Ballet Hispánico raised more than $1,465,000 during its 56th anniversary gala held on April 23 at New York City Center and The Plaza.
The funds will support the organization’s artistic, educational, and community outreach programs, including $265,000 specifically for scholarships at the Ballet Hispánico School.
The event honored Donald B. Verrilli Jr., the 46th Solicitor General of the United States, with the 2026 Civic Inspiración Award. Verrilli was recognized for his landmark victories in the Supreme Court and his dedication to civic leadership. Choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa received the 2026 Artistic Inspiración Award for her work in reshaping contemporary ballet across more than 89 global companies.
The evening featured the opening night performance of the company’s annual season at New York City Center, titled MUJERES: Women in Motion. The program showcased work by three Latina choreographers: Cassi Abranches, Stephanie Martinez, and Lopez Ochoa.
“Ballet Hispánico is the nation’s leading Latino dance company and the largest cultural institution of its kind in the United States,” the organization stated. “Recognized as one of America’s Cultural Treasures by the Ford Foundation, Ballet Hispánico continues to redefine what it means to be an American dance company.”
Attended by more than 330 guests, the festivities included dinner and dancing at The Plaza with music by the three-time Grammy Award-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra and performances by students of the Ballet Hispánico School.
The gala was chaired by Jody and John Arnhold, Richard Feldman, Kate Lear and Jonathan LaPook, David Pérez, Joseph Wayland, and Patricia Verrilli. Major support for the organization is provided by the Arnhold Foundation, Mellon Foundation, and the Howard Gilman Foundation, among others.
••••• Message Center••••
Lily Vakili is set to release her intimate six-song Live Wire EP May 8 (pre-save here). Recorded with her collaborator, the Grammy-Award winning, Emmy-nominated producer/engineer Reed Turchi, Live Wire an old-school, live in-studio, audio and video recording of songs named for what fans and critics alike say is a perfect description of her charismatic performance style. She will be playing a special EP release show in NYC on May 6 at Francis Kite Club – get tickets here and in Philadelphia May 20 at Nikki Lopez – get tickets here.
Follow us on social media: Facebook • Instagram • Threads • X • Bluesky • Tiktok • Reddit
Looking for news and events beyond NYC? Finding Connecticut and Finding The Hudson Valley have the latest happenings just north of the city!
Let’s create with Victory Designs
Need help with your creative needs? Our team has 20+ years of experience with Adobe, Shopify, and WordPress, and we offer affordable graphic design and web services. Let Victory Designs assist you with bringing your ideas to life.
Share your New York City experiences on instagram #findingnewyorkcity
Save on CBD!
My name is Jillian, and I am the editor here at Finding New York City. When I came across New England Hemp Farm a few years ago, I had recently had my ankle fused. New England Hemp Farm’s Sports Relief Rub and 500 MG Full Spectrum CBD Oil have helped with everyday and weather pain.
Finding quality products that can improve your day-to-day life can be tough, but with New England Hemp Farm, getting a good night’s sleep or relieving your pain and anxiety has never been easier. Plus, using our code NYC35, you’ll save 35% on your first purchase. Let us help you find relief and savings with New England Hemp Farm.
Products we use here at Finding New York City include Sports Relief Rub • 500 MG Full Spectrum CBD Oil • Pet Drops• Pet Treats