EDITOR
Ashley McLellan
ART DIRECTOR Ali Sullivan
DIGITAL DIRECTOR
Rosa Balaguer
PRODUCTION DESIGNERS
Ashley Pemberton, Czarlyn Ria Trinidad
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Brooke LeBlanc Brooke@MyNewOrleans.com CEO Todd Matherne
Our warmest welcome to the 2025-26 Season of Dance!
We are thrilled to welcome Dance Theatre of Harlem, a singular voice in ballet whose legacy has inspired generations; Tango After Dark , bringing the passion and elegance of Argentina’s most celebrated dance form; and Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, electrifying audiences with both groundbreaking new works and rarely seen pieces by the legendary Bob Fosse.
In November, we are honored to reunite artistic geniuses Trey McIntyre and Ben Jaffe in a restaging of their landmark work, Ma Maison . Commissioned by NOBA in 2007 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, this extraordinary collaboration with the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band was created at a critical time to show the world that New Orleans endures – alive, creative and essential. Blending McIntyre’s inventive choreography with the soul of Preservation Hall’s music, Ma Maison carried the city’s resilience, joy and spirit to audiences around the globe. For the 20th anniversary, the renowned company BODYTRAFFIC will perform Ma Maison alongside the Preservation Hall Jazz Band, bringing new life to a work that continues to embody NOBA’s conviction that dance can tell our story. This historic collaboration also marked the first in a new commissioning initiative pairing world-renowned choreographers with New Orleans jazz musicians, an initiative that has since produced seven acclaimed works.
Today, NOBA stands strong and stable. Through perseverance and careful stewardship, we not only rebuilt — we grew. We
continue to bring the world’s leading companies to the region while integrating our Main Stage and education programs so that local youth and adult participants can train with and learn from these artists tuition-free. From a first plié in a neighborhood center to a master class on the Mahalia Jackson Theater stage, our students engage directly with the art and the artists that inspire them. From Dance for Parkinson’s to Senior Dance Fitness, our community programs continue to demonstrate how dance strengthens bodies, lifts spirits and unites people of every age.
None of this would be possible without the vision and dedication of many. We are deeply grateful to NOBA’s Board of Directors, the volunteers of BRAVO and Men and Women of Fashion, donors, partners, artists and staff whose belief, generosity and hard work have sustained this organization. And to you — our subscribers, audiences and community — thank you for showing up, season after season. Your presence and support keep the circle unbroken.
Here’s to an unforgettable year of artistry, access and opportunity, grounded in our history, rooted in our community and reaching for what’s next.
With gratitude,
Gregory Curtis, Board Chair
Jenny Hamilton, Executive Director
CHAIR
Gregory Curtis
VICE CHAIRS
Sandra Stage Chaisson
Monique Gougisha Doucette
Steven A. Friedman
Cynthia LeBreton
SECRETARY
Elizabeth Ellison-Frost
TREASURER
Cathy M. Green
IMMEDIATE PAST CHAIR
Dottie Belletto
LIFETIME MEMBERS
Jacquelyn B. Clarkson*
M. Cécile Gibson
Henrietta Ramirez Hall
Dr. Bernard M. Jaffe
Dr. E. Ralph Lupin*
Nancy O’Connell*
Phyllis M. Taylor
Janée M. Tucker
Betty Wisdom*
*deceased
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Jenny R. Hamilton
BOX OFFICE/AUDIENCE SERVICES
Wanda W. Fulton
CENTER FOR DANCE/EDUCATION
Millette White Lin
Bethani Pete Collins
DEVELOPMENT/EVENTS
Francesca Martin
MARKETING/PUBLIC RELATIONS
Kaysee Donathan
Carol Fox & Associates
TECHNICAL/WARDROBE
Baylee Robertson
Alex Smith
Mandi Wood
MEMBERS
Mark R. Beebe
Charlotte Bollinger
Tiffa Boutté
Guy P. Brierre
Taiwan Brown
Stephanie Burks
Jacquee Carvin
Scott Champagne
Allison Shapiro Dandry
Rosalyn Ditta
John M. Duck
Ann Duplessis
Krystle Duplessis
Marian Gibbs
Laurie Guimont
Teresa Guzzetta
Neil Jolly, MD
Mary Lakey
Henry M. Lambert
Sunni LeBeouf
Willis A. Lovell
Max Moreno
Camille Patti
Holly S. Popham
James Schoen
Marilyn H. Smith
Toni Van Zandt
Constance Willems
Pamela M. Williams
FINANCE Ready CPA LLC
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Lauren Faustermann
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jeff Strout
TECHNOLOGY Courant
VIDEOGRAPHY
Bruce France
Founded in 1969, the New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) cultivates understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of dance through performance, education and community service. NOBA’s dynamic programs position it as a leading dance and service organization throughout the region and a unique, national model dedicated solely to dance.
50+ extraordinary concerts featuring over 2,000 artists
8 dance companies/choreographers as artists in residence
80+ pre-professional students in performance on local and national stages during the school year & summer
2 arts healing programs at 5 locations – Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program and the Senior Dance Fitness Program
2,000 students ages 4–80+
100+ weekly tuition-free classes and activities at up to 20 neighborhood sites
5,500+ tuition-free dance classes and activities annually
75,000+ contact hours with participants of education programs
40+ local artists’ employment and professional development
33,000 dance enthusiasts through more than 5,500 services
New Orleans Ballet Association
935 Gravier Street, Suite 800
New Orleans, La 70112
T (504) 522-0996
NOBAdance.com
Follow us @nobadance on
SAT | OCT 11, 2025 | 7:30PM
“Poised to continue to redefine classical ballet.” – Playbill
Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) has transformed lives and redefined classical ballet with its blend of excellence and innovation. This beloved company brings passion and precision to works by George Balanchine, William Forsythe and Artistic Director Robert Garland, showcasing the extraordinary range of its dancers. For over 55 years, DTH has captivated audiences worldwide with its groundbreaking performances.
with Preservation Hall Jazz Band
SAT | NOV 15, 2025 | 7:30PM
“One of the most versatile and thrilling contemporary ballet companies.”
– The New York Times
BODYTRAFFIC joins forces with renowned choreographer Trey McIntyre for an unforgettable evening. The program features Mayday, honoring Buddy Holly, and a special restaging of Ma Maison with Preservation Hall Jazz Band and excerpts of The Sweeter End , commemorating Hurricane Katrina’s 20th anniversary — a powerful tribute to New Orleans’ enduring spirit.
SAT | JAN 24, 2026 | 7:30PM
“Argentine tango at its very best.” – Dance Tabs
Tango After Dark is an electrifying theatrical experience led by World Champions Germán Cornejo and Gisela Galeassi. With an award-winning cast of dancers, singers and live musicians, the production fuses the sensual roots of traditional tango with a bold contemporary edge, igniting Piazzolla’s passionate music in a sizzling display of the soul and fire of Buenos Aires.
SAT | MAR 21, 2026 | 7:30PM
“Hubbard Street Dance Chicago ought to bottle itself as a cure for the ills of the era”
– The New York Times
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (HSDC) returns with a landmark program including Bob Fosse’s Sweet Gwen Suite and Percussion IV—making HSDC the only company authorized to perform Fosse. Also featured: works by Alvin Ailey’s Matthew Rushing and other renowned choreographers.
SUN | DEC 7, 2025 | 3PM & 6PM Dixon Hall, Tulane University
Experience the magic of Tchaikovsky’s classic holiday adventure in a special one-hour production perfect for the entire family. From an enchanting party, a dramatic battle and dancing dolls to a whimsical journey to the Land of Sweets, this magical tale is uniquely brought to life by over 100 participants ages 6-70+ of NOBA’s tuition-free programs for youth and senior citizens from the greater metropolitan area.
SUN | MAY 17, 2026 | 7PM | Dixon Hall, Tulane University
This inspirational evening of dance features the remarkable talent and accomplishments of our young artists performing new works by renowned local and guest artists.
FRI | JUL 31, 2026 | 7PM
Freda Lupin Hall, NOCCA
Join us for a special concert of works created and set by the esteemed guest artists from companies such as Ballet Hispánico, BODYTRAFFIC, Complexions Contemporary Ballet and more during the heralded summer intensive.
“Take any chance you can get to see this gem of a company perform!”
– Broadwayworld.com
SAT | OCT 11, 2025 | 7:30PM Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts
Dance Theatre of Harlem stands as a dynamic force in the ballet world, captivating audiences both nationally and internationally. Their repertoire is a thrilling blend of treasured classics, neoclassical masterpieces by George Balanchine and Artistic Director Robert Garland, and cutting-edge contemporary works that embody co-founder Arthur Mitchell’s belief that ballet is for everyone. Through electrifying performances, community engagement, and arts education programs, Dance Theatre of Harlem champions the power of the arts to inspire and empower.
They are a leading dance institution of unparalleled global acclaim, encompassing a world-class company, a professional studio school, a leading arts education program — Dancing Through Barriers ® — and community engagement activities. Each
component of Dance Theatre of Harlem carries a solid commitment towards enriching the lives of young people and adults around the world through the arts. Founded in 1969 by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, Dance Theatre of Harlem was considered “one of ballet’s most exciting undertakings” ( The New York Times , 1971). Shortly after the assassination of The Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mitchell was inspired to start a school that would offer children — especially those in Harlem, the community in which he was born — the opportunity to learn about dance and the allied arts. Now in its fifth decade, Dance Theatre of Harlem has grown into a multicultural dance institution with an extraordinary legacy of providing opportunities for creative expression and artistic excellence that continues to set standards in the performing arts.
“What does dance give you? The freedom to be who you are and do what you want to do.”
– Arthur Mitchell, Co-Founder, Dance Theatre of Harlem
Artistic Director Robert Garland was a member of the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company from 19851998, achieving the rank of principal dancer. After creating a work for the Dance Theatre of Harlem School Ensemble, Arthur Mitchell invited Garland to create a work for the Dance Theatre of Harlem Company and appointed him the organization’s first resident choreographer. Before becoming Dance Theatre of Harlem’s artistic director, he was director of the Dance Theatre of Harlem School. In 2023, Garland was appointed the artistic director of Dance Theatre of Harlem. His works for the company include Higher Ground , New Bach, Return , Nyman
String Quartet No. 2 and The Cookout, among others. Many are in his signature postmodern-urbanneo-classical style. In addition to choreographing several ballets for the company, Garland has also created works for New York City Ballet, Britain’s Royal Ballet, Oakland Ballet and many others. His commercial work has included music videos, commercials and short films, including the children’s television show “Sesame Street,” a Nike commercial featuring New York Yankee Derek Jeter, the NAACP Image Awards, a short film for designer Donna Karan and the “Charmin Cha-Cha” for Proctor and Gamble. Garland holds a BFA degree from The Juilliard School in New York City.
“One of the most versatile and thrilling contemporary ballet companies.”
– The New York Times
SAT | NOV 15, 2025 | 7:30PM
Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts
Movement, conceptual and physical, is humankind’s only common language. As a 21st-century dance company, BODYTRAFFIC is honored to share the responsibility of making dance accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances, within the national and international cultural ecosystem.
