In September, 1995, with the encouragement and support
of leaders in Chicago’s business, political, cultural and philanthropic
communities, I announced the establishment of The Joffrey Ballet of Chicago
to carry on the traditions, legacies and vision of The Joffrey Ballet which
Robert Joffrey and I had founded in 1956.
Photo: Migdoll
Robert Joffrey (standing) with Gerald Arpino.
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In the two years since the JBC announcement, with your continuing support,
commitment and love, the roots of this nationally and internationally acclaimed
classical ballet company have grown strong and are flourishing in the fertile
soil of the heartland of this great country of ours as we join with The
Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to complete the
triumvirate of World Class performing arts institutions in Chicago.
Robert Joffrey and I have always been nurtured and supported by the unselfish
love, commitment and dedication of very special individuals. This commitment
has help uphold the principles on which Robert Joffrey and I founded this
uniquely American classical dance company and which remain my creative aspirations
– to choreograph myself; to revive the works of Robert Joffrey and myself;
to continue to nurture, commission and present works of young artists, particularly
Americans, to audiences worldwide; and to continue to preserve, re-create
and present the historical masterpieces of 20th Century choreographers;
to present both traditional and contemporary works; and, last, but not least,
continue to provide and nourish the artistic climate and terrain from which
our future JBC artists will grow and flourish.
Gerald Arpino
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