George Washington Smith A dancer of mixed race and considered the first male American ballet star Considered one of the first male American ballet stars, George Washington Smith maintained a relationship with dance and teaching that spanned a lifetime. Before him, there is no mention of a male ballet dancer in 19th century America. He… Read More

Black History Month Spotlight: Janet Collins Written by Stephen Karakashain Her talent was prodigious. When she was about sixteen, the Ballet Russe de Monte-Carlo came to Los Angles, and Janet decided to audition. She was the only person of color and she lacked an accompanist, bringing instead a portable phonograph. When she finished her audition,… Read More

Pieces of Eight Choreographer Highlight: Samuel Hobbs Given the safety protocols put in place to prevent the spread of Covid-19, our junior company, OBT2, has adapted to the prevailing challenges by adding new projects and programming. These young dancers are approaching their work with a determination and commitment to dance and train no matter the… Read More

Damara Bennett Tribute We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Damara Bennett. To say she had an impact on OBT and our community of dancers and teachers would be an understatement. Damara helped shape the Oregon Ballet Theatre School, grow the community of ballet dancers and teachers within Oregon, and nationwide, and… Read More

Pieces of Eight Choreographer Highlight: Peter Franc OBT: Has your choreographic process changed during the pandemic and if so, how? PETER: I’ve really had to find a way to use my words even more when teaching the dancers the choreography! The physicality and weight of the movement is hard to convey on a small screen.… Read More