Dance company Ballet BC takes financial hit amidst COVID-19

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) — Ballet BC is one of many performing arts organizations in the province that have taken a huge economic hit since COVID-19 began, with over $1 million in estimated revenue losses.

John Clark, Executive Director at Ballet BC says it has been disheartening for everyone but especially the dancers.

“Our core of the company is our artists, and we’re trying to find ways to keep them engaged in what is the passion of their lives, how we keep them trained and in shape for what they are meant to do,” he said.

The company had to cancel all touring performances in Victoria, as well as three performances that were supposed to close the season at Queen Elizabeth Theatre in Vancouver. It was also set to premiere at the Sydney Opera House in Australia last week.

Ballet BC is able to stay afloat due to government funding.

Clark said the Canada Council for the Arts (CCA) has given them a 35 per cent deposit on the operating funding for the 2021 season. “They’ve also indicated, and already funded us with an additional more than 25 per cent of the funding that we get from CCA. The province stepped up with a grant that is an addition to our core operating support, and the city has approved the funding that we typically get for next year.”

Clark says there are still immense challenges for the company and the road ahead is still unknown.

“What a loss it would be for a company like Ballet B.C. to lose these incredible artists and athletes that we have as a part of the company if they’re not able to work for more than 6 months which is probably likely at this point.”

Clark says dancers can’t even rehearse in studios due to physical distancing protocols— instead resorting to practising in kitchens and living rooms which is not sufficient.

“They need to be in close proximity, if not actually touching each other, so it is difficult for us to try to plan out the coming season in regards to what we can perform whether it be on a small stage or a large stage such as the Queen Elizabeth Theatre,” said Clark.

For now, Clark is in initial talks with the Vancouver Art Gallery to possibly collaborate on more intimate, socially distant shows as an alternative.“We’re trying to be creative and innovative so that we can present via digital media as well as in intimate environments such as art galleries, museums, or other alternative spaces.”