A forward-thinking company, BODYTRAFFIC is not one driven by a single choreographic voice. It aims to endorse established and new voices and be a home for an eclectic range of styles and perspectives that tell vital stories. By commissioning renowned choreographers, including Kyle Abraham, Ohad Naharin, Hofesh Shechter, Victor Quijada, Arthur Pita, Fernando Magadan and Micaela Taylor, it cultivates opportunities for artists to fully embody their creative practice and conceive new, contemporary pieces. Connecting individuals of vastly different life experiences through dance, BODYTRAFFIC has toured the world and continues to deepen its investment in its home city of Los Angeles.
Bringing the spirit of Los Angeles to audiences worldwide, BODYTRAFFIC has performed across 30 states and 20 countries. The
company proudly represented the U.S. on tours to Algeria, Indonesia, Israel, Jordan and South Korea. During its 10th anniversary season (2017–2018), BODYTRAFFIC embarked on an extensive tour, including performances at the CONTEXT Diana Vishneva Festival and the Holland Dance Festival in The Hague. These experiences have deepened the company’s commitment to cross-cultural exchange, while refining its mission to foster creativity and cultural understanding across the globe.
BODYTRAFFIC inspires and uplifts its community and beyond through its education and outreach programs. Focusing on supporting the whole dancer, it provides programs ranging from youth-focused intensive training and master classes to professional development for established artists that encourage their growth by nurturing their unique identities. Every year, it mentors more than 500 students from diverse backgrounds. Challenge, passion, empathy, inclusion and growth are at the heart of everything BODYTRAFFIC does. It seeks to elevate dance beyond an art form to a mode of exploration and celebration of ideas and spirit through movement. Because, after all, without movement, nothing changes.
Artistic Director
Tina Finkelman Berkett is a visionary leader in contemporary dance, known for curating original, compelling repertory and redefining the art form across the U.S. and internationally. Her career began with Aszure Barton & Artists, where she quickly became a featured dancer and assistant to Barton. A career highlight was being a founding member of Mikhail Baryshnikov’s Hell’s Kitchen Dance , touring internationally with the legendary performer and developing a passion for arts administration as the company’s dancer liaison.
In 2007, Finkelman Berkett founded BODYTRAFFIC in Los Angeles, driven by a commitment to elevate contemporary dance. Under her leadership, BODYTRAFFIC has become a beacon in the global dance community, known for its innovative choreography, world-class dancers, and powerful performances. Through her curation and vision, Finkelman Berkett continues to foster a vibrant artistic community that captivates and inspires audiences around the world.
Restaging the landmark works of Trey McIntyre and Preservation Hall Jazz Band in honor of Katrina 20
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, NOBA launched a commissioning initiative to pair worldrenowned choreographers with New Orleans jazz musicians, showcasing the city’s resilience and cultural vitality to the world. The first of these collaborations brought together visionary choreographer Trey McIntyre and Ben Jaffe with the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band, resulting in the creation of Ma Maison and later The Sweeter End . Both works were hailed by critics as electrifying fusions of contemporary dance and New Orleans’ most beloved musical traditions, touring nationally and internationally to remind audiences why New Orleans matters.
In honor of the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, NOBA is restaging these landmark works, featuring new elements while preserving their original spirit of resilience and renewal. Praised by The New York Times as “a true 21st century ballet voice,” McIntyre’s work has earned him a reputation as a groundbreaking American choreographer, balancing tradition with a distinct voice that resonates with audiences worldwide. Preservation Hall Jazz Band, one of the most iconic ensembles in American music, has carried forward the traditions of New Orleans jazz for over six decades while remaining dynamic and innovative collaborators. Together, McIntyre and Preservation Hall Jazz Band created works that not only honored the city’s past but also reimagined its future— demonstrating the enduring power of art to inspire, heal and connect communities.
“ Tango After Dark lingers on the notes of passion from the first beat. A show of technique and unbelievable craftsmanship.”
– NORTH WEST END UK,
LONDON
SAT | JAN 24, 2026 | 7:30PM Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts
Tango After Dark is the ultimate theatrical tango experience straight from Argentina, merging the intoxicating music of great Argentine tango composer Astor Piazzolla with jaw-dropping choreography and breath-taking moves to reveal tango in its most authentic, yet sophisticated, form. As Argentina’s most popular dance, world-renowned for its seductive powers, this mesmerizing show combines the sensuous side of tango with its rawness and quick-fire precision, taking this passionate dancing language to the limit to create a unique and exhilarating performance.
Entirely inspired by the work of Piazzolla — a prominent figure in contemporary Argentine music — this theatrical experience draws on his masterful blend of urban music and cutting-edge composing techniques. Piazzolla sought a provocative renewal of style through transforming sonority and rhythm, creating a sound and sensation recognized worldwide. In the 1960s and 70s, his revolutionary Nuevo Tango reshaped the tango landscape.
With live music from a sensational singer and on-stage band bringing Piazzolla’s passionate music to life, tango superstar and World Champion Germán Cornejo leads his superb company of 10 world-class dancers to capture the sultry nature of tango in this breath-taking performance. The show moves through different periods of Piazzolla’s work, transforming dance into a vivid portrait of the composer’s creative spirit. Deeply inspired by Piazzolla’s revolutionary style, Cornejo pushes his own tango language to its limits, blending roots with innovation, and the melancholic and surreal Buenos Aires with 21st-century sophistication.
With multiple sold-out performances across the globe, Cornejo’s spectacular choreography has captivated audiences for more than a decade through its unique mix of tradition and modernity. Celebrities including Simon Cowell, Marc Anthony, Mel B., Heidi Klum and Jennifer Lopez have praised his work.
“I cannot imagine that partnered dance gets any better than this! Argentine Tango at its very best.”
– DANCE TABS, LONDON
Born in Zárate, Buenos Aires Province, on May 31, 1986, Germán Cornejo began studying tango at age 10. By 15, he graduated from the Gatell Conservatory of Dance with a Master of Tango degree. He later expanded his training in classical and contemporary ballet, jazz and acrobatics, and began a Master of Choreographic Composition at the National Institute of Arts.
Legendary Tango Argentino ballerina and Broadway star Nélida Rodriguez, his “Artistic Godmother,” played a crucial role in his training, imparting both dance knowledge and the secrets of tango technique. Cornejo won the Gold New Talent prize in 2003 and the Competition of Gold Dance in 2005 on the popular TV show “Susana Gimenez.” That same year, he became World Tango Champion and went on to earn numerous accolades, including seven gold medals in Buenos Aires Province youth contests.
He has performed at renowned tango houses in Buenos Aires and danced at notable milongas such as La Viruta, Porteño and Bailarín. His talent has been
showcased on leading TV shows in South America and internationally, including “Susana Gimenez,” “Showmatch,” and “Por el Mundo.” Cornejo has collaborated with acclaimed productions and orchestras such as El Arranque Orchestra and Osvaldo Berlingeri’s Vamos al Tango and toured the world performing in venues such as the Shanghai Oriental Arts Center, Sydney Opera House and Luna Park Arena.
His appearance on the reality TV show “¡Q’Viva! The Chosen” brought further recognition, leading to his role as guest artist on Jennifer Lopez’s “Dance Again – World Tour.” He has coached contestants on the Latin American version of “Dancing with the Stars” and guided many students to top placements in the World Tango Championship. Currently, Cornejo is the director of choreography and lead dancer for the Tango Fire Company of Buenos Aires and leads his own Germán Cornejo Dance Company. He has created successful productions including Immortal Tango Tango After Dark and Wild Tango, leaving a lasting mark on the world of tango through his artistry, innovation and passion.
“Hubbard
Street
Dance Chicago ought to bottle itself as a cure for the ills of the era.”
— The New York Times
SAT | MAR 21, 2026 | 7:30PM Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts
The mission of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago is to awaken the human spirit through contemporary dance, envisioning a dance landscape that is relevant and accessible to all.
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago grew out of the Lou Conte Dance Studio at LaSalle and Hubbard Street in 1977, when Lou Conte gathered an ensemble of four dancers to perform in senior centers across Chicago. Barbara G. Cohen soon joined the company as its first executive director. Conte continued to direct the company for 23 years, during which he initiated and grew relationships with both emerging and established artists including Nacho Duato, Ohad Naharin, Lynne Taylor-Corbett and Twyla Tharp.
Conte’s successor Jim Vincent widened Hubbard Street’s international focus, began Hubbard Street’s collaboration with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and cultivated growth from within, launching the Inside/Out Choreographic Workshop and inviting Resident Choreographer Alejandro Cerrudo to make his first work.
Gail Kalver’s 23 years of executive leadership provided continuity from 1984 through 2007, when Executive Director Jason Palmquist joined
the organization. Glenn Edgerton became artistic director in 2009 and, together with Palmquist, moved this legacy forward on multiple fronts.
In 2021, former company dancer Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell was named artistic director, with the goal of continuing to diversify the company’s repertoire and ensemble while building on the company’s incredible legacy. Along with David McDermott, executive director since 2017, the company intends to expand audience reach and increase the local, national and global reputation of Hubbard Street.
For 48 years, Hubbard Street has been one of the most original forces in contemporary dance — bringing top choreographers and works to Chicago and beyond. Hubbard Street’s ever-evolving repertory, created by today’s leading choreographic voices, makes them a company dancers aspire to join and performance venues all over the world eager to present.
In Chicago, Hubbard Street performs 20 times a year and delivers renowned education programs in 50 classrooms across 17 Chicagoland schools — expanding their reach beyond traditional concert dance audiences, ensuring that everyone has access to world class dance and instruction.
Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell is the artistic director of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. Fisher-Harrell ascended to this role in 2021, after an extraordinary career as a professional dance artist and educator.
Fisher-Harrell was born in Baltimore, Maryland, and began her dance training at the Baltimore School for the Arts under the guidance of Sylvester Campbell and Stephanie Powell. She was an apprentice with the Capitol Ballet in Washington D.C. and a full fellowship student at The Ailey School. While a student at The Juilliard School, she was invited by Hubbard Street founder Lou Conte to join the main company at the age of 19, thus beginning her professional dance career.
After three seasons with Hubbard Street, Fisher-Harrell became a principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, under the direction of Judith Jamison. During her 13-year tenure with the company, Fisher-Harrell performed all over the world and was featured in the works of Alvin Ailey, Robert Battle, Talley Beatty, Ron K. Brown, John Butler, Donald Byrd, Ulysses Dove, George Faison, Rennie Harris, Geoffrey Holder, Judith Jamison, Louis Johnson, Alonzo King, Lar Lubovitch, Donald McKayle, Elisa Monte, Jennifer Muller, David Parsons and Dwight Rhoden.
Fisher-Harrell was invited to give a number of special performances throughout her career, including the White House State Dinner in honor of the President of Kenya, Mwai Kibaki, and the 12th Annual Kennedy Center Gala with Nancy Wilson and Liza Minelli.
