BalletMet Columbus will be hosting “Dance With the Dancers Tour 2010” at the Lifestyle Communities Pavilion Feb. 27.
The annual event offers participants the opportunity to dance and socialize with members of BalletMet Columbus. Attendees can also place bids in several auctions, eat at various food stations set up around the venue and drink at an open bar. Music will be provided by DJ Mark Dantzer.
“The biggest draw is the fact that people can get to know our dancers,” said Barbara Markus, the assistant development director for BalletMet.
“Our dancers are incredible on stage, but this event shows how fun they can really be. It’s not an intimidating environment at all.”
The theme for the event is focused on BalletMet’s season-closing production “American Legends: Johnny, Sammy and Stevie” that will run at the Capitol Theatre from Apr. 23 to May 1, celebrating the works of Johnny Cash, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Stevie Wonder. Those attending the event are encouraged to dress up as music icons.
Food and drinks for the event will be provided by Cameron Mitchell Catering Co., Rusty Bucket, Eggfast, Ol’ Bag of Nails and Jeni’s Ice Cream. Among the items up for auction are vacation packages to Colorado and Ecuador, an Easton Town Center shopping spree and golf packages. Mukha Salon will be attending the event to offer airbrushed tattoos to those in attendance.
“Getting the chance to dance with us is something people get excited about,” said performer Adam Hundt, who is in his sixth season with BalletMet. “People are surprised at how open we are and how much we get down on the dance floor.”
This will be the sixth year of the annual event, which has been conducted under a different theme each year. Previous themes have been based off “The Great Gatsby,” prohibition and disco.
Hundt says the theme this year is all about fun. “The music in general is timeless. Who doesn’t want to dress up as a rock star?” Hundt said.
The event usually draws an average of 150 people each year. The opportunity to interact with patrons of the event is something many of the dancers look forward to each year.
“I like to hear what their favorite performances are,” Hundt said. “I also like to hear them critique the shows and tell me what they liked or didn’t like about a show. It’s also nice to meet people who aren’t familiar with shows and try to encourage them to come.”
The proceeds from the event will help funding future BalletMet productions and outreach programs.
The event lasts from 7 to 11 p.m. Tickets for the event are $150 per person.
To purchase tickets, contact Barbara Markus at (614)586-8671 or [email protected]. The auctions are currently open and bids can be placed at biddingforgood.com/balletmet.
