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Founded in 1988 by acclaimed choreographer Francis Patrelle, Dances Patrelle is a New York City-based nonprofit ballet company dedicated to bringing stories to life through dance.
 

For nearly four decades, the company has created and presented original ballets that blend classical technique, theatrical storytelling, and a deep love of community. From beloved holiday traditions to imaginative new works, Dances Patrelle has provided meaningful performance opportunities for professional dancers, emerging artists, and young performers while inspiring audiences of all ages.
 

Dances Patrelle is perhaps best known for The Yorkville Nutcracker, Francis Patrelle's iconic New York City adaptation of the holiday classic, which has delighted generations of families and introduced countless children to the magic of ballet.
 

At the heart of the organization is a belief that dance should be welcoming, joyful, and accessible. Whether on stage, in the studio, or throughout the community, Dances Patrelle strives to create artistic experiences that celebrate imagination, excellence, and human connection.
 

Today, under the leadership of Artistic Director Christopher Charles McDaniel, Dances Patrelle continues to honor Francis Patrelle's extraordinary legacy while embracing new opportunities to engage artists, audiences, and communities throughout New York City and beyond.

 

Francis Patrelle, Founder

Christopher Charles McDaniel, Artistic Director

Justin Allen, Managing Director

 

Ben Travis, Technical Director

 

Ballet Staff

 

Ilona Wall, Artistic Advisor & Repertory Director

Becka Vargus, Children’s Repertory Director

Talia Kurlanski, Children's Coordinator 

 

Stephen Campanella, Rehearsal Director

Elizabeth Portnoy, Rehearsal Director

Valerie Gonzalez-Molina, Rehearsal Director

Miranda Berlin, Rehearsal Director

Sarah Feliciano, Rehearsal Director

Yukiko Kittaka, Rehearsal Director

 

Production Staff

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Shelby Marquardt, Production Stage Manager

Geoffrey Jones, Videographer

Eduardo Patino, Photographer

Michelle Tabnick, Publicist

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Blythe Colombo, Wardrobe Manager

Sarah Cardenas,  Wardrobe Associate

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Board of Directors

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President,  Abi Stafford Lillo

Treasurer, Samantha Cohen

Secretary, Diana Pan

Graciela Espana

Elisabeth Halfpapp

Juliet Hernandez-Eli

Natalie Barak

Elizabeth Portnoy