SATURDAY, November 11, LA Dance Project (LADP) held its annual gala beneath the majestic arches of Vibiana in downtown Los Angeles. The event was a tribute to Misty Copeland, who made history as the first Black principal ballerina in the United States of America and is a worldwide ballet icon—the evening, sponsored by Van Cleef & Arpels, raised the most money in the history of LADP as a fundraiser. This is a tremendous accomplishment for the arts, as LADP Chairman of the Board Mark Tarbeek and Executive Director Lucinda Lent discussed their intentions to expand their studio.
The expansion encompasses two seating levels (from 100 to 200) and a dance library and research room that are open to the public. This signifies a fresh chapter in the relationship between Los Angeles and the artistic movement that is indigenous to the city, fostering greater accessibility, knowledge, and awareness.
Debbie Allen introduced Copeland with a moving speech in the cathedral’s courtyard, where guests enjoyed refreshments before she elaborated on the organization’s accomplishments and philanthropic contributions. While relating how the Boys & Girls Club introduced Copeland to dance when she was 13 years old, Allen also presents Dance Pass. This novel product grants Boys & Girls Club members complimentary admission to LADP performances except for the standard ticket charge.
In addition to performances by students of the Everybody Dance LA! Summer intensive, attendees were treated to an excerpt from The Missing Mountain by Bobbi Jene Smith and Or Schraiber, pieces from Be Here Now by LADP Artistic Director Benjamin Millepied performed by LADP company dancers, and a new duet featuring Millepied himself, which was a privilege for the audience to witness as it signified his return to acting as a dancer. After the speeches and performances, various delectable treats were served, including burrata and pear salad, salmon, wine, and chocolate tarts.
Prominent figures from the film, dance, and art communities of Los Angeles, including Alicia Silverstone, Jane Fonda, Kevin Kwan, and Angela Lindvall, among others, gathered in solidarity.
