Image courtesy of Ballet Idaho.

When asked for a response, Artistic Director Garrett Anderson said, “While the issue of gender equity is one of many that dance companies face as we work toward greater diversity, equity, and inclusion, I am happy to know we are making progress. I have to acknowledge that I don’t go out seeking great female choreographers, just great choreography by people I want to work with. The sheer number of talented women in this industry makes it easy.

I do feel fortunate to know so many inspiring artists and to get to work with so many wonderful collaborators. I’d like to thank Liza and her team for working to highlight what should be the obvious question: with so many talented women contributing to this industry, why does this inequity exist? It’s encouraging to see more women step into leadership in an industry that has always been championed and nurtured by women at every level. From mothers, teachers, choreographers, directors, performers, designers, fundraisers, company managers, stage managers and more, one cannot think of ballet without thinking of the great women that comprise its history and help to shape its future.

I’d like to thank Ballet Idaho’s Associate Artistic Director Anne Mueller and Executive Director Laura von Boecklin Curry, two incredible leaders who are helping to move this company forward with intelligence, wisdom, vision, and guts, as well as all of the wonderful board members, staff, and dancers who are doing the daily work to support, create, and lead from their respective roles within Ballet Idaho. I’d also like to credit Courtney Anderson for her perspective, guidance, and accountability, always.

I hope that we will see companies continue to embrace greater equity and empathy in this field. I know Ballet Idaho will continue to take an honest look at how we can provide nurturing and empowering spaces for artists to thrive at many junctures of life- as they begin and end their careers, as they step into leadership, begin families, or pursue choreographic ambitions. Dancers sacrifice so much. It is my hope we can further the idea that we are a place that gives back to the artists who give so much to their daily work and the beauty they create.”

Ballet Idaho is deeply committed to gender equity and the empowerment of women, and this award is not only an incredible way to commemorate Women’s History Month, it launches Ballet Idaho into the next 50 years of practicing equitable culture in the dance world. Ballet Idaho would like to thank Dance Data Project for this extraordinary recognition.