Fisher-Harrell has led a distinguished career as a dance educator in her hometown of Baltimore where, since 2005, she has been a professor of dance at Towson University and has served on the faculty of the Baltimore School for the Arts. Her research and scholarship in continuing the Ailey legacy within the Towson University and Greater Baltimore community has resulted in the Ailey II residencies from 2011-2019 hosted by Towson University and the establishment of AileyCamp Baltimore at Towson University in 2014 where she served as director. Fisher-Harrell holds a Master of Fine Arts degree in dance from Hollins University and is an ABT ® Certified Teacher. As a scholar, her entry “Alvin Ailey” has been published by the Routledge Encyclopedia of Modernism.
In 1992, visionary leaders — the New Orleans City Council, Office of the Mayor, New Orleans Recreation Department (NORD) and NOBA — united with a shared goal: to touch the lives of every member of our community through dance. From this collaboration, the Center for Dance was born — a groundbreaking partnership ensuring that children, regardless of economic means, could access high-quality dance instruction.
Over the past 33 years, the Center for Dance has provided more than $10 million in tuition-free programming to over 35,000 participants through 86,000+ classes and activities. The program has earned national recognition, including the prestigious Coming Up Taller Award from the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities.
What began with just 30 students at one site now serves 2,000 youth and adults annually at up to 20 community locations. Each week, over 100 tuition-free classes — in ballet, hip hop, modern, jazz, conditioning, dance fitness and more — are taught by a professional faculty whose expertise and care inspire students of all ages. When a child has a need, the Center for Dance provides shoes, leotards and tights, ensuring there are no barriers to participation.
NOBA’s Pre-Professional Program offers advanced training for students ages 8+, including classes with world-renowned dancers and choreographers through the Master Artist Series at Lyons Rec Center and Tulane University. Students benefit from internships, advanced summer training locally, scholarships to national summer programs and free or reduced-price tickets through The Helis Foundation Ovation Program.
In 2008, NOBA expanded its reach at the request of NORD to offer dance fitness programs for participants ages 55+, which remain an essential part of weekly offerings. More recently, NOBA launched the Plié Program, an invitation-only initiative for motivated students ages 6–10 to deepen their ballet training and prepare for the Pre-Professional Program.
In St. Bernard Parish, the After-School Ballet Program — a partnership with Chalmette Refining, LLC and the St. Bernard Parish School Board — celebrates its 29th year, providing twice-weekly instruction in the state-of-the-art Chalmette High Cultural Arts Center, where students also perform.
Each season, participants ages 4–80+ perform for packed houses of family and friends in fully produced concerts at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall, New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA)’s Lupin Hall, and partner sites, complete with costumes, lights and professional stage management. Pre-Professional students also perform throughout the community and on prestigious national stages including New York City’s Joyce Theater and Plaza Hotel, The Kennedy Center and Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival — representing New Orleans with excellence.
As the Center for Dance celebrates 34 years, its mission remains steadfast: to provide life-changing access to dance for every member of the community, fostering creativity, confidence and connection — one class, one dancer and one dream at a time.
“NOBA is honestly the best program in New Orleans offered to children of all ages. I have been repeatedly amazed with how welcoming they are and how wonderful and inclusive of a community they have built around dance.”
-NOBA Parent
Year after year, NOBA continues its commitment to delivering inclusive, accessible and transformative dance and arts healing activities for over 2,000 participants ages 4-80+ through more than 5,500 free classes in a variety of dance forms. Ongoing collaborations with an expanded network of partners, such as the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORD), St. Bernard Parish School Board, New Orleans JCC, Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation, Dillard University, Tulane University, Xavier University, New Orleans Center for Creative Arts (NOCCA), Willow Charter School, The Leah Chase School and other area K-12 schools, continue to increase NOBA’s capacity to deliver positive health outcomes and support vibrant, creative communities. Since its inception over eight years ago, the Oscar J. Tolmas Dance for Parkinson’s Program has reached a total attendance of nearly 8,000 people through specialized, ongoing weekly classes and special outreach activities that empower people with Parkinson’s disease to creatively explore movement and live music, all in a safe, welcoming and fun environment. Classes are modeled after the Mark Morris Dance Group’s internationally renowned Dance for PD ® program and take place twice weekly during the mornings at two locations — Mondays in Metairie at Pontiff Gym and Wednesdays in New Orleans at the JCC. With over 10 million people worldwide living with Parkinson’s, we believe that continued work and advocacy in our region are critical, and that movement truly has the power to heal!
Following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, and at the request of NORD for the development of crucial programming for seniors, NOBA’s Senior Dance Fitness Program for ages 55+ launched in 2008. Currently offered twice a week at three centers, this tuition-free program includes stretching, cardio and dance set to fun music; dance workshops with visiting Main Stage artists; performance opportunities including the intergenerational The Nutcracker Suite ; social events; discounted tickets to Main Stage performances and more! For many participants, the Senior Dance Fitness Program is more than just fun. The program equips them with the ability to combat chronic health conditions through active measures such as reducing stiffness, arthritis pain, respiratory problems, blood sugar levels, blood pressure and losing weight. Others share that involvement in the program helps break isolation and form friendships and social support networks. NOBA’s relationships and residency work with Main Stage companies and artists regularly produce unique experiences for community members to be moved in body, mind and spirit. During the year, NOBA also offers weekly, open, drop-in ballet master classes taught by renowned guest artists for adults and teens on Wednesday mornings at the Lyons Rec Center. These sessions, along with additional master classes in various dance genres at multiple levels, provide participants with opportunities to enhance their dance skills or explore dance and movement for the very first time.
1. Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program participants and instructors perform as part of the Spring Concert at Tulane’s Dixon Hall PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
2. NOCCA students in a special Giordano Dance Chicago jazz dance master class presented by NOBA
PHOTO BY LUCY
3. Senior Dance Fitness class participants enjoy stretching at Morris F.X. Jeff Sr. Rec Center PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
4. The party scene of The Nutcracker Suite features Senior Dance Fitness participants who rehearse throughout the fall. PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
5. Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program participants during a class at the New Orleans JCC PHOTO BY MILLETTE LIN
6. Senior Dance Fitness participants perform in a Neighborhood Concert Series showcase at Lyons Rec Center PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
7. An open community modern dance master class led by Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s Michael Jackson Jr. at Lyons Rec Center PHOTO BY JEFF STROUT
8. Ronald K. Brown and Arcell Cabuag lead an open community movement class for all mobility levels at Lyons Rec Center PHOTO BY LUCY VANDERBROOK
“When you’re first diagnosed, you have no idea what to do...you must learn about medication and what to expect. This program is a more breathable, normal, human way of learning about the disorder you’re facing.”
– Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program Participant
“My nights have been better; my days have been freer of pain. My joints are nearly pain free. I’ve lost inches and move areas that have not been moved for forty years. The instructor is awesome! She cares for each participant. My life has changed for the better. I’m meeting people and loving it. It’s awesome to be a part of a group of individuals that are striving to improve their quality of life.”
– NOBA Senior Dance Fitness Participant
“NOBA and all the wonderful teachers put on an amazing summer camp for the kids — it is always so well organized, full of dance and other enriching activities, and ending with the most amazing performance featuring all the young campers. Consistently, the instructors challenge the dancers and provide a supportive and caring environment. I just can’t say enough, and I don’t know how to thank NOBA!”
- NOBA Parent
NOBA’s tuition-free programs for youth extend beyond the school year into a kaleidoscope of summer dance and fitness camps in partnership with NORD and other community organizations. Led by a faculty of passionate and highly qualified local and visiting artists, these summer sessions engage body and mind through health education related activities that foster life skills such as self-confidence, teamwork, discipline, focus and commitment. Motivated students ages 8 to 18 may also audition for NOBA’s summer intensives, which provide opportunities to study and perform with top dance artists. All participants of the Adventures in Dance and Intensives perform in Neighborhood Concert Series performances.
ADVENTURES IN DANCE DAYTIME CAMP for up to 40 children ages 7–11 of all experience levels is held for three and a half weeks in the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance Studio at Lyons Rec Center in June. This comprehensive, popular camp offers:
• Daily dance technique classes in various styles such as ballet, modern, hip hop, jazz, West African dance, Brazilian dance and more
• Educational activities in nutrition, health, dance history, music, craft arts, arts integration and literacy
• A children’s dance book for each participant to add to their home library
• Field trips and more!
JUNE MASTER ARTIST SERIES INTENSIVES by audition for ages 10-18 bring master artists from all over the country for week-long technique and repertory sessions.
TWO-WEEK JULY MORNING INTENSIVE by audition for ages 8-12 features a halfday introduction to the Summer Intensive experience for the young dancer. Students are challenged and engaged through dance technique classes in ballet, jazz and modern, or other dance styles along with additional sessions exploring choreography, dance history and more.
THREE-WEEK JULY AFTERNOON INTENSIVE , by audition for ages 10–18, features local and visiting guest artists and fosters an emphasis on building technical proficiency, confidence and self-expression through classes in conditioning, ballet, modern and other dance genres.
JULY EVENING MINI-INTENSIVE by audition for ages 8-12 features a seven-day introduction to the Summer Intensive experience for promising young dancers with a focus on building physical strength and flexibility, confidence, class etiquette and performance quality skills through evening dance technique classes in ballet, jazz and modern.
THREE-WEEK JULY DAYTIME INTENSIVE , by audition for ages 12-18, is NOBA’s headlining intensive for intermediate and advanced dancers and provides rigorous training with prestigious guest faculty, culminating in a fully produced concert, during which students have the unique opportunity to share the stage with visiting professional dancers.
NOBA’s year-round Master Artist Series transforms the lives of aspiring dancers in New Orleans, giving them unparalleled access to world-renowned choreographers and companies — all tuitionfree. From Giordano Dance Chicago and Ballet Hispánico to BODYTRAFFIC, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, EVIDENCE and more, these residencies open doors and inspire the next generation of dancers.
During the 2024-25 school year, NOBA welcomed several distinguished Master Artists in Residence including former Dance Theatre of Harlem stars Vince Collins and Donald Williams and former Armitage Gone! Dance soloist Emily Wagner. In January, Princess Grace Award-winning choreographer and former Ballet Hispánico principal Jamal Callender set excerpts of Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia on 18 of our Pre-Professional Program dancers, performed at NOBA’s Triple Crown Latin Dance Party at The Cabildo. He also created a new original work, Kaleidoscope , for nine Pre-Professional students.
In spring 2025, EVIDENCE founder and Artistic Director Ronald K. Brown and Associate Artistic Director Arcell Cabaug led an immersive residency, teaching excerpts of Why You Follow , originally created for Cuba’s Malpaso Dance Company. Students also studied with Diversity of Dance Artistic Director Fredrick Earl Mosley, whose work Celebration served as an exuberant finale to the annual Spring Concert.
NOBA’s summer intensives allowed students rigorous opportunities to deepen their training. In June, students worked with lead artists Eduardo Zambrana and Erina
“[Trey McIntyre] is one of the most gifted choreographers... the fact that the students got to work with him in such an intimate setting is really special.”
