the Houston Ballet!

My 12 year old son loves ballet thanks to the Houston Ballet Foundation. He was offered a Chance To Dance scholarship four years ago and hasn't looked back since. Our family will be forever thankful for the chance given to him to learn from some of the best in the business!

Houston Ballet has been offering performances, programming and Houston Ballet Academy training to our students for many years. All of our participating teachers, students, and parents have been so appreciative of the generous commitment to our 100% Title I Hispanic elementary. More than two dozen of our second graders have participated in Houston Ballet classes on site and, of those students, four students have been awarded scholarships to receive classes for various years. These students have gone on to have the great delight of playing on stage in several ballets.

Houston Ballet is a WONDERFUL resource for my dancers. They get great field trips, great teachers and free costumes. Houston Ballet has been an integral part of the dance program in MANY HISD schools!!!

I am an elementary teacher at a Title 1 school and our principal reserved seats for our entire first and second grade students to see the Houston Ballet for FREE. The entire event was very organized and when we arrived we were received with smiling faces. All the parents and the girls enjoyed the ballet very much. They were impressed with the dancing and the beautiful costumes. The boys were not shy in admitting that they enjoyed the ballet also. They on the other hand liked the dancing and how the male dancers were lifting the female dancers. This whole experience was up close and very memorable for everyone. As one boy said, "This was fun!" These are the types of experiences that inner city students lack, but need. Exposure to the performing arts should be the norm for all students. Thank you, Lauren Anderson for reaching out to our schools.

I am a University professor at Houston Baptist University. I have attended several Houston Ballet workshops for teachers on how to integrate dance and the other arts with other subjects in the curriculum. The presenters always have been so engaging, well prepared and available for questions and resources . This is one area that sometimes goes unseen since it is not a performing event, but is so valuable for training both pre-service and in-service art and general educators, The ballet performances for schools are an invaluable way to create interest in dance and see how through the arts we can create meaning in life . I want to thank and encourage people and institutions who sponsor the Houston Ballet Foundation for their contribution to make Houston a better place to live and enjoy what dance and the other arts offer to enhance our lives.

I am a homeschooling mom to a 4th grader and a 6th grader. We have been part of the free performances from the Houston School of Ballet for the last 2 years. It has been an honor and privilege to watch these students from all over the world perform and educate us on many topics we are currently covering in our lessons! Thank you for making us a part of your community!!!

FREE programs available for all different types of educational purposes. My school is very excited to have the Houston Ballet.

I'm a teacher at lower income school. Houston Ballet has provided multiple types of programming that has yielded both interest in the art of dance and arts integrated learning in the classroom. The staff at the Houston Ballet is AMAZING! They have exceeded my expectations year after year. They have even provided professional development for teachers that was extremely valuable. The work they do for our school has even stimulated me to attend multiple performances at the ballet! The Houston Ballet is a true gem of Houston!

I have been supporting Houston Ballet since 2011. When Tsunami hit in Japan, they stood up to help those victims by supporting dance event and send them Fund.
This company is truly Global level team. I have been enjoying to watch their performance. And I really recommend everyone to to see HB.

I have volunteered and observed several Houston Ballet dance events. What excellence! The outreach program reaches far and wide across Houston, bringing the joy of dance to many. I love what they are doing!

Our Special Education Class shines bright with the encouragement and enthusiasm of our visiting Artist. They have been easy to coordinate with and very responsive. We are looking forward to them enriching the lives of our other students who wouldn't usually get the opportunity.

Despite several adversities not having fine arts in the school setting, Southmayd Elementary faculty and staff strive to collaboratively provide purposeful opportunities for education which provide opportunities for the education of the “whole” child by motivating and developing critical thinkers who achieve at their full potential while becoming college career ready. Joanna Kent Southmayd Elementary School, Houston ISD, has been an educational landmark in the southeast residential community of Pecan Park for over eighty five years. The student population represents a lower socioeconomic level of 100% whom qualify for free breakfast and lunch. Our students and community do not have the opportunities to experience such an awesome performance as your performance’s demonstrated on our campus for no charge to the students or school.

