Performance Transcript: Opening Remarks for The Joffrey Ballet: American Icons

Hello everyone, and welcome to Northrop. My name is Kristen Brogdon. I’m Northrop’s director of artistic and community programs, and I’m so glad you’re here to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of The Joffrey Ballet.

I’d like to begin with gratitude to the voters of Minnesota. You’ve made possible a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Voters, give yourselves a round of applause! We’re also grateful to our ENCORE sponsors PNC Bank, RBC Wealth Management, and the Graduate Hotel.

Northrop is rooted in Minnesota, a name inspired by the Daḳota name for this region, Mni Sota Makoce, the land where the waters reflect the skies. We are proud of and thankful for our place here as part of a public university. We also acknowledge that this land has complex and layered history. I invite you to remember that Northrop is located within past, present, and future homelands of Dakota people. We show up in support of Native and Indigenous culture builders, and if you’d like to join us in that effort, I encourage you to visit the Walker Art Center to experience their gallery installation by Rosy Simas.

Land acknowledgement is one of the ways we educate our campus and community about our relationships with the land and each other. We are also responding to our history by welcoming you to Northrop. You belong here, whether you’re here for the first time or have been attending for decades. How many of you are here for the first time tonight? Welcome. Regulars, thank you for your ongoing support, and please join me in helping our newcomers feel at home.

Here are a few reminders for community care: First, please silence your phones and other devices that make noise. Second, this performance has two intermissions, and I invite you to use that time to connect with other people in the theater or in the lobby. Third, we have a sensory lounge on level one if you or anyone with you needs a break at any time. Let’s continue to show each other the care we’ve practiced as Minnesotans in recent months.

Our next dance event at Northrop is Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater on April 18 & 19. Tickets are going fast, and I hope we’ll see you again soon.

Now, please join me in a warm Northrop welcome for the artists of the Joffrey. Thank you!