BMO Harris Bank is extending its sponsorship of Milwaukee Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” into a second year as the ballet prepares for its 44th annual performance of the holiday production this December.
BMO Harris Bank sponsored “The Nutcracker” last season as a “holiday gift to Milwaukee,” according to the bank.
“From a BMO standpoint, we talk about part of our corporate responsibility (as) giving back to the communities where we live and work,” said Jud Snyder, president of BMO Harris Equipment Finance Company.
“This was an opportunity not just to support the Milwaukee Ballet but to support a decades-long tradition,” said Snyder, who serves on the Milwaukee Ballet’s board of directors and executive committee and co-chaired the organization’s 2014 ball.
Along with ticket revenue, the Milwaukee Ballet relies on significant corporate support to bring the production to life. “The Nutcracker” is just one facet of BMO Harris Bank’s support of the ballet as the bank also backs its fundraising events and educational programs.
Snyder said BMO Harris Bank has a close relationship with the ballet and he hopes that the bank’s sponsorship of “The Nutcracker” is an “ongoing” one.
In honor of its renewed sponsorship for 2014, BMO Harris Bank will hold a string of special events during this weekend’s Gallery Night and Day, organized by the Historic Third Ward Association.
The events will serve to build awareness of the holiday performances and will feature live performances by Milwaukee Ballet dancers at the bank’s 770 N. Water Street location.
On Friday, July 25, the bank will host “Ladies Night” from 5 to 9 p.m. Along with watching live ballet and sampling “Sugarplum” desserts, attendees will be able to view an exhibit of “Nutcracker” costumes and props. On Saturday, July 26, the bank will offer free beginner ballet lessons for children from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and 3:30 to 4 p.m. Lessons will be taught by Milwaukee Ballet professionals.
The bank will also run ticket giveaways and promotions for “The Nutcracker” throughout the weekend.
The Milwaukee Ballet’s holiday performances will debut on Saturday, Dec. 13, and will conclude on Saturday, Dec. 27.
