City Ballet Company Formally Welcomed

Councilwoman Shirley McCracken and community arts leaders have convinced a San Clemente-based professional ballet company to move here in an effort to offer more cultural activities.

The City Council on Tuesday welcomed the former Coast Ballet Theatre, which has changed its name to Anaheim Ballet.

Council members presented a proclamation to Sarma and Lawrence Rosenberg, the ballet company’s co-artistic directors.

McCracken, instrumental in drawing the company to the city, said it signals a new era for Anaheim.

“It brings another entertainment venue in our community,” she said. “It provides job opportunities and cultural development.”

Charlotte Brady, Anaheim Arts Council president, commended officials: “We’re thrilled to have a ballet company in that we hope to develop this as a ‘city of dancers.’ The city has been more focused on developing sports, and, we’re happy they’re turning their eye on developing culture. It gives us a well-rounded city.”

Along with city officials, the Arts Council will help the ballet company--based in Orange County since 1985--find a permanent home and develop a board of directors, Brady said.

Sarma Rosenberg said the company will move to temporary quarters in mid-September at Martin Recreation Center at La Palma Park.

Performances will be staged at Pearson Park amphitheater and Freedman Forum downtown.

The company also will offer a scholarship program for disadvantaged youth and recreational classes.

Rosenberg said that Anaheim, with its enthusiastic support and international profile, was the perfect place for a planned expansion.

“What we’re seeing in Anaheim is there’s a maturity in the community that sees how important the arts are,” she said.