Because of your generosity students at Southmayd Elementary School continue to benefit from abundant opportunities to learn, grow, and excel. Thank you for partnering with us to help children "celebrate living". We greatly appreciate your support and hope to partner with you again.

The Houston Ballet made a wonderful presentation for our students during their after school program. They sent a representative and she brought costumes/outfits that they have actually worn in different ballet performances. She brought videos to show them of the different types of performances that they have. She showed them that it's not always just for females (boys can be dancers too). My students were totally entertained by her presentation. They loved it!

We work with The Houston Ballet to bring strong arts programming in high needs schools across the City of Houston. The communication, set up, and execution of programs into under resourced schools has been excellent. We have seen the teaching artists rally students to care about schooling and themselves through dance. Deep investment in our kids is clear and the willingness to be flexible to work with extenuating circumstances on the ground has been consistent. We are so grateful for The Houston Ballet's team in providing free, high quality academic, arts, and social emotional learning opportunities that our students desperately need.

My family has had the pleasure of being a part of the Down Syndrome Association of Houston's adapted ballet program at The Houston Ballet since its inception. My daughter Abby has had the pleasure of taking the class with the wonderful teachers in the program like Jennifer Somers, prima ballerina Mimi Hassenboehler and Katey Tidwell. Our special dancers grow into their bodies; they learn how to listen and follow directions as well as learning to have the freedom to express themselves through dance. When my daughter is in class, it gives me and the other parents time to either relax or build a community with the other parents.

The Houston Ballet gives so much rich culture to our great city. Their world class artistry and top quality choreography is more than a match for any ballet company in the country today. We are so incredibly lucky to have them here.

Houston Ballet is a much needed help for our children. Music heals the weary soul and our children need a positive outlet. Having the Houston Ballet entertain and present to our students has proven to be a blessing to everyone. The anger issues and behavior problems are channeled in to positive actions through dance and leadership roles in the classroom.

Thank you for being that beacon of light that our classrooms need in order to shine bright.

Sincerely,
Karren H. Edwards

Houston Ballet’s community engagement programming is simply outstanding! Because of fantastic women such as Lauren Anderson and Jennifer Sommers, I have students who have gained an interest and additional access to ballet. Thank you for the relationship you have developed with our school!

Houston ballet is a beautiful company with down to earth dancers and faculty!

Very nice staff, and extremely talented dancers- both professional and students.

Bringing joy and meaning of ballet to life! Houston Ballet is a resilient company that reaches out to the community and brings people together!

Houston Ballet really wants to enrich the community with world class ballet

The Houston Ballet is a wonderful nonprofit institution - professionalism and a high technical standard can be easily noticed in every single performance produced and delivered to our delight.

Houston Ballet showcases the world's best dancers from leading choreographers. The company helps put Houston on the map as an arts leader.

Houston Ballet brings world-class ballet productions to the city of Houston, exposing us to exciting performances by leading choreographers. I\u2019ve been attending the ballet for over 20 years, and Houston Ballet never disappoints!

It would be a huge undertaking for me to list all the benefits of children learning dance but I would like to point out a few: Dance education aids the development of kinesthetic intelligence. Makes sense, right? But that just grazes the surface.

Dance education also teaches the values and skills of creativity, problem solving, risk taking, making judgments in the absence of rules, and higher-order thinking skills. It also fosters an individual’s ability to better interpret interpersonal nonverbal communication and… learning the dances of other cultures helps students to develop an understanding and respect for them. So not only are the benefits personal, they also help to mold outstanding global citizens.

This summer the kids at the Meadowlands had the opportunity to take part in a Hip Hop dance program sponsored by the Houston Ballet and taught by a very gregarious and talented instructor named Mr. Vi Dieu. To say that the kids took to this program like ducks to water would be a huge exaggeration! Mr. Vi had to coax, bribe and beg to get many of them out of their comfort zones…but he did it!!! Before long even our “coolest” boys had let down their guard and were enjoying themselves. Our wonderful instructor was even able to engage a particular special needs student whose quiet demeanor and general lack of self-confidence often makes it easy for him to be overlooked. By the end of the first class, all the kids were vying for Mr. Vi’s attention and praise and when the last class rolled around, most of the kids had mastered the dance routine. They were all very proud of themselves and a few stand out students were especially hopeful about enrolling in year around classes. As the summer progressed, Mr. Vi’s former students continued to break out some of their new moves—sometimes just for fun, sometimes to show me what they remembered and, once, to vie for the attention of the cute new girl! Did I mention that there is evidence to support the possibility that early humans danced to attract a mate?!?!