– Katie García, BODYTRAFFIC Company Dancer
Ueda from America’s original jazz dance company, Giordano Dance Chicago. In July, a star-studded roster of guest faculty—including artists Addison Ector and Johnathon Hart, Princess Grace Choreographer Award recipient Jae Man Joo, world-renowned choreographer Trey McIntyre and BODYTRAFFIC’s own Julie Opiel, Joan Rodriguez and Katie García— pushed students to new artistic heights. Through more than 60 hours of technique and repertory sessions, these young dancers gained a rare glimpse into the life and rhythm of a professional dancer.
“This program is so special, not just because it brings the best artists in the industry to these students at such a young age...[but because]
they allow the students to be here completely tuition-free,” shares BODYTRAFFIC’s Joan Rodriguez, who noted he and dance partner García had never seen a program like NOBA’s before. “I’m honored...I can be a little part of these young artists’ future.”
For the students, the impact is lasting. NOBA alum and rising SUNY Purchase senior and dance major, Kennedy Simon, credits her participation in NOBA’s programs with preparing her for her college dance career. “I was able to work with so many different artists and make those connections that are important in the dance world,” she reflects. Fellow alum Natalie Suter echoed this sentiment, adding, “Working with different artists and exploring different types of dance has made me more versatile and prepared me for this next step in my life and dance journey.”
The July intensive concluded on August 1 at NOCCA’s Freda Lupin Memorial Hall, with NOBA youth, alumni and guest artists performing the works they had built together over three weeks. These programs don’t just train dancers. They nurture leaders, build confidence and create lasting connections. As García puts it best, “What’s unique about NOBA is how much they truly care for their students and provide everything they need to succeed — on stage and beyond.”
“Having [access to] such relevant people in the industry at such a young age is really unheard of.”
– Katie García, BODYTRAFFIC Artist
Mackenzie Bell, originally from Prairieville, Louisiana, began her dance training at age three with Tari’s School of Dance in Baton Rouge, where she trained in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, lyrical and contemporary dance and competed from age nine through 12. She began training in modern styles such as Graham and Horton between the ages of 11-17 at the Episcopal School of Baton Rouge. After high school, she pursued and received a Bachelor of Arts in communication and dance from Tulane University, studying Limón and Cunningham while also exploring non-Western styles such as Brazilian samba and zouk. Choreography also became a passion, as she created three different pieces for Tulane’s Above the Oaks and Young Performers dance concerts, along with contributing choreography to the Newcomb Dance Company’s 2023 show, Odyssey. This is her second year as a NOBA teacher.
Bensinger earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance education from Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Arts in education from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. While there, she performed with the Maida Withers Dance Construction Company. She has taught dance at George Washington University, Foxcroft School, and was the Arts Team Leader at Willow Charter School. In 2007, she was voted Teacher of the Year at Willow. She began working with NOBA in 2012 and is a trained substitute teacher for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program.
“NOBA’s faculty is knowledgeable and welcoming. The approach to teaching is inclusive and celebrates diversity, which is important to us!”
– NOBA Parent
Delery Chauvin began her ballet training in 1986 under Kathy Gamble and continued her instruction at Ballet Hysell, where she has performed for over twenty years. She has danced with the Anne Burr Dance Company since 1993 and has also performed with Monique Moss in Drama Rama, Confederacy of Dances, Tsunami Dance Company, d’Project and many others. Chauvin has been a NOBA faculty member since 2006.
Bethani Pete Collins hails from Crowley, Louisiana. Her love of dance began at the age of two under Pamalor Joseph and Pasgwa Washington at PJ’s Dance/Art School. In 2011, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, and her training continued at The Ailey School in New York City, Urban Bush Women Summer Leadership Institute and American Dance Festival. In 2015, Collins began working alongside her mentor Dollie Eaglin (Rivas) at Audubon Charter School as well as teaching dance and cheer at Adams Middle School, Grace King High School and Alfred Bonnabel Magnet Academy High School. She was a principal dancer and choreographer with the premier culture bearer of New Orleans' doll-masking community, Millisia White's New Orleans Baby Doll Ladies. Collins is dedicated to enthusiastic and dynamic teaching as a means of creating and nurturing a lifelong love of the arts. She joined the NOBA faculty in 2015 and now serves as education coordinator.
April Dayok earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance from Point Park University. After relocating to New York, she danced with Becky Radway Dance Project, Counter Tides Dance, Mark Dendy Dance and Theater Projects, and worked with the Mark Morris Dance Group's Dance for PD ® program and for Pamela Quinn (dancer, Parkinson's patient and movement specialist for Parkinson's Disease patients). Dayok has toured nationally and internationally with Lightwire Theater and has performed locally with Mélange Dance Company and ELLEvate Dance. She began working with NOBA in 2017 and is an instructor for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program.
Aline Neves de Souza-Myers , a native of Brazil, holds a degree in physical education from the Universidade Castelo Branco and is a graduate from Escola Estadual de Danças Maria Olenewa of the Municipal Theatre of Rio de Janeiro. She performed and toured with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus as a dancer and an aerialist. De Souza-Myers has danced and choreographed for Komenka Ethnic Music and Dance Ensemble, performing nationally and internationally. She has served as the local rehearsal director for Center for Dance student projects with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Ballet Hispánico, Parsons Dance and Limón Dance Company and is the founding and lead instructor for the Senior Dance Fitness Program. A member of the Latinx Dance Educators Alliance, De Souza-Myers completed the prestigious School of American Ballet’s National Visiting Fellows Program in 2019-20, serves as the director for The Nutcracker Suite and Spring Concert productions and joined the NOBA faculty in 2007.
"What motivates me the most about teaching all of the different classes and ages that I teach is being with the people and feeding off of their energy...there’s just so much in this community that the more you give, the more you get back. For over a decade at NOBA, I’ve learned so much and been part of many extraordinary opportunities to grow as a person and a professional!"
– Aline de Souza-Myers with Senior Dance Fitness Participants
Caleb Dowden is a choreographer, educator and researcher from New Orleans. She is a 2021 graduate of the State University of New York at Purchase with
a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance. As a 2021 recipient of a Fulbright Independent research award from the U.S. Department of State/ J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board and a Fulbright Hay’s Fellowship with SUNY Purchase (July 2023), her choreographic work
and research has been presented and supported locally and internationally by the French Alliance of New Orleans, Le Centre (Benin Republic), Borna Soglo Gallery (Benin Republic), University of New Orleans, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, International Dance Festival of New Orleans, The New Ohio Theatre and the Maggie Allesee National Center for Choreography at Florida State University. As the director of Dow-Dance Company, Dowden produces choreographic work at the intersection of African history and culture with a unique vision of (re) connecting the African Diaspora with the African continent.
Escher is an associate professor of dance in the Newcomb Dance Program, Tulane Department of Theatre and Dance, and was the founder and artistic director of the Newcomb Dance Company for 35 years. Escher is a native of Baton Rouge, where she studied ballet with Elisa Minet Fuchs. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in dance from Florida State University and a Master of Fine Arts in dance from Temple University and is a Certified Movement Analyst (CMA). Escher has been instrumental in the development of the dance program at Tulane. She enjoys teaching in the Center for Dance Pre-Professional Program and is constantly inspired by the energy, enthusiasm and dedication of the students and staff.
Farkas began her dance training at the age of three in the Chicago suburbs. She has trained with a strong focus on ballet and jazz, with additional training in Cecchetti, contemporary, modern, musical theater and character. Farkas has performed lead roles in multiple Chicago-area shows, including the Schaumburg Nutcracker. She graduated from Tulane University with a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience with a double major in dance and a minor in psychology. Throughout her time at Tulane, Farkas performed
with Newcomb Dance Company in Odyssey , Lure and The Wild Woman . She additionally performed in Young Performers , Above the Oaks , Animal Crackers , and traveled to the MidAtlantic region’s American College Dance Association to perform Love and Marriage . She is excited to continue to share her passion for dance with NOBA this year as a faculty member.
Farrow began dancing at the age of three at the YMCA in Houston, Texas. She continued her training at the Virginia Dodd School of Dance in Surrey, UK, and the Terri Charlesworth Ballet Institute in Perth, Australia, where she was a member of the Youth Ballet of Western Australia. In 2019, Farrow began training at the New Orleans School of Ballet under the direction of Nikki Hefko, and she was a scholarship recipient at the Junior Philharmonic Society of New Orleans in 2020. She attended summer programs at Pacific Northwest Ballet, Miami City Ballet, Ballet West, Central Pennsylvania Youth Ballet and Carolina Ballet. Farrow furthered her training in the Graduate Program at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and as a Trainee with Carolina Ballet on scholarship. She has danced with Carolina Ballet and Marigny Opera Ballet, performing in works by George Balanchine, Amy Hall Garner, Cassi Abranches, Zalman Raffael and Diogo De Lima.
“I began my dance training with NOBA when I was 11 years old and was able to accomplish more than I could ever imagine. As an alumna, I am proud to share my passion and experiences with the next generation of aspiring dancers.”
EVERY YEAR, OUR FACULTY TIRELESSLY:
• Serve 2,000 youth and adults
• Lead over 5,500 tuition-free dance classes and activities
• Spend over 75,000 contact hours with participants of education programs
Kelly HaberHarpbegan
dancing in Monroe, Louisiana, with Twin City Ballet. Haber studied modern dance at Louisiana Tech University while earning her degree in elementary education and later received a Master of Education at Vanderbilt University. She danced with Encore Ballet Company in Madison, Mississippi. Haber taught all levels with Ballet Mississippi while serving as director of the lower school. For many years, she brought dance and movement regularly to The Blake, a senior living home. Haber joined the NOBA faculty in 2016 and is an instructor for NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program. Her additional education includes workshops and advanced training in Dance for PD ® at the Mark Morris Dance Center in Brooklyn, New York, as well as with Donna Newman-Bluestein to bring dance to people with Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
is a storyteller and performer originally from Baltimore, Maryland and began training at the age of five, competing as a teen with A Step Ahead Dance Company. After taking a seven-year hiatus from dance due to spinal fusion surgery, they returned to dance during college and studied environmental studies and theater at Loyola University of New Orleans. Now a member of Mélange Dance Company, Johnson-Bey has worked with well-known local choreographers such as Lauren Ashlee Messina and performed with Lelia Haller Ballet Classique and Ballet Hysell.
They are also a member of Nox Chroma, a local jazz cabaret troupe where they perform heels, Fosse and fusion-jazz styles. Johnson-Bey joined the NOBA faculty in 2025 and hopes to continue to grow her repertoire and inspire young Black dancers and dancers with chronic illnesses that anything is possible and all bodies deserve to dance.
White Lin acquired a Bachelor of Arts in anthropology from the University of New Orleans. She formerly danced with Sandra Organ Dance Company,
Michele Brangwen Dance Ensemble, Ballet Hysell and Ballet Apetrei. Lin received training from the Atlanta Ballet Center for Dance Education, Joffrey Ballet School, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School, NOCCA and Apetrei Dancenter and has taught at the New Orleans Dance Academy, Body Expressions Center of Performing Arts, the Conservatory of Ballet Aviv, Main Street Dance and Activity Center and Apetrei Dancenter. She began working with NOBA as a teaching artist in 2010 and now serves as education manager. Under Lin’s leadership, NOBA’s Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s Program was established.
