Ballet Theatre Of Maryland Opens Season

Before Ballet Theatre of Maryland (BTM) kicks off its performances in residence at Maryland Hall for the Arts, it will hold two events in downtown Annapolis: Ballet in the Garden on September 16, followed by BTM’s 45th anniversary gala on September 24. Both events will give audiences the opportunity to see the company up close.

The historic Hammond Harwood House will open its grounds for the VIP event Ballet in the Garden on September 16 at 5:00pm. This intimate performance features smaller classical works in a charming garden setting. All tickets include a complimentary glass of wine.

“This marks our fourth year collaborating with Hammond Harwood House,” said Nicole Kelsch, Ballet Theatre of Maryland artistic director. “We have always loved performing for our audiences in an outdoor setting, but what started out of necessity in 2020 has grown into one of the hidden gems of our season.”

The 45th anniversary gala will take place at Acqua Al 2 in Downtown Annapolis on September 24 at noon. Guests will mix and mingle with the company dancers while they enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine, drinks and a silent auction. The evening will also include a brief performance by BTM dancers. The gala will commemorate BTM’s accomplishments and raise funds to continue bringing new works into the company’s repertory.

Expanding the repertory has been a goal for Kelsch since she was appointed artistic director in July 2020. Since then, Ballet Theatre of Maryland has performed classic ballets such as “Giselle,” “Les Sylphides” and “Don Quixote” for the first time while also welcoming guest choreographers such as Meagan Helman, Keith Lee, Roman Mykyta and Ashley Taylor. For the 2023-2024 season, BTM will premiere new productions of “The Firebird” and “The Sleeping Beauty.”

To purchase tickets or learn more, visit www.balletmaryland.org.