Jeunes Gouverneurs Annual Benefit Evening 2024 for Les Grands Ballets
On Saturday, March 9, the Jeunes Gouverneurs hosted the much-anticipated 3rd edition of their Annual Benefit Evening for Les Grands Ballets Canadiens. The event, which raised $75,000, was a moment of cultural enrichment and a testament to the vibrant philanthropic hearts beating within Montreal’s young urban professionals.
The festivities kicked off at 6:30 PM inside the Wilder Building with a cocktail dinner and silent auction that set the stage for an evening of networking and camaraderie.
The eclectic gathering of professionals, under the honorary co-presidency of Ariane Dusablon and Alexandra Freedman, was a melting pot of industries united for a philanthropic cause: support the Jeunes Gouverneurs as they champion Les Grands Ballets’ mission of creation.
At 8 PM, the curtain rose on an exclusive performance by Les Grands Ballets, showcasing the company’s rich tapestry of talent and creativity. This year’s choreographic workshops were a highlight, with dancers stepping into the role of choreographer to unveil original creations. The initiative provided a fresh perspective on the art form, spotlighting the diverse artistic voices within the company.
Principal dancer Vanesa G.-R. Montoya, along with dancers Aurora De Mori, Calista Shepheard, Carrigan MacDonald, Kiara Flavin, Thomas Leprohon, and Oscar Lambert, brought their unique narratives to life, captivating the audience with their storytelling prowess.
Adding to the evening’s excitement, attendees were treated to a preview of excerpts from the Cantata mixed bill, setting the stage for its upcoming run at Place des Arts.
The dynamic contemporary ballet “Podium,” choreographed by Étienne Delorme, and “Cantata,” choreographed by Mauro Bigonzetti, explored the depth of human relationships through dance, evoking emotions that ranged from passion and seduction to conflict and jealousy.
As the performances concluded, the night transformed into a vibrant dance party, with Les Grands Ballets dancers, Young Gouverneurs committee members and attendees moving to the live set of DJ Kelly. The energy was infectious, blurring the lines between performers and guests, and reinforcing the unity of purpose that brought everyone together.
As the evening drew to a close, the impact of the Jeunes Gouverneurs’ Annual Benefit Evening was palpable. It was a celebration of dance, as well as a powerful demonstration of how art and philanthropy can intersect to create lasting change.
About the Jeunes Gouverneurs of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens
Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, with its storied 60-year history, continues to be a beacon of artistic creation and production. Under the artistic direction of Ivan Cavallari, the company has remained faithful to classical ballet while embracing contemporary works and fostering emerging talent.
Its commitment to making dance accessible through various initiatives, including the Nutcracker Fund for Children and the National Centre for Dance Therapy, underscores its role in the cultural and social fabric of Montreal.
The Jeunes Gouverneurs, a committee founded in 2012, have grown into a formidable force for good, embodying the spirit of community involvement and philanthropy. The ambitious goal of raising $75,000 during their Annual Benefit Evening this season was a success and will fuel Les Grands Ballets’ creative mission, ensuring the art of dance continues to flourish and inspire.
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