The 36th Annual Ballet Ball Was an Elevated Evening of Fundraising

Rich aubergine, accented with gold, adorned the elegant Schermerhorn Symphony Center for the 36th annual Ballet Ball. Guests arrived at the beloved event to support Nashville Ballet and its mission to bring the art of dance to the greater Nashville community. The glamorous see-and-be-seen soirée raises critical funds for Nashville Ballet’s community engagement and education initiatives, which provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through virtual and in-person performances and programs. Co-chairs Ana Cristina Cash and Angela Bostelman-Kaczmarek, together with honorary chair Vicki Horne, worked with distinguished event designer Amos Gott to bring the evening’s magical Italian Renaissance theme to life.

Throughout the reception, guests mingled and enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres. As the bells gently chimed for dinner, revelers entered the Laura Turner Concert Hall for food and entertainment. Striking linens accented with deep-purple and lavender sequins topped the tables, complemented by centerpieces reminiscent of Renaissance art. 

As guests enjoyed dinner, Nick Mullikin, Nashville Ballet CEO and artistic director, addressed the crowd and noted the hard work the co-chairs put into the special evening. “Thank you for your time, your energy, support, talent and your generous sponsorship,” he said. “This evening’s event wouldn’t be possible without you.” Angela then expanded on the importance of the evening: “Ballet Ball is more than an elegant soirée. It’s the celebration of the arts, a gathering of friends, and most importantly, a fundamental fundraiser for Nashville Ballet’s education and engagement initiatives.” The co-chairs also thanked Vicki for her years of tireless work to support the ballet and the invaluable advice she offered while planning this year’s ball. 

Then it was time for the main event — live music paired with beautifully choreographed performances by Nashville Ballet company dancers. This year, guests heard from two performers: four-time Grammy nominee Mickey Guyton and Grammy-nominated The War and Treaty. After the captivating program, guests headed to the stage for the Ballet Ball Late Party, hosted by Mary Elizabeth Colton, Jeremy Hunziker, Sara Puryear and Ben Shankle. Guests danced the night away to the tunes of Bizz & Everyday People and enjoyed delicious late-night snacks as they celebrated another successful event.