Ballet X: How Do You Go From Good to Great
As a former principal dancer, director, and researcher, I have dedicated my career to celebrating the profound impact of ballet on individuals and communities. Few organizations embody this mission more vividly than BalletX, whose innovative approach has been rightfully celebrated by Forbes. Their commitment to fundraising, gratitude, and giving back underscores the transformative power of dance.
A Vision Rooted in Gratitude
BalletX, under the visionary leadership of Artistic Director Christine Cox, demonstrates a profound sense of gratitude toward its community and supporters. This gratitude manifests in their ambitious and creative productions, which bridge tradition and innovation. BalletX also stands out for its honesty and transparency in defending values of excellence, integrity, and gratitude at both the personal and community levels.
Dance is not merely an art form; it is an expression of shared human experience and a way to give back to the world. Forbes has highlighted BalletX’s dedication to connecting with audiences through authentic storytelling, a testament to their appreciation of the role that art plays in society.
Fundraising: Building a Sustainable Future
The sustainability of any arts organization lies in its ability to innovate both on and off the stage. BalletX excels in this domain. As Forbes reports, their partnerships with corporate giants like Tesla and Adobe have provided a stable financial foundation. These collaborations, rooted in mutual respect and shared values, ensure that the company can offer competitive salaries to its artists while maintaining creative freedom.
Their digital platform, BalletX+, launched during the pandemic, exemplifies forward-thinking fundraising. With over 50,000 subscribers, it has created an additional revenue stream while making their art accessible to global audiences. This pioneering approach inspires hope for a resilient future in the performing arts.
The Power of Dance to Give Back
BalletX’s ethos extends beyond the stage, as their "Dance Forward" initiative demonstrates. By offering free workshops, scholarships, and mentorship programs, they provide opportunities to individuals who might otherwise never experience the transformative power of dance. Forbes has praised this commitment to inclusivity, noting the profound impact it has on underserved communities.
Honesty and transparency are at the heart of these initiatives. BalletX ensures that every step they take reflects their commitment to defending and promoting the values of integrity, gratitude, and excellence. These efforts showcase the power of dance not only as an art form but as a force for societal good.
Dance has the power to heal, unite, and inspire. BalletX exemplifies this truth, using its platform to foster social change and ensure that art remains a force for good.
Lessons for the Arts World
The success of BalletX underscores the importance of gratitude as a driving force in the arts. Their ability to balance financial sustainability with a genuine commitment to community engagement offers a model for other organizations. Forbes’ recognition of their efforts reminds us all of the immense potential of dance to make a difference.
For those in the dance world, the lesson is clear: prioritize gratitude, invest in creative fundraising, and give back to the communities that support you. Ballet, as we often say, is not just about movement—it is about connection.
Looking Ahead
As we all continue our advocacy for dance, I find immense inspiration in BalletX’s journey. Their story, as chronicled by Forbes, reflects a future where ballet is not only preserved but transformed into an accessible, impactful, and sustainable art form.
The work of BalletX reminds us of the enduring relevance of dance in our lives. The challenge for us all is to embody their spirit of gratitude, innovate with purpose, and ensure that dance remains a powerful force for good in the world.
FORBES (Interview with the Artistic Director Christine Cox)
