By: Deedee El bego
On Wednesday, October 22, The Joffrey Ballet’s Women’s Board hosted the inaugural JoffreyNEXT fundraising event at the Lyric Opera House. The event was a big hit and raised a grand total of $180,000. This money was raised for funding aspiring dancers at Joffrey and is one of the reasons the Ballet is what it is today. The ongoing support that they receive from patrons and their producing sponsors allow for the space to continue showcasing the incredible talent of Joffrey’s Students.
Attendees included Farissa Knox, Jessica Jecmen, James Crawford and Kyoko Crawford.
JoffreyNEXT featured performances by Community Engagement students and the Grainger Academy. Performances included This Town by Community Engagement Program Coordinator Carly Liegel, Woman by Teaching Artist Michelle Skiba, and For Mr. Ramsey Lewis by 2024 Winning Works Choreographer Houston Thomas. Attendees enjoyed performances alongside the refreshing cocktails and bites provided by Jewell Catering. A raffle for luxurious prizes also got the spotlight with many attendees participating in the raffle.
Houston Thomas (Left), and Ashley Wheater MBE (Right).
Next everyone tuned in to an inspirational discussion between Mary B. Galvin, Artistic Director, Ashley Wheater MBE, and 2024 Winning Works Choreographer Houston Thomas. Their discussion was on Thomas’s journey through the Community Engagement, Academy, and to Company pipeline. The 215 attendees warmly celebrated the incredible talent of Joffrey’s students. This event was truly one that highlighted how beloved the Joffrey ballet is.
Joffrey Students posing together for pictures at the event.
Patti Eylar and Ashley Wheater
Dana Hokin Garvey with Ashley Wheater
Jessica Jacmen and Kyoto Crawford with guests at JoffreyNext
Grainger Academy Students and Houston Thomas
Melinda Lagrange, Sarah Geocaris, Karen Peters, Bethany Florek
John Chapman Jane Chapman Greg Cameron at JoffreyNext