Houston Ballet's Education & Community Engagement program is an amazing program! I have a son with autism, who absolutely loves music and dance, but is unable to successfully attend a typical theater performance. HB has recently created their first ever autism-friendly ballet performances for families like mine, and it has been such a blessing to us and so many others across Houston. It means the world to us to have the opportunity to expose our special kids to the arts in such a relaxed and non-judgmental environment, and I am so grateful to HB for recognizing the need and taking the initiative to make these shows happen.

I am a middle school special education teacher. I took my 10 students to Houston Ballet Studio Series performance, featuring Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra two weeks ago. It was FABULOUS! Our class loved the show and we're very grateful for the opportunity to watch such an amazing performance from incredibly talented and hard working dancers. We also appreciate the wonderful Houston Ballet Foundation staff that greeted us especially Lauren Anderson who made our students with special needs feel very comfortable in a new environment. She is great! We sincerely thank Houston Ballet Foundation for making it possible for our community and most especially for students with special needs experience the beauty of arts. Our students' first experience with Houston Ballet was very positive and is something they still talk and get excited about. Thank You!

Houston Ballet is an AMAZING resource for the community. Working at a title 1 middle school we are unable to attend/participate in alot of events & performances throughout the Houston community. I am so grateful that Houston Ballet provides Master Classes and Ballet Talks for my students. The instructors are AMAZING, my students enjoy each and every session and always ask if they can have more. Thank you Houston Ballet for creating such an organized, professional program for our students.

Houston Ballet has an amazing community outreach program! The programs are top-notch and introduce children throughout the Houston area to dance in a fun, engaging manner. Programs are offered on-site to schools as well as at the amazing Houston Ballet Center for Dance. The quality of programming is unsurpassed. Very impressive!

I have been so impressed by the Houston Ballet Foundation's dedication to providing children opportunities to experience the true, good and beautiful through fine arts. The performances and dance labs they offer to our children for free are almost too good to be true! Thank you, Houston Ballet Foundation for opening my children's hearts to beautiful art.

Being an elementary music teacher in Fort Bend ISD, I was overjoyed to find out about the amazing Ballet Talks program that the Houston Ballet offers. Not only is this program no charge for the school, but the Speakers bring props, costumes, and other such accoutrements for the students to experience while watching the Ballet. Most importantly, the presenters bring a high energy that is captivating to students of any age, allowing them all to experience the Ballet to their fullest potential.

Since the Fall of 2015, this program has reached over 900 students in my school, from Kindergarten to 5th grade. Each student was given the opportunity to not only have an amazing cultural experience, but also an opportunity to learn about how different elements of art (physical , dancing, musical) come together to create a beautiful experience. Many of my students have never seen a ballet, much less had the opportunity to touch a ballet toe shoe.
The Ballet Talks has been an amazing opportunity for the students on my campus, and we look forward to our future visits and collaborations with the Houston Ballet.

HB outreach has touched the lives of underprivileged students across the city....for the last 3 years HB came to a school that many would be scared to drive in the neighborhood....the students were able to study from Lauren Anderson, Paul Appleman and Sue Hill as well as others...the students didn't understand what a great treat it was now but hopefully, when they reflect back they will!!!!

The Houston Ballet comes to our 3 Houston area clinics several times a year and offers a movement class to our patients. We appreciate all that the instructors do for us and our patients at Kids Developmental Clinic. It not only encourages the patients but the class also encourages their families, opening their eyes to the possibility of dance. Thank you all for your dedication to our patients.

Our School (Sutton ES in Houston) has profited greatly from the different programs the Houston Ballet offers at no cost. This year we were able to have a program called X³ - Explore, Extend, & Excel at the school. 4th and 5th graders were able to learn and practice a science related dance routine and show it at the end to their parents which they were very excited about. It is wonderful to see that the students understood that they have to put in a lot of work to learn a routine but that it is a great feeling of accomplishment when you finally have your performance at the end!

