During my very first interactions with San Francisco Ballet in the 1980s, I remember thinking two things: that the artists and staff were remarkably friendly, and that this organization was on the verge of something special. Helgi Tomasson had just stepped into his role as Artistic Director and Principal Choreographer; his presence and talent indicated something important was about to happen. I didn’t know that this would last more than 30 years, or that I would be around for nearly all of it!
As I prepare to retire at the end of June, I’m remembering the years I’ve spent at SF Ballet fondly. This timeline weaves together key moments in my time here, important projects and tours I’ve overseen alongside Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson, some of my favorite ballets, and important SF Ballet milestones.