Congratulations to Fox Theatre matriarch Mary Strauss, whose longtime support of Saint Louis Ballet and her lifelong dedication to the St. Louis arts community was recognized during the company’s 2022 Spring Gala. Strauss was honored with a special award by Saint Louis Ballet executive and artistic director Gen Horiuchi during the evening’s program, which also featured a performance by the company’s dancers.
“Mary is one of the first major donors who recognized our quality of work from day one,” Horiuchi told Gazelle. “I remember Mary came to see our performance; the next day, she said to me, ‘I’m happy to be on your board, I want to help you.’ During my first meeting with her, she showed up with a legal pad, asked how she could help and started writing things down. She was looking ahead at what this organization could become. Her unconditional support and belief in my vision from the beginning helped take us to the next level.”
Click here to view the complete gallery from the Saint Louis Ballet’s 2022 Spring Gala, Starry Night.