Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Hibner.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
In 2022, a beloved ballet studio was closing down, except it was such a special place for so many dancers, parents banded together to create a non-profit-City Beautiful Ballet. That first year we bravely announced we would still put on “The Nutcracker” and a Spring Show. Even when we didn’t really know if we could do it, we promised our dancers we’d be there for them. We had dedicated dance instructors who taught our dancers and together with parents, produced a full-length Nutcracker in December 2022. There was even a Spring show. From there our Studio Community bonded and we became closer than ever, carpooling and volunteering to give our dancers a place to continue to train in classical ballet and other dance styles, with excellence and heart. City Beautiful Ballet is a haven dancers can be nurtured and we have more opportunities than ever for new and current dancers.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was appointed as Executive Director by our volunteer Board in Early this past October. However, I have been the show director/producer for Lake Nona’s Nutcracker for the past two years. When I started, there was a very limited budget, and I was working with all volunteers, and though many pitched in, it was a lot to wrangle-lights, set pieces, props, stage cues and running a smooth show. Regardless, we were a success then, and every performance has brought improvement, more joy and unforgettable memories watching dancers grow and shine. This year, we have added tremendously to our cast of dancers, added volunteers and have expanded the show itself adding additional pieces of dance to enhance the storyline.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
Our organization was founded as a ballet school. In that regard, our philosophy is that every dancer should be trained in ballet because it offers a remarkable training and discipline that enhances all other dance styles. We offer Jazz, Contemporary, Lyrical, Character, and more for both females and males.. On our Instructor team, we have both professionally trained men and women. All of our Instructors are amazing people first and foremost, and they have the heart to pour into our dancers caring first about their health and well-being and their connection to dance.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Citybeautifulballet.com
- Instagram: City_beautiful_ballet
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/citybeautifulballet
Image Credits
Headshot: Rinat Halon Photography, All other images by Frank J. Borkowski.