Amalia Najera began her dance training at the Academy of Movement and Music in Oak Park, Illinois. She gained additional experience through her time with MOMENTA Dance Company, the Academy's resident dance company.
“Our instructors April and Kelly are professional and personable and work together seamlessly. Exercise is essential in Parkinson’s disease, and NOBA offers enjoyable, appropriate exercise for all that is tuition-free. Chronic illnesses are financially and emotionally costly. This program helps to alleviate these problems, especially bringing joy to attendees.”
– Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust Dance for Parkinson’s participant
Najera trained extensively in ballet, Graham, Humphrey, jazz and contemporary dance. She continued her education at Tulane University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in dance alongside a Bachelor of Science in exercise science. Najera also performed with the Newcomb Dance Company during her time there. With a lifelong foundation in performance and academic study, she brings a deep appreciation for the artistry and technique to her teaching.
Chloe Roberts
is a dancer and performing artist from New Orleans, Louisiana. She is a proud graduate of New Orleans Ballet Association’s Pre-Professional Program, where she trained intensively in a variety of styles with guest artists from across the country. She continued her training with Tulane University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in dance and a Bachelor of Science in psychology. Postgraduation, Roberts has toured nationally with Lightwire Theater and has recently completed a traineeship with Saint Louis Dance Theatre. She has also been active as a freelance artist, performing and presenting work at various festivals and residencies across the Midwest and South. This year, she is entering into her first season with Marigny Opera Ballet and is excited to be back in the city and teaching alongside her NOBA family.
Jaelyn Robinson began her formal dance training with NORD/NOBA Center for Dance at the age of 11. During this time, she was selected by top artistic directors for performances and projects both locally and abroad with acclaimed dance companies, such as Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Parsons Dance, Limón Dance Company, Ronald K. Brown/EVIDENCE and Dance Theatre of Harlem. Robinson acquired her Bachelor of Arts in public policy at Louisiana State University in 2021 and has since devoted her time to community projects and teaching. She began working with NOBA in 2022, and during the 2022-23 season, she served as outreach coordinator for NOBA’s “Championing Movement” Dance for Parkinson’s project, developing and implementing a series of community-building and outreach activities for under-resourced and rural areas in Southeast Louisiana.
“Dance is not about being perfect — it’s about being present. Every step you take is a chance to tell the world your story. I couldn’t be more grateful and honored to help the students of NOBA tell their stories.”
– Emily Wagner
Tai Ashley
Teamer began dancing at the age of two and has studied with the NORD/NOBA Center for Dance, Willow Charter School, NOCCA and New Orleans Dance Academy. She has trained with artists from Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Ballet Hispánico, Paul Taylor Dance Company and Complexions Contemporary Ballet. Teamer received a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Loyola University New Orleans and a master’s degree in arts administration from the University of New Orleans. She has received local and national training in movement programs for aging populations of all mobility levels and joined the NOBA faculty in 2013.
Emily Wagner (Master Artist in Residence), a Michigan native, trained under scholarships at Flint Youth Ballet, Virginia School of the Arts, American Ballet Theatre and coach Sabrina Pillars of New York City Ballet. Wagner’s dance career began to blossom when she received an invitation to dance with American Ballet Theatre’s (ABT) Studio Company. Since then, she has performed both nationally and internationally for some of the most celebrated ballet companies, including ABT, Ballet Austin, Eglevsky Ballet, Ballet Noir, Terra Firma Dance Theater, Pennsylvania Ballet and Ballet X, among others. Notable performances include Thomas Ades’ See the Music, Hear the Dance (2015) in London, England; Peter Breuer's Bolero in Salzburg, Austria with the Salzburg Ballet (2005); Movement Network of Amsterdam in the Netherlands
(2006); and dancing as the Vixen, with critical acclaim, in New York Philharmonic’s celebrated production, The Cunning Little Vixen (2012). In perhaps her most exciting moment to date, Wagner also performed in Monte Carlo for the Prince of Monaco in 2009. For her final 10 seasons, Wagner danced as a soloist with Karole Armitage’s Armitage Gone! Dance in New York City as a contemporary ballet artist and toured Europe. She also freelanced as a tango artist with the New Generation Dance Company. Additionally, she modeled dance wear for Sansha and KD Dance. In addition to her accomplishments on stage, Wagner also worked as the assistant choreographer for Harvard ART’s highly praised play, Marie Antoinette , and worked as rehearsal director during Kansas City Ballet’s spring season. She has also been teaching master classes nationally and internationally for several years and is a fully certified Pilates instructor, personal trainer and nutrition coach. She has a Bachelor of Arts in performing arts from Saint Mary’s College of California. Now living in Cuenca, Ecuador, Wagner is delighted to be sharing her love of ballet with the local community and running her growing online health and fitness business, Training in Transit.
She is currently dancing with La Compañia de Danza in Ecuador in addition to teaching master classes and workshops around the country. Wagner began working with NOBA in 2014 and is thrilled to be back teaching the talented youth of New Orleans.
Walker is a movement artist from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with a background of training and performing in several styles such as ballet, tap, hip hop, modern and jazz. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in dance and a Bachelor of Science in neuroscience from Tulane University and trained and performed with the Newcomb Dance Company. The combination of her passions led Walker to complete a Master of Science in dance science in London, England, at Trinity Laban Conservatoire, where she worked collaboratively with artists across the University and the city of London. She is currently a company member with Marigny Opera Ballet and joined the NOBA faculty in 2025.
“I am a NOBA alum; it has been the greatest joy to be able to work with the students as a faculty member. NOBA creates an environment where the students can push themselves and can grow, and it’s a huge privilege to be part of their journey now. ”
– Caleb Dowden
“I am extremely grateful to be part of such a great program. Each dancer is given a chance to blossom into a professional dancer from the age of 4 to 18. NOBA is a family who cares for the dancer both inside and out.”
– Bethani Pete Collins
(Master Artist in Residence), a Chicago native, became a member of Dance Theatre of Harlem in 1977 and ended a 27-year career with the company as premier danseur in 2004. Known for his versatility, Williams’ repertoire encompasses ballet, jazz, African and contemporary idioms. As a principal guest artist, Williams has performed with London’s Royal Ballet at Covent Garden and International Ballet Festival in Cuba and has starred in many other international galas. He has worked with Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Dances Patrelle and Fugate/Bahiri Ballet NY, creating critically acclaimed, original roles with them. Williams made his film debut in The Cotton Club , starred in numerous award-winning films, and has made television appearances and commercials. In 1998, Williams made his Broadway debut in the Tony Award winning musical Ragtime . In 2000, he was guest artist in the New York City Ballet/Dance Theatre of Harlem collaboration for the Diamond Project, dancing the principal roles in Robert Garland and Robert LaFosse’s Tributary and Balanchine’s Agon . He was featured in the national tour of The Phantom of
the Opera and with Phantom: The Las Vegas Spectacular at the Venetian Resort and Casino. Williams’ teaching credits include company teacher for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Dance Theatre of Harlem, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Celine Dion: A New Day, Nevada Ballet Theater and Contemporary West Dance Theater, among others; school instructor for Dance Theatre of Harlem, The Ailey School, Ballet Academy East (NYC) and The Rock Center for Dance (Las Vegas); and guest teacher for Marymount College, Florida State University and Tulane University, among others. He was also personal trainer for Keanu Reeves for the film Devil’s Advocate . Williams began working as a Master Artist-inResidence with the Center for Dance Pre-Professional Program in 2013.
WilliamsReese , a native New Orleanian, began her formal dance training at the NORD/ NOBA Center for Dance. She has also studied at New Orleans Dance Academy, NOCCA, Dance Theatre of Harlem and The Ailey School. WilliamsReese has worked with choreographers
“I hope to bring the idea to these dancers that what they bring to the performance is something special...one of the things Arthur Mitchell would always say to us is, ‘You’re representing something bigger than yourself!’”
– Donald Williams, pictured with Clifton Brown, Matthew Rushing and Earl Mosley at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater performance
including Daniel Catanach, Monique Moss, Nanette Ledet, Joya Powell, Rebecca Stenn and Eduardo Vilaro. In 2009, she received her Bachelor of Arts in natural science from Fordham University and received her master’s degree in arts administration from the University of New Orleans in 2024. As an educator, Williams-Reese focuses on the connection between the art of dance and the science of movement. She joined the NOBA faculty in 2012.
“I
have seen the incredible power of NOBA’s programs to positively impact the physical, mental, and social health of the youth of our city.”
– Alice Pascal Escher, pictured with students after a special pointe shoe fitting thanks to Mindy Carigee of Carmel’s Dance Wear
Welcome to BRAVO, the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization! We are thrilled to invite you to join our nearly 200 passionate and driven community leaders united by a shared purpose: to champion the extraordinary work of the New Orleans Ballet Association and ensure that dance continues to transform lives across our community.
BRAVO members play an essential role in NOBA’s success, giving time, talent and heart to support our tuition-free dance programs and world-class performances. While we certainly work hard, we guarantee an unforgettable, fun-filled experience no matter how you choose to participate. Whether transforming event venues with BRAVO’s signature decorative flair, ushering The Nutcracker Suite , providing hot meals for visiting Main Stage companies or selling special BRAVO Marketplace gifts at our performances, our members are the behind-thescenes magic-makers who help make it all possible.
Membership offers so much more than volunteer opportunities. BRAVO members enjoy beautiful events and gatherings year-round, with participation on committees that shape our efforts and invitations to celebrated fundraisers, including the now third annual hit sensation, The Triple Crown event package, and the glamorous Men and Women of Fashion’s Prix d’Elegance Luncheon and Fashion Show benefiting BRAVO.
We truly recognize and value the gift of each member’s time, energy and skills in all the ways they are shared with us.
This year, we kicked off the BRAVO season with a second annual members-only event at the Four Seasons’ Private Residences with special guest Linda-Denise Fisher-Harrell, the Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (HSDC) Artistic Director and former Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater principal dancer. On October 28, we welcome both members and nonmembers to embrace the spooky spirit of our festive Boo Bash luncheon — a perfect way to experience the camaraderie and fun before becoming a member yourself. In April, we will gather once more for a season wrap-up, celebrating the accomplishments and friendships forged throughout the year.
We hope you enjoy the artistry on stage tonight and consider joining this fantastic group of leaders, volunteers and advocates who help keep NOBA moving forward.
Please email bravo@nobadance.com or call the office at (504) 522-0996 x208 for more information.
Sincerely,
Marian Gibbs BRAVO President
Not
BRAVO extends its deep appreciation to the 2025-2026 Sustaining Members.
Deborah Alciatore
Cynthia Aucoin
Lou Bartolo
Penny Baumer
Susan Benedetto
Kathleen Bevis
Tiffa and Kerry Boutté
Shannon Brice
Elizabeth Broekman
Renee Carrere
Jacquee J. Carvin
Sandra Stage Chaisson
Jane Clayton, MD
Cheryl Cotten
Tony Currera
Henson Davis
Gayle B. Dellinger
Gail M. Dennis
Rosalyn Ditta
Yolanda Doucette
Marlene Duronslet
Kathleen Edmundson
Steve and Bethany Friedman
Marian and Larry Gibbs
Leon L. Giorgio, Jr.