Houston Ballet has been a blessing to our school and students who get a Channce to Dance. Our first and second grade students had the experience to be able to attend classes for the very first time. Three of the students got a scholarship to attend classes with Houston Ballet dancers. This is a wonderful life long memory to the students. Memories are made and new friendships are beginning. Thank You so much for the opportunity to give back to the community.

Keisha Bussey
Carter Academy

The Houston Ballet has given the students at Bush elementary an amazing opportunity! The class is fun, engaging, and most of all rewarding. The parents and students are truly grateful, as many of the students have never been able to afford dance lessons. We have been more than happy with the staff and their positive attitudes towards the students. We look forward to working with the Houston Ballet in the near future!
Again, thank you for the opportunity.
Regards,
Ms. Estavan- After School Program Site Coordinator

Houston Ballet's Outreach program has been inspiring and educating students at Klein Oak High School since 2007. I can't say enough about the energy, the knowledge, the professionalism and outright love given by Lauren Anderson and the many other staff members. I am proud to say that my hometown ballet company provides such beautiful outreach work for all levels necessary! Thank you HB!!!

The Houston Ballet brings a world of opportunity to students who could never afford to take classes at the Academy. Their high energy choreography helps bring out the best in all our students. Our most timid students have blossomed and become active learners in both dance and in the classroom.

I just want to say that to go to a ballet at the Wortham Center, and see these world renowned dancers is a delight to the mind, body and spirit! The performances take you away to a remarkable place and gives you pure joy. The whole experience is unforgettable. The Houston Ballet does everything exceptionally well and is a treasure for the Houston area.
Sandy

The Houston Ballet comes to many of the KIPP Houston High Schools to make a difference in Dance Programming and training. At KIPP Generations Collegiate, they have donated costumes, trained classes and dance teams in ballet and modern, provided field trip venues where students could experience live ballets and much more. We are very grateful for their Education and Outreach program without which our students would have a less considerable dance experience. The costumes and training have made the dancers feel comfortable and elegant. The students also feel more connected to dance in their community.

I am the Director of a pediatric outpatient rehabilitation facility. Jennifer Sommers of the Houston Ballet Outreach Program has been leading a movement class at my facility for 6 weeks. Enrolled in the course are a range of children varying degrees of neuromuscular, physical, cognitive, and communication deficits. I also participated in the class with a patient who has autism. Miss Jennifer made the activities in the class creative, not too difficult, applicable for each child, and MOST OF ALL, FUN! Each child demonstrated increased mastery of each routine in the class. Miss Jennifer gave special attention to those who needed it. The children, families, and staff here so greatly appreciate Miss Jennifer and the outreach efforts of the Houston Ballet. We thank you very much!

The Houston Ballet has done a fantastic job with the kids of Ed White. We have had a Dance Talk and a Learning From the Masters session held on our campus over the past year. Both got the kids excited about the arts and interested in participating. Since our partnership with the Houston Ballet, the number of students participating in the school dance team has more than doubled! I'm looking forward to the next year with the Houston Ballet and I hope for many years afterwards this partnership will continue! The kids really do get an opportunity to step into an experience out of their element and the resulting culture of the campus towards the arts is fantastic!

I have been dancing recreationally since I was 3 years old and I recently moved to Houston so I joined the Houston Ballet Guild and Ballet Barre for young professionals as a way to meet friends and go to some great performances. Everyone has been so welcoming, my involvement makes it even more fun to go to shows. I've signed up for many volunteer opportunities and have already been trained to give tours of their beautiful Center for Dance! There are so many opportunities waiting at the Houston Ballet!

This organization promotes the Arts in a culture that is eliminating the Arts from elementary and high schools, colleges and the media. Houston Ballet programs are presented for the general public, but additionally presented by outreach programs for elementary students, for geriatrics organizations, for specialized communities like Parkinson's patients and Special Education students. Consumers within the Houston Ballet area feel ownership and pride in the organization and support it well. The Houston Ballet is also a presence on Facebook and in the national and international media, including participation in international ballet competitions.

