"The Golden Bough" has delighted audiences since 1997. The ballet was consciously designed to further the technical and artistic development of academy students at every level of proficiency and develop professionalism in a student population. Proven over six seasons, "The Golden Bough" works precisely as intended:

"The Golden Bough" introduces children and their parents to dance as an art form, with its infinite possibilities for storytelling, that is unlike the focus at competition schools. "The Golden Bough" raises student horizons from recitals and competitions to a level of performance founded upon artistry, discipline, and the demands of professional ballet.

"The Golden Bough" introduces students, parents, and the public to a full-length, original ballet by an American artist, that is a fresh alternative to ubiquitous "Nutcrackers", but, unlike "The Nutcracker", "The Golden Bough" is suitable for performance at any time of the year. At one-and-one-half hours, "The Golden Bough" is just right for a matinee or evening show bill.

"The Golden Bough" has been shown to increase enrollment in performing arts and avocational adult ballet programs. The ballet was designed to make the best use of dancers of all ages, including avocational adults and retired dancers and features many potential roles for men and boys. The use of children in the cast is effective, respectful, dignified, and appropriate.

Each year, the students mature into different roles, advancing technically and artistically with each performance of "The Golden Bough". Students, professionals, and non-professionals alike have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the production, and look forward to it from year to year.

"The Golden Bough" presents a very positive message in a totally entertaining way. It is both beautiful to look at and listen to. As two (non-related) audience members put it: "This ballet should be a national treasure!"

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