Arts philanthropist and Palm Beach resident Anka Palitz was honored at the annual fundraiser for Ballet Palm Beach.
“Gala By The Sea” took place Jan. 28 at The Breakers.
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Lora Drasner, Robin Fleming, Erin McGould and Nicole Noonan were chairwomen for the evening, which had an under-the-sea theme.
Not that guests had to wait until they entered the ballroom to find out. The “King Neptune” who hoisted his trident as he heartily greet arrivals pretty much let that salmon out of the net.
In addition to the cocktail reception and dinner, the evening included the recognition of Palitz as “The First Lady of Ballet.” Palitz has been a stalwart supporter of the organization since moving to Palm Beach.
“When I first came to Palm Beach and saw the company perform, I was really impressed with the quality of their training,” she said at the ballet’s announcement of the pledge. They are as good dancers as any I have ever seen from any company in the world. I feel it is vital to support the arts because when we do, it brings so much personal joy. The creation and appreciation of the arts is what makes us human, and dance is the earliest form of artistic expression.”
Palitz’ grandson Ryan Kriser offered a heartfelt dedication his grandmother. He spoke about her recent $1 million donation to the ballet, emphasizing how her enduring generosity profoundly affects not only those in her immediate circle but also countless aspiring artists who will now have opportunities they once only dreamed of.
Founding director Colleen Smith also offered brief remarks.
“We are so humbled by the outpouring of support from everyone,” she said. “These funds are vital for the company and enable us to support our operations, including the development of our original productions, educational outreach programming and impacting our community through the timeless art of ballet.”
The night continued with live auction, music from the Switzer Sound, dancing, and an original performance by Ballet Palm Beach’s company members.
More than 200 people attended.
Proceeds from the event assist Ballet Palm Beach in its mission to inspire and impact people through the timeless and evolving art of ballet. Ballet Palm Beach creates and presents unique and meaningful performances, outreach programs and training experiences.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Ballet Palm Beach honors local arts patroness at ‘Gala By The Sea’
Reporting by Shannon Donnelly, Palm Beach Daily News / Palm Beach Daily News
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Shannon Donnelly, Palm Beach Daily News | USA TODAY Network
