Who: Ballet Hispánico
What: Virtual golden anniversary celebration
Where: Ballet Hispánico online, Facebook, YouTube
When: Friday, May 28, free with RSVP, 6:30 (available on demand for two weeks)
Why: Manhattan-based Ballet Hispánico was founded in 1970 by Tina Ramirez with a mission to “bring communities together to celebrate and explore Latino cultures through innovative dance productions, transformative dance training, and community engagement.” It has been doing that for half a century and will be celebrating that milestone with a live anniversary gala on May 28 at 6:30 (and will be available on demand for two weeks). “50 Years of Dance, Orgullo, Education, Sabor, Access, Amor, Community, Espíritu, and Innovation” will feature premieres by Lauren Anderson, Ana “”Rokafella” Garcia, and Belén Maya alongside works by Graciela Daniele, Ann Reinking, Geoffrey Holder, Nacho Duato, Pedro Ruiz, and Gustavo Ramírez Sansano. The event will be hosted by artistic director and CEO Eduardo Vilaro and School of Dance students Chelsea Phillips and Theo Adarkar, with special appearances by Anderson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Luis Miranda, Ben Rodriguez-Cubeñas, Rosie Perez, and Darren Walker. “We are honored to be joined by such an amazing group of artists and supporters to commemorate the legacy and future of Ballet Hispánco,” Vilaro said in a statement. “The past year has been a challenging time for everyone, and we look forward to this opportunity to gather with our beloved community virtually and safely to perform for you, to honor our roots, and celebrate our heritage and growth.” Be sure to also check out BUnidos, the company’s online programming that includes dance films, classes, “Motivational Mondays,” and the upcoming Instituto Coregráfico.