Executive Director’s Notes: Coppélia

Dear Friends,

We’re so glad to see you here, on your screen, for the Rep V installment in our Dance Happens Everywhere digital season. Your enthusiasm for both the new works we’ve created for film as well as PNB’s archival features (so many artists in one space! Actual audiences clapping in the background!), has bolstered our spirits, provided much needed financial support, and reminded us that our community of ballet friends and fans is far-flung, diverse, and committed to our sustainability. From all of us, thank you for making all the difference in how we approached our work and its outcomes across this exceptional season.

Soon, you’ll hear from us about our plans for next season. For those of you counting the days until you return to McCaw Hall, get ready to renew your subscription for six in-person programs beginning in September. For those of you who join us from one of 50 states or 36 countries, we’ll be inviting you to join us as digital subscribers for filmed versions of our McCaw Hall programs.  For our in-person patrons, please be assured that we’re doing everything possible to ensure your safety and comfort, as well as the safety of artists, backstage crews, and front of house staff. We know more about ventilation and vaccination than any group of arts administrators in history, and that’s fine with us as long as it means a return to the stage in our near future.

As you’re enjoying PNB’s Coppélia, I hope you’ll listen with special attention to the PNB Orchestra playing Leo Delibes’ exquisite score. Given Covid restrictions, this group of extraordinary musicians and colleagues has lost more than 90% of their work this season. Of our many pandemic losses, this one really hurts. And yet, when we gather for our All-Staff Zooms, they are there to meet us with their inimitable grace and support for the company. Our musicians are featured in this program’s bonus content, and it’s a rare and wonderful treat. PNBO, we miss you and appreciate every one of you.

Warm regards,

Ellen Walker
Executive Director

Featured photo: Leta Biasucci and Benjamin Griffiths in George Balanchine’s Coppélia. Photo © Angela Sterling.