Ballet Theatre Company held a grand opening celebration Sunday afternoon in the newly-renovated additional space at its West Hartford facility, and announced the naming of studio spaces after key supporters.

BTC’s Pointe IV Students performing an excerpt from Divide by Stephanie Dattellas. Courtesy photo

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Ballet Theatre Company (BTC) officially opened its brand new state-of-the-art studio and performance space with a Grand Opening celebration on Sunday, Jan. 26.

More than 120 people attended the opening, which included a presentation of the new 2,200 square foot space consisting of a 50-by-34-foot sprung marley dance floor, wall-to-wall mirrors, new ballet barres, and unveiling of details of future plans.

As part of the celebration, the Connecticut Dance Alliance presented its Dance History Project Exhibit “Connecticut Dances – A Visual History,”that was accompanied by light refreshments and the opportunity to talk with BTC staff, faculty, and other guests who attended the event while touring BTC’s new and existing space.

Many thanks were given to those who contributed to BTC’s “Reaching the Pointe” capital campaign, as well as special recognition of distinguished members of the community who have greatly supported BTC in its 21 year existence.

With the opening of the new space, it was only fitting to name BTC’s new and existing studios after these distinguished members. BTC’s existing 493 square foot studio has been named “The Timothy and Lisa Greene Studio” in recognition of the Greene family’s contributions to BTC for the past 13 years. Lisa Greene served as co-chair of the Board of Directors along with Doug Eicher for 10 of those 13 years, and was instrumental in BTC’s move into its current space on Jefferson Avenue. Her daughter, Alison Greene also attended classes at BTC until graduating high school, and has since come back to volunteer her time working behind-the-scenes on productions and fundraising events.

BTC’s 1,346 square foot space has been named after BTC’s very own Tracy Dorman, who was one of the four original founders and is currently BTC’s executive director, head costumer for all BTC productions, and a well-accomplished dance photographer. Her work, all done as a volunteer for the past 21 years, is the reason for BTC’s success and longevity in the Greater Hartford area.

Lastly, the newly opened 2,200 square foot space has been named “The Ron and Nancy Compton Studio” to show BTC’s appreciation for the Comptons’ long-time financial support of BTC, Ron’s generosity of his photographic talents, and for both of their energy and enthusiasm for the arts in the Greater Hartford area.

BTC’s professional Season Dancers and Pointe IV students then performed works by Artistic Director Stephanie Dattellas and Ballet Mistress Megan Klamert.

The celebration ended with a ribbon cutting ceremony with special guest Mayor Shari Cantor of West Hartford, her mother, Rose Granow, and any BTC students who were in attendance.

“I was overwhelmed with pride and joy when I looked around the room and saw so many members of the West Hartford community supporting such an exciting milestone for the company. I look forward to seeing where this new space takes us as we enter a new chapter,” said Dattellas.

Within the next few weeks, the company will be adding a new high-quality sound system and versatile seating that can be used for intimate performances or events. BTC will also be renting the new space to any local artists who are looking for a place to create and/or showcase their work whether it be a performance, a presentation, a gallery, a conference space, or other gathering.

To learn more about BTC’s upcoming performances, programs, and classes visit www.dancebtc.org.

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BTC staff, professional and student dancers with Mayor Shari Cantor and her mother, Rose Granow, for the ribbon cutting. Photo credit: Ron Compton (courtesy photo)

Ron and Nancy Compton laughing during the recognition speech presenting the new studio dedication. Courtesy photo

Tracy Dorman during the recognition speech. Courtesy photo

A BTC young male student seeing the space for the first time. Courtesy photo

BTC students exploring the CDA exhibit. Courtesy photo

Ribbon cutting at new BTC space with mayor Shari Cantor and her mother, Rose Granow. Courtesy photo

BTC staff, professional and student dancers with Mayor Shari Cantor and her mother, Rose Granow, for the ribbon cutting

Connecticut Dance Alliance Dance History Exhibit. Courtesy photo