Meet the Hendersonville Ballet

At the Arts Council, our goal is to promote and support the arts in our community. With so many amazing arts organizations around, we aim to help spread the power of the arts and spotlight what these organizations and arts businesses accomplish. Leading one such organization is Natalie Gerardot at the Hendersonville Ballet. Here’s what Natalie and director Kevin Overbey have to say about their work.

1. What is the story behind the founding of your organization, and what inspired you to focus on the art that you do (dance)?
   Dance has been my passion from an early age, and I have dedicated my life's work to it. After moving to Western North Carolina, I established a school and set up a nonprofit to create a fine arts performing company serving Henderson County.
2. Can you describe your organization's core mission and the impact you aim to have in the community?
   Our mission is to provide a platform for young talented dancers to grow and excel in the art of dance performance, enhancing community culture and sharing the joy and benefits of dance with the community.
3. What are some of the key programs or activities that your organization offers, and how do they support local artists or engage the community?
   Hendersonville Ballet stages two full productions annually, including 'The Nutcracker.' These productions enable our students to learn about classical ballet and contemporary dance, and to understand the history of dance. Many of our students have turned professional, and we also serve as a venue for local choreographers to work with our students. Our students gain confidence, discipline, and teamwork, and experience the joy of performing for our local audiences.
4. How does the community participate in your initiatives? Are there opportunities for volunteers or local artists to get involved?
   We always welcome community volunteers to assist with our productions, from sewing costumes to building sets. We also collaborate with local musicians during performances. We continuously seek support from businesses and individuals in Henderson County to help enhance our community's culture and support the positive development of our youth.
5. What have been some of the biggest challenges your organization has faced, and how have you overcome them?
   One of our biggest challenges was sustaining the company through the pandemic. Our long-term challenge has been raising sufficient funds to enhance the quality of our productions, which we are addressing through community engagement and funding initiatives.
6. Could you share a memorable success story or a particularly impactful project that your organization has undertaken?
   Last spring, we performed the second act of 'Swan Lake,' coached by the world-renowned and Emmy-winning choreographer, Anna Marie Holmes. This was a significant achievement for our dancers and the local dance community.
7. Looking ahead, what are some of the goals or projects your organization hopes to achieve in the near future?
   We aim to strengthen our program by inviting more guest artists and choreographers to work with our dancers. We are also thrilled to have Hendersonville Ballet alumni, who are now dancing professionally, come back and mentor our current students. We seek further support and funding to continue these projects.
8. How can members of the community support your efforts? Are there specific ways people can contribute or become involved?
   We strive to make dance affordable for families interested in the arts. A donation of just $200 can buy two pairs of pointe shoes for one of our dancers. We hope to build a community of supporters who will help support our young dancers over the years.
   

​Thank you, Natalie and Kevin, for sharing your insights and dedication to dance through the Hendersonville Ballet. Your commitment not only enhances the artistic landscape of our community but also provides invaluable opportunities for young dancers to thrive.
At the Arts Council, we are dedicated to enriching our community's cultural life and promoting the transformative power of the arts. We encourage everyone to connect with and support local organizations, nonprofits, and arts businesses that play a pivotal role in making our community a vibrant place to live, work, and play.
Don't miss the opportunity to experience the magic of dance and music as Hendersonville Ballet presents Gustav Holst's "The Planets." Performances are scheduled for Friday, May 3rd, and Saturday, May 4th, both at 7 PM. Tickets are available now and can be purchased at Hendersonville Ballet: The Planets Spring '24. Join us for a journey that promises to be as enlightening as it is entertaining. Support the arts and witness the beauty and power of ballet and music combined.