In the world of ballet, every movement tells a story, every performance marks a moment, and every dancer leaves behind a legacy of artistry, dedication, and passion. This season, Sacramento Ballet bids a fond and heartfelt farewell to two of its most distinguished artists, Ava Chatterson and Kaori Higashiyama, as they take their final bows and step into the next chapter of their lives.
Ava Chatterson: A Legacy of Strength and Grace
For 14 years, Ava Chatterson has graced the stages of Sacramento Ballet with a presence that is both powerful and poetic. Originally from Flint, Michigan, Ava’s journey began at the Flint School of Performing Arts before she earned her Bachelor of Science in Ballet and Legal Studies from Indiana University. Her career has spanned an impressive range of classical and contemporary works, from commanding performances as Myrtha in Giselle to striking portrayals in Balanchine’s Rubies, Serenade, The Four Temperaments, and Who Cares?.
Reflecting on her time with Sacramento Ballet, Ava fondly recalls the 2014 triple bill that featured Wunderland by Edwaard Liang, Wild Sweet Love by Trey McIntyre, and Acceptance, a newly created work by Ma Cong. “I was lucky enough to be featured in all three pieces, and I remember just loving everything I got to dance on that program,” she shares. The collaborations and creative challenges she faced during these years shaped her into the artist she is today.
Yet, a dancer’s journey is never without obstacles. Standing as the tallest woman in the company came with both limitations and opportunities. “There are still lots of stereotypes in ballet about height,” Ava explains. “There are roles I knew I’d probably never do, but on the other hand, there are roles specifically made for tall women that have been amazing to dance. I’ve learned to enjoy the parts I am given and to let go of things I can’t change.”
Ava’s decision to retire was a thoughtful one, balancing the physical demands of a professional career with the desire for new experiences. “Dancing professionally is very mentally and emotionally taxing, and prioritizing my health (in the future) was something I’d been thinking about.” Though she will step away from the stage, she will continue sharing her artistry through teaching, while also exploring new creative pursuits. “I have a lot of artists in my family, and I’ve noticed that even if you’re not making art professionally, your creativity still informs the way you live your life.”
Kaori Higashiyama: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance
Kaori Higashiyama’s journey in ballet began at the age of three in Shiga, Japan, and took her to The Royal Ballet school in England before she embarked on a professional career that ultimately led her to Sacramento Ballet in 2012. Over the years, she has brought depth, elegance, and sincerity to the stage, particularly in works like Carmina Burana, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Who Cares?, and Serenade. Her performances in contemporary works by Darrell Grand Moultrie, Gabrielle Lamb, and Ma Cong further showcased her artistic range.
Among her most treasured memories is her performance in Carmina Burana, where she embodied the “Beige Girl” role, draped in a flowing silk cape. “It always felt so special being on stage, especially during the solo with the female singer. My movements felt completely in sync with her voice—it was truly a beautiful and memorable moment for me.”
Kaori has also grown beyond performing, delving into choreography and costume design for productions both within and outside of Sacramento Ballet. “These experiences have helped me grow a lot as an artist,” she notes, highlighting how the company provided her with invaluable opportunities.
Her decision to retire is filled with gratitude rather than sorrow. “I’m so thankful to have all the great memories to carry with me into my future. I would also like to thank myself—for accomplishing a long ballet career, for my body allowing me to perform for the audience and the people I love, and for my commitment and dedication to ballet for over 35 years.”
While she prepares for life beyond the professional stage, Kaori will have one last special performance: a duet with her mother this summer. “She took me to ballet class when I was three, and I naturally just wanted to keep dancing after that. She still takes ballet class at 53, and she inspires me to this day. We used to perform together every year until I left home, so this will be such a special moment for me.”
A Lasting Impression
As Ava and Kaori step into new roles beyond the stage, their contributions to Sacramento Ballet will remain indelible. Both dancers have left a legacy not only through their unforgettable performances but also through their mentorship, camaraderie, and artistry that have shaped the company’s culture.
To young dancers who aspire to follow in their footsteps, Ava offers this wisdom: “Take your work seriously, but don’t take yourself too seriously. Cultivating a positive mindset and being nicer to yourself will help so much in the long run.” And Kaori reminds us of the importance of trust: “Believe in yourself, even when fear and self-doubt creep in. Enjoy being present in the moment.”
With gratitude, the Sacramento Ballet community celebrates these extraordinary artists, thanking them for the years of dedication, inspiration, and sheer beauty they have brought to the stage. As they take their final bows, they do so with the knowledge that their influence will continue to resonate within the ballet world and beyond. Bravo, Ava and Kaori!
This article was first published in the Visions/Beer & Ballet magazine. It is published here courtesy of Sacramento Ballet. Click here to learn more or read the entire magazine.
Featured Image: Kaori Higashiyama, photo by Marissa Gearhart.
Image 1: Ava Chatterson with Christopher Nachtrab, photo by Marissa Gearhart.
Image 2: Kaori Higashiyama with Richard Smith, photo by Marissa Gearhart.
