Since 2017, a remarkable group of local philanthropists—known as the Dream Team—has made it possible for South Carolina Ballet to present its spring productions with the full splendor of live orchestral accompaniment.
In this milestone 65th Sapphire Anniversary Season, the Dream Team once again rises to the occasion, generously funding the South Carolina Ballet Orchestra for both Saturday evening performances of Nutcracker as well as A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Their steadfast support has given us unforgettable music for productions including Swan Lake, Romeo & Juliet, and our 2017 staging of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
This season’s Midsummer carries special significance as it marks the 200th anniversary of Felix Mendelssohn’s original score. Though not widely known, Mendelssohn’s composition is among the few written specifically for ballet. Within it lies one of the most iconic pieces in Western musical history—the Wedding March in C Major. First composed as incidental music for A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the march gained worldwide fame when it was performed at the wedding of Victoria, the Princess Royal, daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. A devoted admirer of Mendelssohn, Princess Victoria’s choice of the march helped cement its place as a timeless wedding tradition.
We are deeply grateful for the Dream Team’s vision and generosity. Their contributions continue to elevate South Carolina Ballet’s performances, ensuring audiences experience ballet as it was meant to be—brought to life through the power and beauty of live orchestral music.
This season also marks the second year of the South Carolina Ballet Orchestra under the direction of Scott Weiss, whose leadership furthers this artistic vision. Together with the Dream Team, we celebrate a legacy of excellence and a future filled with unforgettable performances.