Avondale, AZ – Southwest Ballet Theatre (SWBT) is thrilled to unveil its groundbreaking initiative, the Boys Ballet Tuition-Free Program, aimed at making ballet accessible to boys in the West Valley. In conjunction with this exciting venture, SWBT is proud to introduce Anthony V. Spaulding II as the new Interim Artistic Director.
BOYS BALLET TUITION-FREE DANCE PROGRAM
Ballet is for boys, too! Designed to provide boys with unparalleled access to ballet training, SWBT’s Boys Ballet Tuition-Free Program recognizes the unique attributes of male dancers. Central to the program is a boys-only class, skillfully guided by Interim Artistic Director Anthony Spaulding. This class aims to enhance athleticism, flexibility, muscle strength, and coordination, all while fostering a supportive environment that celebrates the energy of boys. To complement this class, additional co-ed ballet sessions tailored to varying ages and abilities are offered, further enriching the students’ dance journey.
“We believe in the transformative power of dance for all individuals,” stated Anthony V. Spaulding II. “The Boys Ballet Tuition-Free Program offers boys the chance to experience the immense benefits of ballet training, empowering them to excel in sports, cultivate self-expression, and embrace the joy of captivating audiences.”
The program also encourages voluntary participation in productions such as The Nutcracker and the spring showcase, providing students with the chance to shine on stage and share their artistic expression.
INTRODUCING ANTHONY V. SPAULDING II
Mr. Anthony V. Spaulding II brings an impressive array of experience to his role as Interim Artistic Director. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, his journey began at Dance Incorporated under the guidance of Hodgie Jo. His passion for ballet then led him to the School of Ballet Arizona, where he honed his craft under the esteemed direction of Mr. Kee Juan Han and Nadia Zubkov. Mr. Spaulding’s dedication led him to San Francisco Ballet School, where he perfected his skills under Gloria Govrin’s tutelage. His exceptional talent secured him a position as an Apprentice with the San Francisco Ballet in 2004, and subsequently, he ascended to the esteemed role of Soloist dancer in 2008. Mr. Spaulding’s dynamic background and unwavering commitment to the art of ballet position him as an exceptional addition to the Southwest Ballet Theatre leadership team.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST BALLET THEATRE
Bringing the art of ballet to the West Valley; Southwest Ballet Theatre (“SWBT”) is a nonprofit ballet company that brings high quality, professional ballet performances to the West Valley community at an affordable price.
SWBT exists to enrich, inspire, and uplift lives through classical dance education and performance. SWBT performs The Nutcracker every December and another full-length ballet in the spring under a co-production agreement with the Performing Arts Center at Estrella Mountain Community College (“EMCC”). By audition, dance students from the School of SWBT, colleges, and other dance studios have the opportunity to participate in these productions.
SWBT’s goal is to encourage learning in a positive, nurturing, and developmentally sound environment while building on the principles of ballet technique for students of all levels—recreational through pre-professional.
To learn more about Southwest Ballet Theatre and the full spectrum of dance offerings, visit www.swbtballet.org.