Swan Lake by VNB

^{L: Livan Gonzalez as Prince Siegfried and Nicole Ramirez as Odette R: Sierra Stipetich as Odile}

The Hylton Performing Arts Center was the site of much activity and appreciation on Friday, March 20. The Virginia National Ballet staged their Swan Lake ballet with music by none other than Tchaikovsky.

I volunteered to manage the silent auction in the main lobby while the performance awed the audience in the theater. I heard loud applause, “Oohs and ahhs,” and a very long curtain call.

During intermission, I observed members of the audience emerge from the theater with smiles on their faces. When they visited the auction tables, I asked for their feedback. “It was amazing,” said one man. “This is my first ballet and now, I want to see more,” said another patron. A third guest shared that they drove from Danville, Virginia for this performance.

The silent auction was well attended and bidding seemed brisk.

With the auditorium doors closed, I heard a roar of applause and ovations. When the doors opened, the guests emerged happy and animated. Back at the auction tables, I asked more questions. One woman volunteered that she has watched the Moscow and Mariinsky Ballets and that performance was just as good, if not better.

The White Swan and the Black Swan emerged in full costumes. The squeals from their fans were loud and loving.

The Virginia National Ballet Benefit Silent Auction is live online until April 1. You can bid on jewelry, art, libations, adventures, services, and travel, among many other delightful items.

A few tickets for the March 28 performance at Capital One Hall are still available. This is an incredible opportunity to watch world-class ballet at very reasonable prices.

Congratulations to the company, the dancers, and staff!