The Houston Ballet not only provides incredible arts and entertainment but also does wonderful outreach work in Houston. They embrace and are embraced by the people of Houston and the quality of their dance performances is top notch.

My husband and I attended the Open House for the Performing Arts last year in the fall. We signed up for season tickets for the Houston Ballet. Not really knowing what to expect except that we would be seeing ballet, we were BLOWN AWAY with the quality, professional talent of the Houston Ballet!!! The dancers are so talented and professional and from all over the world. The choreography and staging is fresh, exciting, and cutting edge. The scenery, costumes, and lighting are some of the best and finest I have ever experienced. Anyone who either lives in Houston or is just visiting needs to experience the Houston Ballet. I am proud to say I support the Houston Ballet!

Houston Ballet just gave a series of wonderful performances in New York City at The Joyce Theater that I was fortunate enough to witness.

The dancers of the company are extraordinarily versatile, with superb classical technique.

The company offers many free performances at Miller Theater and Discovery Green in Houston as well as free performances for inner city Houston students.

You can get tickets to most shows for just $19, so they are very committed to serving the broadest possible audience.

My son is living a wonderful experience like a Houston Ballet ^s student, he is very happy there learning more and more each day,he is very happy with his teachers, and all the people working there.He is very far from home (we are from Argentina)but feels like at home,thank you Houston Ballet for given my child the oportunity of live this unforgettable experience!!!!

The Houston Ballet Foundation and the Ballet itself, "speak" to all people and across racial, cultural, social, educational, and economic barriers by provide opportunities for self-expression that in turn make our city a better place. The Houston Ballet is a blessing and such an inspiration to witness each season.

Houston Ballet is a treasure. The opportunities it gives it's dancers are life changing. It encourages our young to dream and strive for excellence with the various outreaches it does. I have seen the sparkle of excitement in children's eyes when they are meeting the Sugar Plum Fairy or the Nutcracker Prince. I heard one little one ask "are they real?"
Personally, when I go to watch Houston Ballet I am NEVER disappointed. While I am there I am transported to another place where I can forget about the world outside and am swept into the world they are creating at that moment. As I said Houston Ballet is a treasure, and we need to cherish it.

Sharing the art of ballet with Houston and beyond, they are an exceptional company, dedicated to their art. With free lectures and performances, as well as opening their doors to the students of Houston and those without the means to afford private classes, they are committed to expanding the public's knowledge of dance as an art form and athletic endeavor, as well as increasing participation.

I moved to Houston 12 years ago. I have always had a love of the arts and felt passionate about them. I was not making very much money at that time and wanted to see a ballet. Much to my delight the Houston Ballet was doing Peter Pan. Peter Pan is my favorite story. I bought the best seats I could afford. Although they were high up in the balcony there truly is not a bad seat in the house. The production exceeded my expectations. Following the performance I went downstairs to inquire about season tickets. I bought myself a subscription as a belated birthday present. My only regret is I could not afford a weekend night. That being said the Houston Ballet has never let me down. The productions are beautiful and the work they do is amazing. My mom and I go every year to the Nutcracker Market. I cannot imagine a better organization to support.

Our school district has partnered with the Houston Ballet for past four years. We could not ask for a better organization to work with our students. We have had the opportunity to send students to the Houston Ballet as well as have on site instruction for students through a variety of programs. The large majority of students in our district come from socio-economically disadvantaged homes and these programs offer invaluable experiences. We are so grateful for the continuing support shown to us by the Houston Ballet.

We are so fortunate to have the Houston Ballet serve our underpriveleged students on campus and at their studio. Last year was our first year to participate in some of the programs they offer, and am grateful they have allowed us to participate again this year in even more programs. Their instructors are extremely knowledgable in working with young and older students. The students love interacting with them, and word spreads fast when they are on campus.

Houston Ballet Foundation introduces our young to dance and has launched many a professional dance career.

Houston Ballet has been a part of Houston for many years, but each year they make a bigger impact on the community. The quality of their company and performances is at a world class level. Their outreach programs are bound to have a positive influence in the community and will inspire gifted dancers and other artists in the coming years. Houston Ballet Foundation is a vital part of the energy and beauty of Houston.

