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Orlando Ballet Moves Forward After Mold Shutters Its Current Home


September 10th, 2013 | WMFE - The Orlando Ballet has been ousted from its current home by a mold problem. Until last month, the ballet was renting space at the 112-year-old Dr Phillips Center for the Performing Arts for just a dollar a year.

In late August, ballet staffers reported a foul odor to building owner OUC. An air quality test released Monday revealed the presence of a mold which can cause or aggravate respiratory problems. 

The organization faces lost revenue from canceled classes and the prospect of paying full rent for a specialized dance facility. But Ballet Managing Director Katherine Fabian says the community is already stepping forward to help.

"Walt Disney World Resorts has offered us a free temporary rehearsal home for our professional company – they’re rehearsing on the basketball courts at Wide World of Sports,” says Fabian. “Disney has also stepped up to clean all of our costumes – over 5,000 pieces – and Mears Transportation has offered some free and reduced-cost busing.” 

Fabian says the Orlando Magic is also providing dancer transportation to the Kissimmee rehearsal space, and Lake Highland Preparatory School is offering space for some classes.

Fabian adds that professional shows at the Bob Carr will go on as planned, and she hopes this season’s record ticket sales and more help from the public will keep the Ballet moving.

 

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