A Midsummer Night’s Dream Comes to Life at Fête 2026

This article is produced by TRIBEZA as sponsored content.

Ballet Austin’s Fête 2026 took its inspiration from the stage, with an evening inspired by Artistic Director Stephen Mills’ production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” On Oct. 16, 365 guests gathered for cocktails, a three-course dinner and dancing, raising more than $550,000 for the organization’s artistic programming and education initiatives.

The festivities included a live auction with plenty to tempt guests dreaming of their next getaway. Up for bid were trips to Big Sky, Montana; Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and Spain, along with a private dinner with John Carver at The Kimberly. After dinner, DJ Cassandra kept the celebration going on the dance floor.

1

5

Paul Bancroft and Clara Bancroft. (Photo by Ben Porter)

2

5

Stephen Mills and Graham Reynolds. (Photo by Ben Porter)

3

5

Paula Kothmann, Dwight Thompson, Cathy Thompson and Becky Beaver. (Photo by Ben Porter)

4

5

Tina Austinson and Ben Woods. (Photo by Ben Porter)

5

5

Steve Adler, Graham Reynolds and Diane Land. (Photo by Ben Porter)

VIP guests spent part of the evening in the TRIBEZA VIP Lounge, where they enjoyed tequila and rum tastings, a St-Germain and Grey Goose swag bar, and live music by the Huston-Tillotson University Jazz Faculty.

Founded in 1956, Ballet Austin creates original productions and provides access to dance through its performances and programs. The nonprofit also owns and operates a training facility in downtown Austin.

RELATED: The Art and Storytelling Behind Ballet Austin’s Costumes

1

7

Co-Chairs Kate Stoker and Melissa Constantinides. (Photo by Ben Porter)

2

7

Cookie Ruiz, Darlene and Dan Byrne. (Photo by Ben Porter)

3

7

DJ Cassandra. (Photo by Ben Porter)

4

7

Forrest Preece, Linda Ball and Scott Blalock. (Photo by Ben Porter)

5

7

Ashley Wills and Jason Wills. (Photo by Ben Porter)

6

7

Ballet Austin Fête emcee Lauren Petrowski. (Photo by Ben Porter)

7

7

Aara Krumpe and Nidhi Nakra. (Photo by Ben Porter)

What’s next onstage

The celebration continues throughout Ballet Austin’s 2026-27 season, with four productions coming to the Long Center:

• “The Nutcracker” | Dec. 4-23: Austin’s holiday tradition returns for its 64th annual production, following Clara from a festive party to the Land of Sweets. The Austin Symphony Orchestra will provide live accompaniment.
• “Director’s Choice / Rhythm of the Heart” | Feb. 12-14: Two contemporary works explore rhythm, melody and the connections that shape us.
• “Roses for the Last Dance” | March 19-21: A trio of dances considers love and human connection, from intimate moments to collective strength.
• “Giselle” | May 7-9: The Romantic-era ballet tells a tale of love, betrayal and redemption, set to a score by Adolphe Adam.

Learn more about the season and find tickets on Ballet Austin’s website.