After more than a decade of taking the stage with Ballet Kelowna, senior artist Desiree Bortolussi will perform for a final time at the Kelowna Community Theatre this weekend.
In honour of Bortolussi’s retirement after 13 years with Ballet Kelowna, the senior artist will be featured in all three pieces of the program titled Ode, which is being shown on Friday and Saturday.
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Photo Credit: Dave MaiBallet Kelowna dancers Kurt Werner and Desiree Bortolussi in Cuatro Estaciones by Simone Orlando.
“While a bittersweet moment in Ballet Kelowna’s history, we are delighted to showcase Desiree’s artistry for Kelowna audiences, in what is sure to be an emotional, yet triumphant, farewell to a beloved company artist,” said Simone Orlando, Ballet Kelowna artistic director and CEO.
“For her final performances, we were eager to create a program that would highlight her exceptional breadth as a dancer, both in her ability to embody a wide range of roles as well as her technical mastery.”
Bortolussi was born and raised in Kelowna and has been with Ballet Kelowna since 2012 when she joined as an apprentice after training at the Canadian School of Ballet.
Photo Credit: Dave MaiArtists of Ballet Kelowna in Cuatro Estaciones by Simone Orlando.
“As I prepare for my final performance with Ballet Kelowna after 13 wonderful years, I’m overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude for the incredible memories throughout my rich career,” said Bortolussi.
“Ballet Kelowna has been my home – offering comfort, challenge, and an immense sense of pride. I’m deeply honoured to be featured in each piece on the Ode program and I can’t wait to share the stage with the talented dancers I’m fortunate to call both colleagues and dear friends.”
Following her ballet career, Bortolussi plans to begin a registered massage therapy course in the winter.
“We extend our sincerest gratitude to Desiree for her innumerable contributions to Ballet Kelowna and wish her a lifetime of health and happiness in her future endeavours,” added Orlando.
Tickets are available for the Friday and Saturday shows online at this link and both programs will begin at 7:30 pm at the Kelowna Community Theatre.
