As lovers of architecture, ballet, and cocktails alike, we were COLLECTIVELY thrilled to attend two amazing Ballet West events this past Saturday. It was a salute to the end of the 2015 ballet season, and a special close to one chapter, in particular; prima ballerina, Christianna Bennett, retired after her final performance the same evening in Innovations. All told, the company had her grace and talent for sixteen (!) years, and Saturday's festivities were a proper/loving farewell to a beautiful dancer.

The fun started before the ballet, with a private event at Squatters, where guests saw the business end of hors d'oeuvres and cocktails and enjoyed a bit of pre-performance mixing and mingling. Post Innovations, the evening moved to the fantastic, new rooftop patio of the Jessie Eccles Quinney Ballet Center (a sublime spot with nighttime city views to accompany the champagne). This is where gaggles of well-dressed ballet fans were met with specialty cocktails, bubbling champagne, music, and the good company of newly-retired Christianna. The affair was equal parts elaborate, fabulous, and congratulatory--a fitting farewell to one of SLC's most applause-worthy talents.

Additional photos from the evening can be found here.