To Our Valued Patrons

February 4, 2009

Dear Valued Patron:

As we begin our 76th season, we want to take this opportunity to thank you for your continued support of San Francisco Ballet, especially in these difficult financial times. SF Ballet is, of course, not immune to the effects of the global economic crisis and we want to share with you the steps we are taking to adapt to this challenging environment.

First, please be assured that we are united in our goal of continuing to present you with the best in world-class dance, while providing the finest ballet training for young people aspiring to professional careers in dance, and maintaining community access through our education and outreach programs.

Last fall, we began to take a strategic and very thoughtful approach to reducing operational expenses throughout the support areas of the organization, with the specific intention of maintaining our standards of excellence. Artistic Director Helgi Tomasson participated in this process and the Finance Committee of our Board provided valuable oversight. Overall, our goal for fiscal year 2009 was to realign our operating budget to match expense reductions to projected shortfalls in ticket sales and contributed revenue. A plan was designed with flexibility in mind so that we can respond quickly and strategically as the season progresses and financial information becomes clearer.  

The initial phases of this plan have already been implemented, garnering SF Ballet significant savings to match projected revenue shortfalls by reducing, and in some cases eliminating, certain operational expenses. Part of this contraction involved the regrettable, but necessary, reduction of some administrative positions. While we will be making adjustments to our touring schedule in fall of this year, our 2009 Repertory Season remains as scheduled.

Going forward, it is important to know that SF Ballet remains a healthy and financially stable world-class arts institution, thanks in large part to your generous and ongoing support. This commitment has been demonstrated through continued strong subscription and single ticket sales, as well as donations to our annual fund, and support of our endowment through gifts and bequests.

Helgi has planned a very full and exciting 2010 Repertory Season that we believe will continue to attract ticket-buyers and contributors. We maintain our commitment to the presentation of new work while preserving the highest standards of artistic excellence that are a hallmark of this institution.

 

Again, thank you for your generous support and commitment. Together, we will manage whatever the recession may bring so that SF Ballet can continue to serve the Bay Area as one of the most preeminent dance companies in the world.

With best wishes,

 

 

Glenn McCoy Executive Director	Richard C. Barker Chair of the Board and Executive Committee