FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 3, 2026

Contact: Hannah Hockersmith

Email: Hannah.Hockersmith@gmail.com

Cell: 480.313.2995

Free Ballet Performance Brings World Premieres and Professional Guest Artists in Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre’s “Celebration” on June 12.

Photo by Ryosuke Taniguchi.

More photos and videos available here.

TEMPE, AZ — Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre (SWYBT) invites the community to its annual end-of-season performance, “Celebration,” on Friday, June 12 at 7:00 p.m. at Tempe Center for the Arts. This free performance features a dynamic program of classical ballet excerpts, original world premieres and special guest performances by acclaimed professional dancers.

The evening highlights the artistry and achievements of SWYBT’s pre-professional dancers alongside newly created works by distinguished choreographers. Audiences will experience the world premiere of “Clock In,” choreographed by Helio Lima, and “Broken Vessel,” a new work by Ballet Arizona resident choreographer Nayon Iovino. The program also includes a vibrant character dance staged by Pasha Getman.

A special guest appearance by former Ballet Arizona principal dancers Nayon Iovino and Jillian Barrell Iovino will feature a performance of the pas de deux from Iovino’s acclaimed 2018 work, “Inherent.”

The performance concludes with selections from the beloved classical ballet “Paquita,” showcasing the technical excellence and energy of SWYBT’s dancers.

Admission is free, but tickets are required and can be reserved through Tempe Center for the Arts. Complimentary parking will be provided and validated by the venue, making this a truly cost-free and memorable evening for families, arts enthusiasts and community members of all ages.

Free tickets are available now at tempecenterforthearts.com. For more information about Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre, visit SouthwestYouthBalletTheatre.org.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST YOUTH BALLET THEATRE
Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre Inc. is dedicated to the development and advancement of ballet students 13-18 years of age who aspire to a professional career in ballet. Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre Inc. not only provides excellence in pre-professional training and achievement in artistry, but also provides a variety of educational outreach and community outreach programs for the enrichment of our communities. Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre Inc. receives its artistic guidance from renowned principal dancer, Yen-Li Chen, who serves as the Artistic Director. The mission of Southwest Youth Ballet Theatre is “To inspire dreams, participation, community and excellence through the gift of dance.”