I was really upset to hear the news form Florida Ballet this week. That they need 500K just to finish the season. I really hope that they current economic downturn doesn't claim any more ballet companies.

I think you're referring to Ballet Florida (in West Palm Beach), not Florida Ballet (in Jacksonville). Here's a link to Ballet Florida's web site:

http://www.balletflorida.com/index.cfm? ... &x=5935125

Ooohhh man, that is not good news at all. I hope they can pull through and raise the funds they need.

It's happening everywhere... and we haven't seen the last of it yet... I wish, I just wish, ballet and dance companies would be a little more forthcoming in sharing with the public the challenges in fund development *before* it's too late.

I don't know if this is the case in Florida. Too often I've stood next to an Artistic Director or Executive Director telling a member of the press or the public that everything's fine, leaving everyone with the idea they don't need help. The motivation I believe is to avoid appearing like a sinking ship.

How about instead saying something like, "We've got a plan but it will be challenging" or "It's been a tough year and we're not out of the woods yet but supporters like you will help steer us in a positive direction"?

Or am I out in left field here?

Azlan, I too agree with you and feel that you have to tell the story like it is, good or bad, and always sooner than later.

Whenever I ask that same question to AD's, ED's, etc. the answer is usually something like, we try not to disclose negative financial info because people generally don't want to be associated with a failing organization. Or, people/supporters/donors don't want to contribute hard earned dollars if it is being mis-managed.

I think it is a tough scenario to take one side or the other on because each organization is different and difficult sometimes dire circumstances present themselves to each organization. However, at the end of the day I am with you 100% on the fact that problems CAN be presented to the public in a manner that WILL encourage support.

Regarding Ballet Florida, I really hope they can pull through this. It would be a shame to loose one of the very very few ballet companies we have in state of Florida.

I'm going to be in Boca Raton this week; I'll be interested in what people have to say.