The Houston Ballet has provided excellent teachers that provide high quality instruction to our students. They provide an unforgettable experience to my students and we are so lucky to have the Houston Ballet!

The Houston Ballet has provided wonderful opportunities for our students. Our students have gained confidence through participating in their after school program, and it was incredible for their parents and the rest of the school to see their amazing performance at the end of the semester. Many of our students previously have not been able to participate in dance because of a lack of financial resources, and the Houston Ballet has helped our students explore their interests. Finally, our school has received donations through the Houston Ballet of real dance performance attire. Our students were thrilled when we surprised them with their recital outfits, and they are so grateful for everything the Houston Ballet has done for us!

The Ballet's Educational Outreach Program has been a great experience for our students at Davila Elementary. Ms. Jennifer Sommers has been coming to the school for almost three months and the students enjoyed and learn creative movements. It has been a learning experience that the students will always cherish. Thank you!

This was our first year working the the wonderful people at the Houston Ballet and it was AWESOME! The students learned so much and were so enthuastic that it it inspired me to attempt to present our version of the Nutcracker as our Winter Showcase for our parents and school administration. The performance was so special!:) We used all of the things that Ms. Lauren taught us and put it all together with a lot of love and lots of safety pins and made it the best showcase ever!:) Everyone at the Houston Ballet is so sweet to the students and welcoming to all of us. Thank you sooooo much Lauren and Mr. Cobb. Our students will never forget this experience.

The Houston Ballet has brought a great amount of joy to our students every year that they provide thier services to our students. Without them our students would never get a chance to receive these classes.

I work with at-risk students. We don't have much, but what we do have we work for. I've been blessed to witness my students interact and absorb what the Houston Ballet has to offer (they are so generous to us!) Working with Alex Arizpe, Chase Cobb, Lauren Anderson and Jennifer Sommers so far has been the most delightful experience. They are passionate about what they do, and they certainly know what they are doing because of it! I'm grateful to the organization and all of those mentioned previously for sharing such love for dance with my students and myself. It has broadened our dance horizons immensely, and I will continue to work towards bringing them back to us again and again!

Houston Ballet is an excellent organization. Their educational outreach is phenomenal. My students (at public high school) and I enjoyed their program very much. Thank you for giving this great opportunity to students who otherwise would not be exposed to dance at all.

The Houston Ballet is an amazing organization. We rightfully count our ballet company among the top five in the country, and among the top ten in the world-- impressive standing for a city perhaps better known for oil production and cowboys! We educate thousands of younsters in dance, and we reach out to the school communities for "conversations" about ballet. The most vivid recent achievement for the Ballet is the new Center for Dance, located across from the Wortham Center and connected by a sky-bridge. This building is fitting tribute to a world-class company that represents the best of our city-- high achievers perfecting their art at the top of their field. I'm proud to be affiliated as a Board member, volunteer and ballet afficiando.

Houston Ballet is a truly international company, perfect for such a cosmopolitan city. The dancers come to us from all over the world and the repertory (six different programs each season plus 30 performances of The Nutcracker) includes ballets by the world's best choreographers, both classical and cutting edge. Artistic director Stanton Welch, an Australian, has choreographed both classical and contemporary ballets (Madame Butterfly, Marie, The Four Seasons, Divergence, Velocity, etc.) for Houston Ballet and other major companies (e.g. San Francisco Ballet). He directs both the company and the school (Ben Stevenson Academy). Students from the school have won top prizes at international ballet competitions. Audiences love the company's performances. The company's new Center for Dance opens spring 2011 and will be the largest dance facility in the nation, enhancing Houston's vibrant performing arts scene even further. Houston is so lucky to have Houston Ballet!

Working for the Houston Ballet was an absolute joy. The working enviroment was professional, yet we all worked together like a family. The work that HB does within the Houston community can be clearly seen within their Education and Outreach programming and through their season performances. I will always value the time spent as an employee at Houston Ballet.

