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 www.bethunetheatredanse.org
Zina Bethune Founder/Artistic Director Bethune Theatredanse and Infinite Dreams
Dear BTW Members,
I am delighted to join you as a member of this very special organization. As I attend meetings and get to know other members, I am amazed at the breadth, scope and wonderful diversity of the BTW ladies. In addition to getting to know terrific women, each meeting has brought about productive professional outcomes. What a potent combination — friendship and professional collaborations.
I am extremely proud of Bethune Theatredanse, which I founded in 1980. We were a pioneer in the production of multimedia movement theater—rooted in classical dance, blending digital media with live performance and ability with disability. After three decades, Bethune Theatredanse productions remain on the cutting edge of technology thanks to the continued support of the entertainment industry.
I have been an actor for much of my career and a professional ballet dancer with the New York City Ballet. My own struggle to retain a dance career despite the challenges of numerous physical disabilities inspired my creation of Infinite Dreams, a participatory educational and performance dance and drama program for disabled children and youth. We were the first professional American dance theater to do so and have served over 7,000 youngsters since 1982. Our leadership in the Arts and Disability Movement continues.
A little bit about our upcoming performance and 30th Anniversary Gala: We are preparing our next multi-media production and opening night Gala to benefit the disabled children of Infinite Dreams. We will also be celebrating our 30th Anniversary!!
The performances are scheduled for February 5th, 6th and 7th, 2010 at the Glendale Community College Theater. Inspired by and utilizing the artwork of renowned environmental artist Wyland, the production, “Silent Roar” is an undersea tale, which unfolds in an exquisite but turbulent oceanic world.
We are thrilled to be honoring Wyland with our “Marine Hero Award” during our Gala on Friday, February 5, which will also include dinner and a silent auction.
My request to you, my fellow BTW members: We too, are feeling the effects of these difficult financial times, and as I thought about possible solutions, BTW and its amazing resources - - you, the members - - came to mind. Would you be interested in joining the Bethune Theatredanse Gala Committee? It is the backbone of our major fundraising event and we would be honored to have your support and expertise. I promise, in return, a rewarding experience.
We will be meeting on Thursday, November 12th at 7:00 pm in the Jack Webb conference room at Universal Studios, Gate 2. Refreshments will be served. If you can’t make it on that night, but would still interested in serving on the committee that would be great, too!
If you would like to join us, please contact Jane Walsh at Bethune Theatredanse at 323-874-0481 or email Jane@bethunetheatredanse.org to confirm your attendance. If you have questions and would like to discuss it further, please call me directly at 323-851-0301.
Thank you for you potential interest. I look forward to hearing from you and to seeing you at future BTW meetings.
Sincerely,
Zina Bethune
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