Valerie Grubb
Laurie Guimont
Gwendolyn Hager
Carol V. Hall
Henrietta Hall
Jenny R. Hamilton and Ewell Smith
Alana Harris
Kathy R. Hebert
Sandra Thompson Herman
Kathryn Hill
Bernard M. Jaffe, MD
Andrea Jones
Millie and Robert Kohn
Lana Konrad
Mary Lakey
Saundra Lane
Cynthia L. LeBreton
Jamie M. Manders, DDS and James M. Riopelle, MD
Dr. and Mrs. Warren P. McKenna, Jr. (Gail)
Kathleen N. Mix
Dr. Jared and Mrs. Raven Palmer
Suzanne L. Parker
Cindy and Ron Paulin
Shalan Randolph
Dr. David Silvers
Marilyn Smith
Barbara G. Spencer
Betty Speyrer
R. Sonda Stacey
Paulette Stewart
Larry and Julie Stokes
Phyllis Taylor
LaVerne Toombs
Janée (Gee) Tucker
Anna and Anthony Tusa, Jr.
Gerri Valene
Toni Van Zandt and Richard Bachmann
Sylvia Vellino
Sunae Villavaso
Erica J. Washington
Pamela Williams
Karen Kraak Wood
Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Joan Zaslow
*as of Sept. 19, 2025
1: 2024 BRAVO Boo Bash Co-Chair Gerri Valene with Marshall Harris and Triness Kuhn. The trio created custom, one-of-a-kind decorative skeleton centerpieces that were auctioned at the event with proceeds supporting NOBA’s youth programming.
2: Ballet Hispánico Artistic Director & CEO Eduardo Vilaro with Sara Lewis and Sylvia Vellino. Vilaro was BRAVO’s special guest at the September 10 2024-25 BRAVO Season Kickoff Event in the Four Seasons’ Private Residence building. Vilardo led Latin dance style classes for members.
3: BRAVO members Deborah Alciatore, Dr. Blanca Maldonado, Gwendolyn Hager, and Virginia Eckholdt at the third event of the BRAVO Triple Crown fundraising package—a jazz brunch with the artists of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater followed by an exclusive performance by the company.
4: 2024 BRAVO Boo Bash Co-Chair Elizabeth Broekman, Metairie Country Club host Debbie Buchler, and BRAVO President Marian Gibbs. Buchler is generously hosting BRAVO at the Metairie Country Club again for the 2025 Boo Bash, and Broekman will be reprising her role as co-chair, joined by Val Grubb.
5: Saundra Lane and Jennifer Hayes at the 2024 BRAVO Boo Bash.
6: BRAVO President Marian Gibbs, NOBA Board Chair Gregory Curtis, and Anna Tusa, who generously hosted the BRAVO Spring meeting at her restaurant, Briquette.
7: 2024 BRAVO Boo Bash VIP table sponsors Sandra Chaisson, Deborah Alciatore, Tiffa Boutté, and Cindy Paulin.
8: BRAVO members Jacqueline Simon and Kat Edmundson dancing during Vilaro’s Latin dance lessons at the 2024-25 BRAVO Season Kickoff Event.
NOBA extends its sincere gratitude to BRAVO, the Ballet Resource and Volunteer Organization, and its dedicated members who, for over 35 years, have offered countless hours of hard work, creativity and boundless support to organize some of the community’s most anticipated and noteworthy fundraising events. With a highly requested encore of last year’s package debut, this past year BRAVO President Marian Gibbs and the event chairs mounted the second annual Triple Crown fundraiser.
The Triple Crown event package once again intertwined NOBA’s Main Stage with BRAVO’s signature fundraising elegance and style. The first event on January 31, supported by chair Marilyn Smith and her husband Glen, began on the third floor of the Cabildo with music by the Javier Olondo Trio, champagne and a live, intimate performance featuring a Ballet Hispánico duet and select Center for Dance students as a preview of the company’s New Orleans’ premiere of CARMEN.maquia. The reception continued on the second floor with delicious Spanish-inspired food, a specialty sangria and a salsa demonstration and dancing with the artists of Ballet Hispánico with entertainment by DJ Pipe Estrada.
Next was the Benefactors’ Dinner on February 18 hosted by the Windsor Court and chaired by Gregory Curtis and Charlotte Bollinger. The evening honored “A Triumvirate of Women Who Have Colored the NOBA World,” three of NOBA and BRAVO’s hardest-working, talented and collaborative event extraordinaires—Deborah Alciatore, Jacquee Carvin and Teresa Guzzetta. A
glamorous cocktail reception in Le Salon with Veuve Clicquot champagne was followed by a decadent three-course meal in the Chinoiserie Ballroom, which was set abloom with stunning tulip centerpieces by Stephen Sonnier and Dunn and Sonnier Antiques and Florals. The evening closed with an exciting live auction of gifts by the Windsor Court, Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry, Gallery Rinard, Charlotte Bollinger and Boysie Bollinger.
The final event treated patrons to a jazz brunch with the artists and leadership of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) and guest choreographers in the Mahalia Jackson Theater lobbies. 1718 Catering by Hyatt Regency New Orleans delivered a delectable brunch spread with Roots of Music’s young musicians setting the celebratory tone. After remarks by Chair Stephanie Burks, NOBA Board Chair Gregory Curtis, BRAVO President Marian Gibbs, AAADT Interim Artistic Director Matthew Rushing and choreographer Ronald K. Brown, a second line band led guests—with hand-painted umbrellas by Burks, Sandra Chaisson and Martine Linares in hand—into the theater for an exclusive performance by the company, featuring Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations and choreographer Ronald K. Brown’s Grace.
We look forward to another year of fun, innovative and enticing event experiences. We are continually amazed by BRAVO’s dedication to a standard of excellence and uniqueness in all that they do, which is critical to NOBA’s programs.
4.
5. (front) Jacquee Carvin,
Deborah Alciatore, Stephen Sonnier, Teresa Guzzetta
6. Phyllis Taylor, Henrietta Hall, Charlotte Bollinger
7. Pamela and Warner Williams
January 2026 – Milonga Dance Experience with Tango After Dark
February 2026 – The Benefactors’ Dinner, Windsor Court Hotel
March 2026 – Speakeasy Experience with Hubbard Street Dance Chicago
8. Monique Doucette, Breanna Bringier, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Rehearsal Director Ronni Favors, Martine Linares
9. Dr. Jay and Mrs. Raven Palmer, Elizabeth Broekman
10. Kat Edmundson, Cynthia LeBreton
11. Sandra Chaisson, Robert Chaisson
12. NOBA Center for Dance Students performing excerpts from Gustavo Ramírez Sansano’s CARMEN.maquia at the Cabildo
13. Mary and Jeff Lakey, Erica Washington
14. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater artists Solomon Dumas and Jacquelin Harris second lining into the theater with event attendees
15. Joan Zaslow, Ballet Hispánico Artistic Director & CEO Eduardo Vilaro
Front row (l to r): Roger Javier, Todd P. Murphy, Board Chair Lee Giorgio, Joey DiFatta, Murray Valene, Bobby Asaro
Back row (l to r): Leo Palazzo, Carl Panebiango, Kenny Rubenstein, Steven Friedman, James Schoen
Not pictured: Chad Berg, Jeff Chouest, Jr., Jeff Chouest, III, John Duck, Michael Hecht, R.K. Hoddinott, III, Robert E. Smith Lupo, Ralph Mahana, Kenneth E. Pickering, Henry Sullivan, Joe Young
Front row (l to r): Jennifer Amedee, Kat Edmundson, Melanie Cannatella, President Stephanie Burks, Laurie Guimont, Millie Kohn
Back row (l to r): Elizabeth Broekman, Tiffa Boutté, Marian Gibbs, Marilyn Smith, Holley Haag, Tammy O’Shea, Sandra Chaisson
Not pictured: Deborah Alciatore, Monique Gougisha Doucette, Rhonda Eckholdt, Deborah Harkins, Gail Barnes McKenna, Dottie Reese, Shelley Hoddinott Richardson, LaVerne Toombs, Anna Tusa
On April 13, 2026, one of the year’s most prestigious giving events takes its choice cause to the catwalk for the annual Men and Women of Fashion Prix d’Elegance Luncheon and Fashion Show in the Grand Ballroom of the Hilton New Orleans Riverside Hotel. Each year, the Men and Women of Fashion organizations honor 20 individuals in our community who exemplify unique personal style as well as excellence and generosity through business, civic and charitable endeavors. Additionally, two honorees — one man and one woman from the memberships of both organizations — are inducted into the Hall of Fame for their sustained contributions to Men and Women of Fashion and upholding the groups’ mission. Plus, established in 2020, the Men and Women of Fashion leadership may elect to choose one or two Presidents’ Choice Award recipients to spotlight distinguished individuals for their extraordinary achievements and contributions to the community.
This year’s event will be chaired by Marilyn Smith. She shares “I am honored to join in a long legacy of leaders whose commitment, service and cultivation efforts have marked this event as what is now one of the most premier luncheons of the spring season. It is our honor as Women and Men of Fashion to continue to present this opportunity to recognize community luminaries who not only stand out for their style, but for their impactful generosity, work ethic and creative problem solving. We cannot wait to applaud the honorees as they take their turn on the runway.”
From 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., an anticipated record-setting audience of more than 850 distinguished business and community leaders will gather for a champagne reception sponsored by Lee Michaels, followed by an elegant silent auction, a raffle presented by Lee Michaels and Rubensteins, a three-course luncheon and a performance by students of the Center for Dance. Women of Fashion Board Chair Rhonda Eckholdt
shares, “Our event showcases our Men and Women of Fashion recipients and a fantastic fashion show generously produced by Rebecca Nordgren of Chatta Box and Jeff Chouest of Jeff’s Haberdashery. While I always look forward to the fashion show, it’s also incredible to see past honorees of this award, spanning so many years, still supporting this event and stepping out in their finest.” Men of Fashion Board Chair Lee Giorgio adds, “As Emerson said, ‘Never lose an opportunity to see anything beautiful, for beauty is God’s handwriting.’ The Men and Women of Fashion believe in embracing this richness of spirit. We must create opportunities because they don’t just happen. ‘Generosity is giving more than we can and pride is taking less than we need,’ said Khalil Gibran. We thank our supporters who help the talented create beauty around us, for we are ‘restoring our souls’ while assisting NOBA in making a positive difference.”
For Women of Fashion President Stephanie Burks, the organization and its recipients’ five decade plus legacies speaks to their worthy partnership. She shares, “Like the timeless influence of fashion, NOBA has dedicated more than 50 years to serving our city’s families. On behalf of past honorees and our devoted committee, I’m proud to support their enduring legacy of community service through the arts. We celebrate with joy at this luncheon, and we are excited to advance the next generation of leaders though NOBA’s free youth dance and wellness classes and opportunities for advanced study.”
With signature New Orleans style and generosity, this year’s Prix d’Elegance Awards Luncheon will again showcase the Men and Women of Fashion’s fashion-forward brand of giving back. For more information about attending or donating to this event, please contact the NOBA office at 504-522-0996 x208 or fmartin@nobadance.com.
