TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN) — A months-long break from dance has been hard for company artists at Ballet Tucson like Casey Johnson.
"The analogy that comes to mind is 'a butterfly in a jar.' You can't do the things that you love to do everyday," said Johnson.
Ballet Tucson has performed only a few times for a small crowd since the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Before, their dancers rehearsed and took the stage from August through April.
"We depend very heavily on ticket sales. It's our primary source of income every season. To lose that income has been really devastating for our organization," said Ballet Tucson Media Director, Margaret Mullin.
That money helps pay their dancers, book venues, provide classes, costumes and more.
"We were there six days a week, eight hours a day. That was our main job," said Johnson.
In preparation for their 36th season, the ballet is asking for community support. They opened a virtual silent auction featuring Tucson businesses and are accepting bids until Saturday, February 20th.
"We have a goal of raising $40,000 dollars by March 1st in order to bring our dancers back," said Mullin.
Ballet Tucson also released a video that is free to the public. Company members share what dance means to them, especially through hard times.
"It's really wonderful to see how much work has gone on behind the scenes. As dancers, we're so grateful for that. It's been really uplifting and hopeful to see them working so hard," said Johnson.
To learn more about how to support Ballet Tucson, click here.