The Houston Ballet Foundation is an excellent organization. Lauren Anderson was the person who came to Crockett Elem. to work with our children. She had such a postive attitude and taught not only the children but me as well how to dance. My students are from a low income area and would never have gotten the opportunity to practice ballet. With this foundation it opened up door for them. Eventhough the ballet is over for my school the girls are still running around doing the steps that they learned from Ms. Anderson. Not only did Ms. Anderson teach at our school but the kids got a chance to go to the Houston Ballet facility and learn dance from Ms. Anderson. I wish you could have seen their faces when they saw the ballet shoes, outfits and pictures of the ballerinas on the wall. I was totally impressed with the facility myself. The students even got a chance to meet some of the ballerinas, what an awesome experience!!! The Houston Ballet Foundation has made a lot of children dream dreams and know that one day those dreams of becoming a ballerina could come true. Thanks soooo much.

The Houston Ballet's Educational Outreach Program reaches out to Browning Elementary School for two years. Students in grades K-5 who might not be exposed to dance or the ballet benefit greatly. One program a ballerina brought out costumes and played video bits from a ballet and taught the kids how to 'view' a story told through dance. Another program we have prima ballerinas, like Lauren Anderson, who come out a teach one class for ten to twelve weeks. The students learn creative movements, ballet poses, stretch and posture. Wow, Houston Ballet's generous gifts of time and talent make Browning a school where children excel.

The dance students in our high school receive master classes from both Lauren Anderson and Alex Arispe. Classes include classical ballet and social dance spanning the decades.

The opportunity for the students at Emerson Elementary to engage is dance was fantastic! Our students not only had the experience of learning and enjoying the nuances of dance, but now have a greater appreciation and understanding of the discipline involved in the art of dance. I believe it is is a learning experience that they will always cherish. Hopefully, they will have further opportunities to engage in dance or simply be part of an appreciative audience in the future. Our parents keep calling to thank us for providing this opportunity for their children! Thank you Houston Ballet!

Having the Houston Ballet instruct our students was like a dream come true! Houston Ballet has helped instill the love of dance in all of our students. With encouragement and praise, the disciplines learned will last for a lifetime. Students enjoyed every minute. Ms. Lauren Anderson makes every student feel special. With a gentle 'firmness', she helps them to excel. She is so graceful, but yet so powerful. Thanks to Houston Ballet, you have changed their lives forever.

This program is awesome, they provide so much support to our students. They open up a new world that our students could only imagine before they came, our students love the teachers that come out to spent time with them and teach them new skills.

I have had the Houston Ballet Outreach program at my school for the past 2 years. The organiztion is very professional and they really impact the students here at my school. The students are always excited when Wednesday comes becuase they know that they are about to have fun and most importantly learn something new!

I have an after-school girls club and, after many bad experiences with area providers, invited the HB to come out and work with my girls. This has been the most wonderful organization to work with. The program was easy to implement and the volunteer instructor is awesome with my students. They absolutely love her! I can not express how pleased and appreciative I am of this program. It has been the best self-esteem booster for these young ladies.

We are very fortunate to have Lauren Anderson as our instructor for classical ballet. This is our second semester to have the program and our students absolutely love it. They have grown so much from this experience and exposure to the arts. The Houston Ballet Outreach program has provided our students with an opportunity that would be beyond the reach of many. Our students come from low SES backgrounds and are on free or reduced lunch at school. Unfortunately, their circumstances would not allow them this priveledge if not provided through the outreach program. We are extremely grateful for this educational experience.

As an inner city school serving mostly economically disadvantaged families whose children are enrolled in this school, our students were very fortunate to have had the experience of learning dance letters from Houston Ballet Artists. Grades 1 & 2 students were invited to visit the Houston Ballet studio every week to learn classical ballet. Even bus transportation was provided for the students. Grades 3, 4 & 5 students had the opportunity to learn dances at our campus each week. Also we had Ballet Talk programs organized by Houston Ballet to promote awareness of Ballet to all students in our school. Our entire school community has been greatly blessed through their outreach program. We have issued a school newsletter entirely devoted to this productive partnership

Jessup has been so blessed with the presence of the Houston Ballet. They have made a major impact on our students.Their interaction with our students has made a world of difference in their behavior and self esteem.Teachers and parents alike have commented on how well the students are coming along for the better.The dance instructors have been exceptional they fit in perfect with the children and have become a part of the Jessup family.I can only hope that you will continue to support the Educational Outreach Program from the Houston Ballet.