The New Orleans Ballet Association gratefully acknowledges the following contributions received between September 20, 2024, and September 20, 2025. Due to the limitations of space, we unfortunately are not able to acknowledge all supporters. Please know that each and every gift is equally appreciated. We make every effort to ensure an accurate listing. Should you find an error, please contact the Development Office at 504-522-0996 or fmartin@nobadance.com. Thank you!
*Contributions include the value of both cash and in-kind gifts.
PREMIERE CIRCLE ($100,000+)
Ballet Resource And Volunteer Organization (BRAVO)
Foxmor, LLC
Friends of NORD, Inc.
Lois & Lloyd Hawkins, Jr. Foundation
Louisiana Economic Development
Men of Fashion
Women of Fashion
PRINCIPALS ($50,000-$99,999)
Hyatt Regency New Orleans & 1718 Catering
Oscar J. Tolmas Charitable Trust
Windsor Court Hotel
UNDERWRITERS ($25,000-$49,999)
Adams & Reese, LLP
Chalmette Refining
The Helis Foundation
MaggieGeorge Foundation
BENEFACTORS ($10,000-$24,999)
Arts New Orleans
Bank of America Charitable Foundation
Capital One
Chatta Box Boutique—Rebecca Nordgren
The Greater New Orleans Foundation/GiveNOLA Day
Hilton Riverside New Orleans
Jeff’s Haberdashery—Jeff Chouest, Jr. and the Chouest Family
Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry
Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism
Newcomb Dance Program, Tulane University Department of Theatre and Dance
New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund sponsored by Councilmember Freddie King, III
New Orleans Theatre Association
Ogletree Deakins
The Pamela and Warner Williams Charitable Fund
Pan-American Life Insurance Group
Patrick F. Taylor Foundation
Renaissance Publishing, LLC and St. Charles Avenue Magazine
RosaMary Foundation
LEADERS ($5,000-$9,999)
Angel Wings Foundation
Betty & Ira Kohn Foundation—Robert and Millie Kohn
Carl E. Panebiango Family Foundation
Davis Phinney Foundation
Entergy Charitable Foundation
Exxon-Mobil Fund of the Greater New Orleans Foundation
Find Your Light Foundation
The Gayle and Tom Benson Charitable Foundation
Goldring Family Foundation | Woldenberg Foundation
Mayor’s Office Of Cultural Economy
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc.
Palazzo Law Firm—Dana and Leo Palazzo
Mrs. Paige Royer and Mr. Kerry Clayton through Baton Rouge Area Foundation
Town & Country Bridal and Linen Jolie Bridal— Mandy Wienhusen
Tree Masters & JL Studio Designs
PARTNERS ($2,500-$4,999)
American Heart Association
Candis Camarigg Art
Celebrate Canal!
Chalmette High School & The St. Bernard Parish School Board
Cox Mobile
Terry and Lynette DuFrene through Schwab Charitable
Dunn & Sonnier Antiques and Flowers
Entergy
First Horizon Bank
HYATT House New Orleans/ Downtown
Integrated Logistical Support, Inc Engineering — Iam and Janée M. Tucker
Jefferson Parish Department of Parks and Recreation
Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA
New Orleans Center for Creative Arts
New Orleans & Company
Rubensteins
Strout Photography
Taco Bell-Hamer and LeBlanc Family
ASSOCIATES ($1,000-$2,499)
Alvendia, Kelly & Demarest Law Firm
Aucoin Hart Jewelers
Bank of America Matching Gift Program— R.K. Hoddinott, III and Shelley Hoddinott Richardson
Belle Chasse Marine Transportation, LLC—
Lana Konrad and Bill McCabe
Biomedical Concepts—Fred Wienhusen
Blessings and Hope Fund managed by The Pinebelt Foundation
Catholic Foundation of South Louisiana through Charlotte Bollinger
Centerbridge Foundation—Sylvia Vellino
Charles and Cathy Glaser and Family Donor Advised Fund
El Tiempo
Faustermann Designs
FELLOW - Menswear
Fidelity Bank
Gallery Rinard
Hailey McNamara Law Firm
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Louisiana
Hispanic Heritage Foundation of New Orleans
The Hornbrook Law Firm
J. Edgar Monroe Foundation
Jim and Betty Karam Donor Advised Fund through the Raymond James Charitable Endowment Fund
KGLA Radio-Tropical 105.7
Kilby Suits
Krewe of Barkus
Maurice French Pastries
Michael and Megan Manning through Schwab Charitable
New Orleans City Council-Caesars New Orleans Casino
Community Support Grant Program, Councilmember
Freddie King, III & Councilmember Eugene Green
New Orleans Saints
Telemundo – New Orleans
Van der Linden Family Foundation
WWNO New Orleans Public Radio-89.9
SUSTAINERS ($500-$999)
English Turn Golf and Country Club
Munholland Methodist Church
Omega Production Resource, LLC
The Roosevelt Hotel
West London Btq & Le Marais
CONTRIBUTORS ($100-$499)
Austin’s Seafood and Steakhouse
Basic’s Underneath Fine Lingerie | Swim & Gym
Breaux Mart
Carubba Engineering
Chateau Golf and Country Club
Chevron Matching Employee Fund—Lauren Buggs
Commander’s Palace
Cypress Lakes Country Club
Desi Vega’s Steakhouse
The District Lounge
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant
Ella Bartlow Jewelry
Ellen Macomber Fine Art and Textiles
Estella’s Too
Exterior Designs, Inc.—Beverly Katz
Fat Cat Flowers
GW Fins
Jefferson Performing Arts
Latter Hospitality—Tujague’s Restaurant, The Bower, Birdy’s
Le Petit Theatre de Vieux Carre
Lieschen
LOFT18 Metairie
Longue Vue House and Gardens
Mikimoto Japanese Restaurant
Morrow Steakhouse
National WWII Museum
New Orleans Museum of Art
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Premium Parking New Orleans
Ralph Brennan Restaurant Group
Ramsey’s Diamond Jewelers
Republic National Distributing Company
Rich’s Car Wash
Rizzuto’s Prime
Stag Cummins Fund
SUE SARTOR
Tatum’s Toppers Events & Décor
Tsunami Sushi New Orleans
Weinstein’s
NOBA extends its gratitude to its generous donors. The following contributions were received between September 20, 2024, and September 20, 2025. Due to the limitations of space, we unfortunately are not able to acknowledge all supporters. Please know that each and every gift is equally appreciated. We make every effort to ensure an accurate listing. Should you find an error, please contact the Development Office at 504-522-0996 or fmartin@nobadance.com. Thank you! *Contributions include the value of both cash and in-kind gifts.
Stephanie and Ryan Burks
Joel T. and Sandra Chaisson, II
Gregory Curtis
John (Gregor) M. Fox and Camille Patti
Larry and Marian Gibbs
Terence and Henrietta Hall
Jenny R. Hamilton and Ewell Smith
Hon. Henry Lambert and Mr. Carey Bond
Cynthia L. LeBreton
Jeffrey Pounds
Glen and Marilyn Smith
Murray and Gerri Valene
Warner and Pamela Williams
Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Joan Zaslow
($5,000-$9,999)
Deborah Alciatore
Dottie Belletto
Charlotte Bollinger
Tiffa and Kerry Boutté
Lisa Beyer
Nancy D’Amico
Monique and Jason Doucette
Peggy and Jay H. “Timber” Floyd, Jr.
Susan L. Krinsky
Alden J. and Rhesa McDonald, Jr.
Conny Willems
($2,500-$4,999)
Mark R. Beebe—Adams & Reese, LLP
Chad and Vanessa Berg
David Boudreaux, MD and Richard Nesbitt
Elizabeth Broekman
Jacquee Carvin
Barrett Conrad
Tony Currera
Marie Dahleh, PhD and Albert Weeks
Gayle Dellinger
Joseph DiFatta, Jr.
Rosalyn Ditta and Rusty Gaudé
Annette Dowdle
Krystle Ferbos Duplessis
Sandra Fank
Scott and Elizabeth Frost
Steve and Bethany Friedman
Leon L. Giorgio, Jr.
Cathy Green
Valerie M. Grubb
Teresa Guzzetta
Dr. Neil Jolly and Mrs. Rena Jolly
Dr. Angela M. King and Ms. Gennice King
Sunni and Darrick LeBeouf
Dr. Blanca Rosa Maldonado
Dr. Warren and Mrs. Gail McKenna, Jr.
Dr. Jared and Mrs. Raven Palmer
Gregory and Betty Speyrer
PATRONS ($1,000-$2,499)
Mindy Nunez Airhart
Jennifer Amedee
Bobby Asaro
Margarita Bergen
Henry Bernstein
Walda Besthoff
Donald “Boysie” T. Bollinger
State Senator Gary M. Carter, Jr.
Denise G. Clark
Melody Clark
The Family of Jacquelyn Brechtel Clarkson
Cheryl Cotten
Ryan Daul
Richard DiCarlo
Yolanda Doucette
Dorothy Duval
Dr. Gregory and Mrs. Rhonda Eckholdt
Kat Edmundson
Raymond and Marja Falk
Mary Frances Gardner, MD
Denise Gassiot
Chad Graci
Laurie Guimont
Gwendolyn Hager
Dr. Byron Hammer
Deborah Harkins
Kathleen Hebert
R.K. Hoddinott, III and Shelley Hoddinott Richardson
Bernard M. Jaffe, MD
Roger and Christine Javier
Jane Kahn
Edward Kass, III
Bill Kenny
Kris Khalil
Lenny Kopowski
Mary Lakey
Mickey P. Landry
Joyce W. Laporte
Sara Lewis
Dr. Paul and Mrs. Leslie Lux
Stephen and Ellen Manshel
Dr. Robert and Mrs. Beverly Matheney
Max Moreno
Kay Oplinger
Kathy and Paul Pastorek
Darren and Chanttell Patin
Michael Phillips
Dr. Stephanie Repasky
Rodolfo and Elizabeth Revuelta
Stephen Sonnier
Carol Stone
Pedram Taheri
Newton C. Thomas, CEO
Hon. Janis van Meerveld
Toni Van Zandt and Richard Bachmann
Sylvia Vellino
Voris Vigee
Erica J. Washington
Michele Wink
($500-$999)
Lisa D. Alexis
Laura Badeaux
Judge Roland Belsome
Donna Kay Berger
Roslyn Bergeron
Robin and Scott Borne
Liam Bouchier
Debbie Buchler
Sheila Burns
Robert Chaisson
Carol and Jeff Chouest, Jr.
