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2020 Nutcracker Ball Co-chairs
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2020 Nutcracker Ball Co-chairs Tailor Plans

For the 2020 Nutcracker Ball Co-chairs, Edie Downing and Gail Van Way, creativity is key.

This year’s event will go on, albeit differently than in years past.

They’ve decided to bring aspects of the ball to attendees who will be participating from the safety and comfort of their own homes (or those of close friends or family). An array of items including a gourmet dinner, wine, flowers, a Company performance created an exclusively for this Private Broadcast Event, and more, will create a special evening to remember.

“We have come up with unique ideas to generate interest in the ball, such as incorporating videos of the Company Dancers performing, as well; telling the story of Kansas City Ballet’s Founder Tatiana Dokoudovska–our Honorary Chair, in Memorium,” says Edie.

Raising funds to support an organization or cause is at the heart of every ball. For the Kansas City Ballet, the need for funds has never been greater than this year. While opting to provide a private broadcast event, Edie and Gail want to find ways to stand out and keep excitement and connection part of the evening.

“Our goal is the same as that of every other Nutcracker Ball,” Edie says. “We want to raise as much money as possible for the Kansas City Ballet.”

Honorary Chair Honors a Founder

The Honorary Chair selected for this year’s ball is the late founder of Kansas City Ballet, Tatiana Dokoudovska, or Miss Tania as she was affectionately known.

A tribute to Miss Tania will certainly be part of the event, including remarks by people who studied with her and can offer testament to her inimitable style and enduring impact on the Kansas City Ballet.

It is sure to be a ball for the history books.

You Can Help

To order tickets or to make a donation to the 2020 Nutcracker Ball, visit kcballetball.org or call 816.931.2232 x1359.

About the Chairs

A lifelong fan of performing arts, Edie says, “I joined the Ballet Guild and became a season ticket holder four years ago. Gigi Rose, Guild President at that time, encouraged me to join.”

Gail and Edie had met when Edie joined the Kansas City Young Matrons (KCYM) 10 years ago. KCYM is a women’s philanthropic club that supports roughly 30 charitable organizations/affiliates throughout the greater Kansas City area. Many of the KCYM members are also involved in organizations that support the Arts. They are also members of Kansas City Ballet’s Guild.

“When Gail and I were asked by the Ballet Guild’s Nominating Committee to co-chair The Nutcracker Ball, we thought it would be a fun and rewarding experience,” Edie says.

“During stressful and troubling times, the arts are a haven allowing us to escape the harsh reality of daily news reports of illness, death, and unrest,” Edie says. “Gail and I can only hope that people will generously contribute to the Nutcracker Ball this year, perhaps even more so than in years past. The need is great, and the reward is survival of professional ballet in Kansas City.”

This dynamic pair is committed to creating an engaging and unforgettable event. They invite you to share your support.

 

Photo Credits: Randy Downing, Kansas City Ballet Guild Nutcracker Ball Co-Chairmen Edie Downing and Gail Van Way and Charles Van Way. Photographer Larry F. Levenson.

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