Sarasota Ballet's annual gala dons London theme

Cocktails, dinner and, of course, dancing — first by the professionals and later by partygoers — marked the success of the Sarasota Ballet’s annual gala April 28. The dancers of the ballet first put on a special performance at the Sarasota Opera House before the party moved to the Circus Arts Conservatory, where the evening continued with dinner and dancing.

In a nod to the ballet’s upcoming premiere international tour, the event celebrated with a London theme. It also honored longtime ballet supporters Bud and Betty Shapiro.

Funds raised from the gala benefit the Sarasota Ballet, which includes its professional company as well as its education and community programs.