FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                           Contact:

April 4, 2007                                                                  Cindy Reynolds

                                                                                    Media Relations

                                                                                    (714) 541-8314, ext. 19

Spring Forward:  A Benefit Evening at Saint Joseph Ballet

Benefit Event Brings New Friends and Support to Saint Joseph Ballet

            Santa Ana, Calif. (April 4, 2007) On Thursday, March 22, Saint Joseph Ballet hosted its 2nd annual Spring Forward Benefit event introducing many new friends to the Saint Joseph Ballet community and raising more than $75,000 to support its year-round dance, academic and family programs. 

            Event chairs were Sharon and Terry Hartshorn who also were underwriters for the event.  The other underwriters were Janice and John Markley and the Fieldstone Foundation. 

            “Spring Forward was a delightful evening where we introduced many new friends to Saint Joseph Ballet.  This fundraiser supports Saint Joseph Ballet’s programs ranging from modern dance instruction to tutoring and family counseling,” said Josie Emmons Turner, Saint Joseph Ballet managing director.

                Guests enjoyed a full evening which included a reception and special wine tasting of top-rated wines organized and underwritten by Saint Joseph Ballet Board member John Markley.  An engaging presentation and dance performance followed in the studio theatre featuring nearly 60 Saint Joseph Ballet students and alumni who showcased Living with Murky, a work in development created by Artistic Director Melanie Ríos Glaser in collaboration with Lighting Designer Ben Tusher.  Students and alumni also shared stories about their experiences at Saint Joseph Ballet and their passion for dance. 

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