The Ballet Ball Patrons Party Celebrates Four Decades of Community Impact

On a stunning early spring evening, Nashville Ballet patrons gathered at Barry Stowe’s newly renovated home for the Ballet Ball Patrons Party, the traditional prelude to one of the city’s most anticipated cultural events. Both the patrons party and the upcoming Ballet Ball hold special significance this year, as Nashville Ballet celebrates 40 years as a professional company. 

Hosts Barry and his fiancée, Emily Humphreys, warmly welcomed guests, who strolled through the property, admiring the contemporary sculptures and artwork dotting the home, lanai and backyard. Many revelers enjoyed French 75s accented with white feathers — a striking nod to the Ballet Ball’s theme, Swan Lake — while Kristen Winston served up delicious hors d’oeuvres, including her fan-favorite mini grilled cheeses. Event planner Bruce Pittman and his team ensured the evening ran smoothly, and Jim Knestrick provided floral finishing touches.

Ballet Ball co-chairs Neil Krugman, Lisa Manning and Julie Schneider visited with guests, while honorary chair Barbara Turner spoke about the ballet’s vital role in our community. Bringing world-class art to the city is just one component of Nashville Ballet’s multifaceted mission. Each year, it also reaches more than 30,000 schoolchildren and adults through its family and community programs.

Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet’s CEO and artistic director, thanked supporters and emphasized the importance of live art. “It’s something that can never be relived or reexperienced,” he said. “It’s one of those things that allows people to feel a sense of hope and inspiration because they realize what the human form is capable of doing.” Neil, Lisa and Julie asked the sold-out crowd to raise a glass, toasting the record-breaking funds raised through the ball this year.

As twilight settled over the terrace, the evening offered a fitting overture to the Ballet Ball — a celebration of not only an iconic production, but also four decades of artistry, education and community impact from Nashville Ballet.