Capitol Ballet Company and April Berry

In the Kennedy Center Concert Hall in April 1987, there was a gala benefit, “A Salute to Doris W. Jones: A Lady With a Vision,” honoring the cofounder and artistic director of the Capitol Ballet, Washington’s unique multiracial classical troupe. The event was intended to start the ball rolling toward resumption of the company, possibly by the next fall. Louis Johnson, assisted by Keith Lee, produced and directed the entire gala. April Berry, a member of the Capitol Ballet, performed at this gala.

Sources:

Tribute For The Troupe, The Washington Post

More About April Berry

April Berry has served as dance director, master teacher, educator, and dancer. She studied at National Academy of Ballet, Theatre Arts in New York, The Ailey School, and Dance Theatre of Harlem. Ms. Berry has worked closely with many of the most celebrated choreographers and dance artists of the 20th century. She is a certified master instructor in Dunham Technique, having successfully completed all certification requirements after extensive work with American modern dance pioneer, Dr. Katherine Dunham. Ms. Berry has danced the signature choreographies of Dunham, Lester Horton, Alvin Ailey, George Balanchine, Talley Beatty, Todd Bolender, Donald McKayle, and Hans Van Manen, as well as in works by other renowned choreographers from the world of ballet, modern/contemporary, and jazz dance. She served as the artistic director of Dallas Black Dance Theatre in 2014 and has taught at schools like University of North Carolina.

 

Sources:
April Berry, MoBBallet.org

 

 

Alisha Naidu