Dr. Chuck and Mrs. Lorraine Cucchiara
Marlene Duronslet
Virginia Eckholdt
Cathy Glaser
Valarie Hart
Floyd and Ida James
Tricia Lincoln
Stan and Laurie Miller
Suzanne L. Parker
Hon. Kern and Mrs. Dottie Reese
Matt and Cam Rinard
Dr. Wanda Robinson
Alfred and Sonda Stacey, IV
Kayne and John Stewart
LaVerne Saulny Toombs
A.J. and Anna Tusa
Raymond and Lisa Washington
D. Brent and Lele Wood
($250-$499)
Alvin R. Albe, Jr. and Virginia Boulet
Natasha Alveshire
Cynthia Aucoin
Aimee Aysenne
Penny Baumer
Lisa Baynham
Isabella Beninate
Jo Ann Bohm
Norma Bordelon
Dianne Breaux
Pamela Godfrey Cali
Melanie Cannatella
John and Lilli Colby
Terri Santa Coloma
Marilyn V. Dittmann
Bonnie Eubanks
Elizabeth Furlong
Betsie Gambel
Joanna Giorlando
Meredith Griffin
Carol V. Hall
Jennifer Hayes
Diane Hollis
Kathryn Hill
Heather Horan
Saundra Lane
Letizia LeCocq
LeeAnne Leopold
Sidney Levin
Martine Chaisson Linares
Kay McArdle
Sue McNabb
Jamie Moreau
Faith Peperone
DaMonica Pierson
Dr. Kenneth and Mrs. Beverly Sakauye
Dr. Janet Schmid
Mark Schneider and Michelle Charvet
Jacqueline Simon
Adam Stierwald
Ginger Touzet
Fern Watters
Hon. Vanessa G. Whipple
Jeanne Williams
($100-$249)
Alexandra Anzalone
Jornea Armant
Laura Badeaux
Susan Benedetto
Ernest and Lila Beyer
Bonnie Bobman
Maria Bonilla
Elsie Bouchette
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Guy Brierre
Jeanetta Bryant
Jennie Bryant
Carolyn Bufkin
Kathy M. Christian
Dr. Jane Clayton
Kathy Clifton
Karen N. Coaxum
Dr. Marcia Davila
Ellen Dornier
Ronald Durnford
Janis Eckert
Marguerite Knight Erwin
David Estes, Jr.
Nicole Ferrier
Bilbo Foldes
Carolyn Fortino
Wanda W. Fulton
Susan Gundlach
Shaneika Dabney Henderson
Russ Herman
Benjamin Hicks
Jennie Kasten
Cheryl Lemoine
Andrea Lestelle
Thomas Loehn
Salvador Longoria
Pat Macaluso
Jessica Marasco and Derrick Illes
Jane Mentz
Edna Moore
Connie Nagim
Kimberly Navarre
Dr. Lynne Neitzschman
Debra and Wayne Neveu
Nell Nolan and Robert Young
Rita Olmo
Michele Orr
Tammy O’Shea
Chris and Cheryl O’Sullivan
Pauline Parquet
Mayra Pineda
Melisa Rey
Sandra Robert
Helen Schneidau
Mary Sigrist
Kathy Singleton
Lynn Skelding
Barbara Spencer
Mike and Kim Sport
Michael Stag
Sheila Thomas
Kathy Torregano
Maria León Vallejo
Brian Allee Walsh
Jamie Washington
Simone Washington
Kathy Weidner
Alan and Cathie Weinstein
Patricia Wheelahan
Jeaneen White
Elizabeth Williams
Rashain Williams
Sharonda Williams
Erin Wolfe
Loyce Wright
Constance Cowart Young
Donnell Zeringue
COMMEMORATIVE GIVING
In Honor of Deborah Alciatore
Donna Kay Berger
Wanda W. Fulton
In Memory of Shirley K. Boudreaux
Joel and Sandra Chaisson, II
In Honor of Stephanie Burks
Sheila Burns
Loyce Wright
In Honor of Jacquee Carvin
Donna Kay Berger
Wanda W. Fulton
In Honor of Sandra Chaisson
Mr. and Mrs. Stan Miller (Laurie)
In Memory of Hon. Jacquelyn Brechtel
Clarkson
Ana Gershanik
In Honor of Roz Ditta
Peggy and Jay H. “Timber” Floyd, Jr.
In Honor of John Duck
Anonymous
Atty. Gregory Ernst
In Honor of Teresa Guzzetta
Donna Kay Berger
Wanda W. Fulton
In Honor of Kelly Haber
Andrea Lestelle
In Honor of Jenny Hamilton and Jon Teeuwissen
Jeffrey Lee and Susan Moore
In Memory of Janie Hunt
Anonymous
In Memory of Patricia Gail West Moore
Jeffrey Lee and Susan Moore
Suzanne L. Parker
In Honor of Shula Strassfeld
Anonymous
In Memory of Sandra Trout Wilson
Jenny Hamilton
Suzanne L. Parker
*Donations received between September 15, 2024, and September 20, 2025
The Nutcracker Legacy Fund is dedicated to the acquisition and maintenance of the Nutcracker costumes, sets and props used annually by the over 100 participants of NOBA’s The Nutcracker Suite production. With our patrons’ support, NOBA is able to replace tattered costumes for several scenes and ensure that our participants’ costumes stand the test of time, worn for years to come to transform our dancers into their legendary roles like Clara, the Rat King (or Queen!) and the Sugarplum Fairy.
Land of Sweets — $500-$999
Charlotte Bollinger
Gayle Dellinger
Marian and Larry Gibbs
Valerie Grubb
Jenny Hamilton
Cynthia LeBreton
Sugarplum — $250-$499
Lisa Beyer
Tiffa and Kerry Boutté
Tony Currera
Joanna Giorlando
Dr. Lawrence and Mrs. Joan Zaslow
Snowflake — $100-$249
Deborah Alciatore
Jornea Armant
Ernest and Lila Beyer
Stephanie and Ryan Burks
In memory of Louise E. McLendon
Jacquee Carvin
Sandra Stage Chaisson
Kathy M. Christian
Lorraine K. Cucchiara
Tammy O’Shea
Suzanne L. Parker
Larry and Pam Pickett
Melisa Rey
Dr. Janet Schmid
Sonda Stacey
Janée M. Tucker
Kathy Weidner
Holiday Tree — $75-$99
Allie Shapiro Dandry
Lesly Davi
Marilyn and Glen Smith
Candy Cane — $50-$74
Cynthia Aucoin
Marlene Duronslet
Wanda Fulton
Millette Lin
Dr. Warren and Mrs. Gail McKenna, Jr. In honor of Nicole Williams
Holiday Bow — $25-$49
Natasha Alveshire
Dorothy Banish
El-Lenor Barbre
Walda Besthoff
Nicholas Bijou
Marie Dahleh, PhD
Colette Delacroix
Felizitas Devine
Virginia Eckholdt
Nicole Ferrier
Candice Forest
Courtney Gervais
Martine Chaisson Linares
Kaisha Lymon
Jessica Marasco
Beverly Matheney
Charlena McKnight
Jamie Moreau
Candice Mouton
Kathy Pastorek
Chanttell Patin
Cindy Paulin
Leslie Petty
Dr. Wanda Robinson and Jaelyn Robinson
LaVerne Toombs
Fay Wartelle
Erin Wolfe
Karen Kraak Wood
Holiday Stocking — $10-$24
Janice Abadie
Evelyn Adams
Susan Benedetto
Sheena Blackman
Ashley Bowen
Disheika Brown
LaKenya Collins
Cheryl Cotten
James and Amina Dearmon
Bradley Feichter
Lillian Funke
Rosa Garcia
Jarrett Lemieux
Erick Lewis
Arlene Manguno
Brid McDonnell
Max Moreno
Sophie Mueller
Kimberly Navarre
Raven Palmer
Antoinette Pete
Daniel Peton
Darlene Thomas
Vanessa G. Whipple
Carmen Windham
*Donations received between September 16, 2024, and September 29, 2025.
Your investment in NOBA’s programs directly touches the lives of all those whom we serve. With your support, we will continue (1) to fulfill our vital role in the international dance community by presenting, producing and commissioning dance and providing resources to artists and (2) to sustain our over 5,500 annual tuition-free, nationally awarded and internationally recognized education, health and wellness programs and activities by a phenomenal faculty of local and guest artists.
$20 will supply a pair of ballet or jazz shoes to a child
$50 will provide a student’s full uniform of leotard, tights and shoes
$250 underwrites the cost of a new costume for The Nutcracker Suite
Become a NOBA Monthly Sustainer and join the growing number of supporters who have generously decided to make easy, convenient and automatic monthly gifts of any amount that provide a sound foundation for each season and for NOBA’s future.
Join the Presenters’ Circle Club and help us keep world-class dance on New Orleans’ stages. Presenters Circle Club includes those donors who contribute a minimum of $1,000 toward the annual campaign, separate from other designated funds or campaigns. Members receive VIP parking and invitations to exclusive events as well as the VIP Wine Intermission Receptions at Main Stage performances at the Mahalia Jackson Theater.
Whether a gift in memory of a friend or a loved one or a commemoration of a birthday, anniversary, graduation or an important milestone, these gifts are a wonderful way to pay tribute to those whom we hold dear. NOBA will send a beautiful card to the honored person or family notifying them of your thoughtfulness.
The Ballet Resource And Volunteer Organization is a powerful force of nearly 200 who “FUN-raise” for NOBA. Find out how you can become involved on pages 46-49.
Help us reduce our costs through the donation of non-cash gifts delivered in the forms of goods, services or expertise. Some examples include office supplies; bottled water and healthy snacks for students; art, jewelry and accessories, or restaurant gift certificates for silent auctions or raffles at BRAVO’s fundraising events and pro bono services such as catering, photography or graphic design.
Demonstrate your company’s commitment to the community and boost your marketing efforts with a winning sponsorship. NOBA offers a variety of special benefits for our corporate partners, and opportunities are available at many levels.
The impact of your gift to NOBA may be doubled or possibly tripled! Many companies sponsor matching gift programs that will match any charitable contributions made by their employees, retirees and/or spouses.
A planned gift represents the ultimate gift from one’s estate, including simple bequests in one’s will, charitable remainder trusts, unitrusts, charitable lead trusts and gifts of insurance. These gift vehicles offer attractive benefits that might include an income for life for the donor or a designated beneficiary, a significant charitable tax-deduction or the ability to reduce the taxable portion of one’s estate while having the satisfaction of making a charitable gift. NOBA recommends you speak with your financial advisor to develop the best method that will complement your estate’s needs.
“At Chalmette Refining we believe in educating the workforce of the future. The arts and, specifically, dance are an important element in a well-rounded education. That is why we are proud to continue our sponsorship of the free after school dance programs in Chalmette, which began in 1995, and in Algiers at the NORD Cut-Off Recreation Center.”
Your gift can keep giving through major gifts in your name to a capital campaign for bricks and mortar, commissions of new artistic works, dedicated scholarships for youth programs and investments in NOBA’s endowment held at the Greater New Orleans Foundation.
NOBA gratefully accepts gifts of stock valued at any amount. Often times, a gift of appreciated stock may significantly reduce your capital gains tax while creating a larger charitable deduction.
Facebook makes it easy to support NOBA anytime you browse. Simply visit facebook.com/nobadance and click “Donate.” You can also create your own Fundraiser for Friends or start a giving campaign on your own page for NOBA.
Please help us continue our work and efforts to make sure that dance remains a vital part of the cultural fabric of this great city. For more information or to make your donation, contact us today at 504-5220996x208 or fmartin@nobadance.com.
