Centennial State Ballet (CSB) is presenting a sensory-friendly ballet event, Brunch of Ballet, on Sunday, April 27 at The St. Vrain in Longmont. With softer music, minimal theatrical effects, and an informal vibe, the performance is designed to make ballet welcoming and enjoyable for families with young children and individuals with disabilities. The event will include a relaxed, mini-performance of excerpts from CSB’s full-length Cinderella, set in a casual brunch atmosphere.
“Our goal with Brunch of Ballet is to make ballet approachable for everyone,” said Kathryn Rogers, Artistic Director of CSB. “It’s an up-close, hands-on experience that allows families to appreciate the beauty of ballet in a more laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.”
Attendees can move freely, take breaks, and interact with dancers in costume, making the event ideal for those who may have difficulty sitting for longer periods of time or find traditional performances overwhelming.
“We want to make ballet an option for all audiences, especially families with young children who might find traditional theater settings challenging,” said Moriah Sullivan, executive director and co-founder of CSB. “This is a great way to experience the magic of ballet without the pressure of a more formal environment.”
The performance highlights dancers at all stages of training, from six-year-olds to CSB’s most advanced performers, offering a glimpse into the progression of ballet education. “The beauty of Brunch of Ballet is that we can give our dancers at all levels the chance to perform,” Sullivan said. “This gives the young kids a chance to see what they can achieve one day, and it also lets our more advanced dancers share their talent in a smaller, more intimate setting.”
Both Rogers and Sullivan have existed in the ballet world for decades. Rogers trained at the Kirov Academy of Ballet and performed with The Colorado Ballet, taking on roles such as Clara in The Nutcracker and Princess Florine in The Sleeping Beauty, before beginning her work with CSB. Sullivan began her training in 1976 and performed with Maryland Regional Ballet for 13 years before returning to ballet when she moved to Boulder.
Ballet has traditionally been seen as very elite, in Sullivan’s experience, but CSB doesn't subscribe to that stereotype. “We really are a community first,” she said. This philosophy is reflected in CSB’s inclusive programming, where dancers of all skill levels are encouraged to shine.
In partnership with St. Vrain Valley Schools, CSB brings ballet directly to students, expanding arts access across the district. “It helps make ballet more accessible to young people who may not have otherwise had the opportunity to experience it,” said Sullivan.
This year’s Brunch of Ballet marks a hopeful beginning for a growing tradition. While the event will only be doing one seating, it may grow in the future, according to Sullivan.
The event reflects CSB’s mission to engage, enrich, and inspire through exceptional youth ballet education, performance, and community outreach. “Our vision is to bring the beauty of classical ballet to the community through expressive performance, and this event is a direct reflection of that vision,” said Rogers. “We want to connect with all members of the community, whether it’s through our community engagement programs or our performances like Brunch of Ballet.”
As CSB expands its outreach, Brunch of Ballet offers a meaningful step toward greater inclusivity. “It’s a close-up experience. This is ballet! Come in and experience it right in front of you,” Rogers said.
Brunch of Ballet takes place Sunday, April 27, at 11:30 a.m. at The St. Vrain (365 3rd Ave, Longmont). CSB’s full-length Cinderella will be performed at Niwot High School Auditorium on May 17 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., featuring live music, elaborate costumes, and a magical pumpkin carriage.
General admission tickets for Brunch of Ballet are $38 and tickets for CSB’s full-length Cinderella range from $27 to $32. Tickets for both events can be purchased online beforehand at www.centennialstateballet.org/upcoming-productions.
