On April 21, 2024, Ballet Spartanburg had the honor and privilege to help make a young child's dream come true of becoming a ballerina. Memories were created for this child and her family to cherish - as she and her sister danced on the Chapman Cultural Center's stage with professional ballerinas.
One of the outcomes of this extraordinary day was the creation of our "I Wish" Scholarship Fund. Students who have financial, physical, emotional, or social challenges may apply for this scholarship. The donor family wished to share the heartfelt power of the event, allowing for creative expression, the chance to make new friends, and the pure joy of dance. For the fall of 2025, six students are enrolled in the CFDE thanks to the generosity of the "I Wish" Scholarship Fund. If you have questions about dancing on this scholarship, contact Analay Saiz, Center for Dance Education Principal, at asaiz@balletspartanburg.org.
Ballet Spartanburg is a proud supporter of South Carolina's Make-A-Wish, a nonprofit organization whose mission is: "together, we create life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses" (Make-A-Wish.org). If you know a child who is in need of a wish being granted, or would like to become involved, you can contact the South Carolina Make-A-Wish through their website at SC Make-A-Wish.
Ballet Spartanburg's Artistic Director, Carlos Agudelo, was awarded the South Carolina Governor's Award from the South Carolina Arts Commission on May 23, 2023, at the Chapman Cultural Center. The award was presented by Mr. David Platt, Executive Director of the South Carolina Arts Commission. "We recognize the unparalleled energy, enthusiasm, devotion and love for dance that Carlos has gifted to our community out of his passion for all to experience the arts for the past 32 years. We are overjoyed that Carlos has been recognized by the South Carolina Arts Commission, " Teresa S. Berline, Executive Director. "The South Carolina Arts Commission is an extraordinary organization in our state which promotes and advocates opportunities in the arts which values equality, access, diversity and inclusion. Ballet Spartanburg is honored by the support of the South Carolina Arts Commission and the recognition of Carlos Agudelo."