Columbus has been lucky over the last 13 years to have artists that bring the beauty of ballet to the stage over and over. Together, Adrienne Benz, Bethany Lee & Andres Estevez have been part of over 90 shows and hundreds of performances representing BalletMet internationally, across the states and of course in Columbus where they call home. They each will retire during the 2016-2017 season.
“These three dancers are extraordinary talents. They have devoted countless hours to their craft. Dancing is intensely physical and demands commitment by the mind, body and soul. We have been so fortunate to have them as part of our company as they each bring such unique qualities to the stage. I’ve enjoyed working with each of them.” Edwaard Liang, Artistic Director, BalletMet[image_with_animation image_url=”10048″ alignment=”” animation=”None”]Adrienne Benz, a company dancer since 2003, received the 2006 Princess Grace Award, BalletMet’s 2009 Violetta Boft Award and was one of Dance Magazine’s “25 To Watch” in 2010. Ms. Benz has been with BalletMet since the beginning of her professional career, and after 14 years has announced this will be her farewell season.
“As an artist, Adrienne is exquisite; she commands the stage and your eye is drawn to her and her fearless dancing.”
Sue Porter Executive Director of BalletMetBethany Lee joined BalletMet in 2006 after being with Houston’s Ballet II. Bethany has been an extremely versatile dancer for BalletMet, dancing both contemporary and classical roles.
“I have worked with Bethany for 12 seasons and watched her grow into an extraordinary ballerina. She has an incredibly open and strong work ethic and has a remarkable ability to bring to life a wide range of movement styles and characters. I admire how she can move the audience whether as a possessed Lucy in Dracula or a warm and lovely sugar plum.”
Emily Gotschall, BalletMet Company Dancer[image_with_animation image_url=”9678″ alignment=”” animation=”None”][image_with_animation image_url=”9671″ alignment=”” animation=”None”]Prior to coming to Columbus and joining BalletMet in 2009, Andres Estevez danced with Ballet Nacional de Cuba, Miami City Ballet and Orlando Ballet as a principal dancer under the direction of Fernando Bujones. In 2010 Andres received BalletMet’s Violetta Boft award. This will be Andres’ final season and is one he’s looking forward to. “After this season, I plan to pursue opportunities that capitalize on my experience and background as an artist, including teaching and mentoring other artists. This will be is a new and exciting journey for me and I will be ready to make that transition when the time comes.” Andres Estevez, Retiring BalletMet Company Dancer
The entire BalletMet organization wishes to thank Adrienne, Bethany and Andres for the graceful way they represent our company, their artistic vision, and the splendor that they’ve given to Columbus, and beyond, and especially to all of us here at BalletMet. We hope you’ll join us this season as we celebrate their accomplishments and careers.