By Conrad Dudderar
Staff Writer
Toes will be tappin’ and boots will be scootin’ when a local ballet company presents a unique spring dance benefit.
Central Oklahoma Ballet welcomes people to “Boots & Ballet” from 7-10 p.m. Friday, April 14 inside iconic Yukon Czech Hall, 205 N Czech Hall Road.
“This is the first time we’ve started fund-raising in the spring for our Yukon Nutcracker,” Central Oklahoma Ballet President Allie Overton said. “It’s the merger of country and ballet, and what’s more representative of country music than boots?
“We thought this would be a fun activity for the community to participate in, even those who may not be ballet fans but enjoy seeing the Nutcracker.”
The special event will kick off at 7 p.m. with two-step lessons led by country dance instructor Anthony Clark.
Live country and western music will be performed by the Wilton O’Neal Band.
“They have quite a following and we’re so excited to join together with them to offer another opportunity for community and culture to combine,” Overton said.
As an added feature, local Central Oklahoma Ballet dancers will perform the song “Oklahoma” between breaks.
Other April 14th highlights will be a silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. A wine pull will feature bottles from wineries in Oklahoma and other states; chances are $20.
“We did Boots and Ballet some years ago and everybody enjoyed it,” Overton pointed out. “So, we wanted to give it another try.
“We’re grateful to be working with Yukon Czech Hall. It’s such an historic venue.”
LAKE HOUSE STAY
Central Oklahoma Ballet board member Kim (Landes) Rex is an active member of Yukon Czech Hall and Oklahoma Czechs Inc. She is contributing one featured silent auction item, a weekend stay at Lake Eufaula.
“For the auction, we also have donations from Woodworks Distilling Company and two trapeze yoga classes from The Bend,” Overton said.
Several other Central Oklahoma Ballet benefits are planned this fall to help raise funds to cover Yukon Nutcracker production costs.
Performances will be Saturday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3 at the Yukon Fine Arts Center, 850 Yukon Ave. Local dancers will again take the stage alongside professional guest artists.
First things first, however.
Central Oklahoma Ballet board members and volunteers invite supporters to the family-friendly Boots & Ballet coming up April 14.
“We’re still looking for sponsors,” Overton said. “Sponsorship opportunities are available by calling me at (405) 412-1722.”
Admission is $35 per person. Tickets may be purchased online at http://www.centralokballet.org
