Music Moves Us

Dear Friends,

When I perform to live music, I feel magic. Hearing the opening note ring out as I step into the lights, knowing that every movement I make will be in harmony with a group of passionate musicians below, brings new life into my dancing and enhances every aspect of my performance, from technique to emotional connection and beyond. From Marie in The Nutcracker to Mina in Dracula, many of my favorite moments on stage have been accompanied by our stunning Milwaukee Ballet Orchestra.

As a Company of professionals, my fellow dancers and I are certainly capable of performing to a recorded soundtrack—but the experience is nowhere near the same for us, nor for you in the audience. Without the orchestra, a very particular source of inspiration and passion is missing for everyone.

Like you, I was disappointed when we learned that Milwaukee Ballet was not financially able to host the orchestra for The Nutcracker this year, and we are so grateful for the anonymous donor that generously underwrote the expense for the upcoming holiday season. But that gift is a one-time fix; it is now up to us to unite and ensure that the orchestra plays on for years to come.

I write to you today asking for your integral support for the music that—quite literally!—moves us. With Milwaukee Ballet being one of the few ballet companies in the nation to maintain its own orchestra, it is crucial that we retain this element of our artistry; but with rising costs and corresponding financial challenges, we can’t do it without your help.

Now through September 30, your gift will be matched up to $50,000 thanks to the contribution of another generous donor. Whether you support with $50 or $5,000, your impact will go twice as far towards keeping live music part of our performances!

To the donors who have or will support our live music fund: Thank you. You have no idea how much it means to every single dancer in the Company, but I hope you will experience it in the passion of our performances; see it in the awestruck faces of our youngest audience members and the enthusiasm of our longtime fans; and hear it in the chatter and good cheer of the orchestra below. Like all of us, your support plays a key role in bringing the magic onstage to life.

With gratitude,

Alana Griffith
Milwaukee Ballet Leading Artist