Message From Edward Villella To Subscribers Of Miami City Ballet

Dear valued subscriber:I am writing to thank you for your patronage of Miami City Ballet. Your continued support has helped us build an internationally acclaimed brand of ballet that is a local treasure for the entire South Florida community to take pride in and enjoy. While we stand on the accolades of the past, we are also ready to build a strong future. That is why I have decided that with the leadership transition plan well underway, it is time for me to leave the company now.I commend the board for its years of support, stewardship and leadership. Through the efforts of their succession planning, I am satisfied that the ballet’s future has been secured. Lourdes Lopez is ready to begin work immediately on the highly anticipated Paul Taylor, Liam Scarlett and George Balanchine performances scheduled for the opening of the 2012-2013 season. I am confident it will be brilliant.I offer one last heartfelt thank you for your support of myself and the ballet. The devotion of ballet lovers like yourself enabled us to bring word-class dancers to South Florida and Miami dancers to the world, and will be what propels Miami City Ballet to its next great milestone and secure its place as one of the world’s great ballets.All in all, my time here in Miami has been life changing and it has been my honor to be part of this community.Thank you for your support,Edward Villella