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While Clara and her prince may enjoy a magical Pas de Deux during each annual performance of "The Nutcracker," Ballet Arizona and APS enjoy a special duet of their own - one that has supported the ballet for the past 20 years.
For its commitment to Ballet Arizona, APS was recognized in March 2006 at a special event called "Dance with Me." Providing participants with a delightful turn of events, Ballet Arizona performers danced with the guests. It was the first time this kind of event was offered as a means to thank patrons. APS was one of more than 10 groups and individuals recognized.
"APS has stuck with us through thick and thin, offering support for the arts," says Gail Warden, Ballet Arizona philanthropic officer. "The company always has been a great and constant supporter of the community and it is our pleasure to pay tribute to them."
APS sponsors the ballet's signature "The Nutcracker" performance each year. Thanks to the success of this holiday classic, the ballet is able to provide more quality performances throughout the year. APS employees benefit as well, receiving a 20 percent discount for the entire family to attend any Ballet Arizona event.
One of the hallmarks of the "The Nutcracker" sponsorship is the "curtain speech" prior to the event. This gives APS executives an opportunity to thank their customers on behalf of APS' more than 8,000 employees.
"The curtain speech gives us a nice platform to address our audience," says Joanna De'shay, community development consultant. "It's something people really look forward to each year and allows us to spread some holiday cheer. It's not unusual to see an APS officer in a Santa hat or reindeer ears. After all, we're addressing our future customers, as well!"
While "The Nutcracker" is a tradition for hundreds of Valley families, it has also become an integral part of the holidays for several APS employees. After 20 years, the performance is now moving into its next generation of audience members. Cindy Slick, manager of metro community development, has taken her daughters to the holiday classic for many years.
"My daughters are now 35 and 30 years old and we still enjoy going to 'The Nutcracker' each holiday season," she says. "When the girls were little, I think they just loved getting dressed up to go downtown and see the costumes and the dancing. Now, they enjoy hearing my curtain speech and spending the evening together as our 'kick-off' to the holidays."
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