Grahn-Howard: Lawmakers Appreciate Ballet's Good Graces

If you have ever read my bio on this site you may know that politics is why I am here. I have other interests as well and enjoy when they converge, as I expect many of you do. Full disclosure notice, I serve as a member of the Board of Directors of the St. Louis Ballet. I have worked with many area legislators on various bill and issues, back in February they worked to bring special recognition to the St. Louis Ballet. Also, in December of 2011, US Congressman Todd Akin honored the ballet with a special Congressional recognition. This was also attended by State Representatives Cole McNary (Chesterfield), Paul Curtman (Pacific) and Tim Jones (Eureka) on opening night of the Nutcracker.

In late February, Artistic Director Gen Horiuchi and several members of the Saint Louis Ballet went to Jefferson City on a good will tour. The Ballet was honored in the Missouri State Capitol receiving recognition from both the Missouri House and Senate. The Saint Louis Ballet were greeted by Missouri Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder and introduced on the House floor by State Representative Tim Jones and on the Missouri Senate floor by State Senator Eric Schmitt. A resolution from the Missouri Senate was sponsored and signed by the all of the St. Louis County region Senators. The dancers also met with Senators Jane Cunningham and Eric Schmitt, and Representative Shane Schoeller. It was a great day of recognition for the Saint Louis Ballet. Joining Gen were SLB Board member Chris Howard, Dancers Elliot Goelat, Tiffany Mori, Kate Rouzer, Lauren Lane, Pam Swanney, and Erin Swinney.

Why do I bring this up now? I think it is a good thing to thank those legislators who took the time to recognize those who bring elegance and beauty in our lives. Too often the passion of issues and agendas get in the way of actually representing the people. Also, it is time for the dancers to dance again. In a community that is so rich in family friendly activities I wanted to mention that the St. Louis Ballet is performing a classic in Swan Lake, opening night is Friday the 27th. The performance will be amazing and the music … you will know, even if you could not place it. An added treat is that about 20 local area school age students will be performing with the professional company in various roles. Granted you there is no political message in Swan Lake ... well, other than dedication to purpose and that true love can prevail.

Tickets are available here.

Please look for upcoming blog posts as I interview Republican candidate for Governor Dave Spence and a preview of the Republican State Convention coming in June.