The 1940s were a nostalgic time in American history that brought us D-Day, Betty Grable, WACs and the Andrews Sisters. For Fort Lauderdale philanthropist Rose Miniaci they are a Sentimental Journey.
Rose met, dated and fell head-over-heels for her late husband Alfred Miniaci. Sacrifices were made by many and when duty called, dating was put on hold. Listening to swing music allowed young women like Rose to pass the time while eagerly awaiting the return of their loved ones who were fighting overseas.
To pay tribute to those days of young love, big band sounds, and victory gardens, Rose Miniaci has generously underwritten Miami City Ballet’s production of Company B. The Paul Taylor masterwork is performed to carefree World War II hits by the Andrews Sisters contrasted with the melancholy realities of soldiers at war.
“I have such fond memories of those bygone days, as a young woman in love dancing the night away with Alfred in the dance halls and night clubs of New York City to the sounds of big bands and the Andrews Sisters. The music and beauty of Company B takes me back to those times.”
A pillar in philanthropic and social circles, Rose’s charitable heart is legendary. Her financial assistance runs the gamut from charitable and educational organizations to individuals, medical and philanthropic institutions, museums for the preservation of our history, countless charitable organizations, cultural charities, hospitals, religious, educational and scientific research, music and the arts. The scholarships she awards each year help students of all ages to excel and achieve success in what many thought was an impossible dream. Her generous donation to Nova Southeastern University contributed to funding the school’s Library Research and Information Technology Center and the Alfred & Rose Miniaci Performing Arts Auditorium.
“Rose has helped so many organizations in South Florida and we are so grateful for her support of Miami City Ballet and our season opener,” says Ana Codina Barlick, president of MCB’s Board of Trustees. “Her commitment, dedication and passion have made an enormous impact on MCB and our community.”
Miami City Ballet will perform Company B during Program I at Broward Center on November 6-8 and at Kravis Center November 20-22.
