Departures, Central West Ballet Dancers continue on to Education and Other Fields.

Central West Ballet has had to say goodbye to many talents over the years. Many outstanding dancers have moved on to colleges and universities. This side of the Company's path to more than just a career in dance has always been tradition. Chief among these departures is Joseph Adkins, long time Principal Dancer (read the article on Adkins).

Adelina Milano, who was an important Soloist and who originated many delightful dances during her years with the Company will continue to be involved with Central West Ballet behind the scenes. Daveluy says she has developed into a multi-faceted creative artist. "Adelina, like all her other siblings, is very entrepreneurial and creative on so many levels". Daveluy also mentions her talent for choreography. "Adelina has already choreographed well crafted pieces during our choreographic workshops and I look forward to see her develop in that arena".

This year, the Company looses two of it's young cherished dancers who have made a genuine positive impact on everyone. Liana Yates and Kylie Welch, both soloists with the Company have become ballerinas in their own right and two of the strongest headliners in recent years. "Liana is artistry personified", says Artistic Director René Daveluy, "I have watched her tirelessly working on all of her roles over the years". Daveluy says Yates could have easily continued to a career in dance but that he is happy for her venture into Education. "Liana was accepted into Stanford, it's a wonderful achievement and we applaud her endeavors". Kylie Welch, who has become a leader in the Company is another great dancer whom Daveluy mentored over the years. "Kylie is a true professional", Daveluy says with pride, "I have seen her take charge within the troupe and have admired her consistent performance qualities. She also has become a great partner for duets and Pas de Deux work". Daveluy says Welch is going to keep dancing through UC Irvine's dance program. "Kylie will always be a dancer at heart" Says Daveluy, "that was clear from the start when I first saw her step into the studio".

Among other departures is Gabriella Moore, who had joined Central West this year. Moore is returning back to Utah at this time but Daveluy says she has already contributed to the Company in wonderful artistic ways. "Gabriella is a lovely person and a great performer. What she brought to the Company was a passionate spirit and showstopping performance qualities".

Rachael Jensen and Evelyn Felix, two solid dancers from Sacramento, are also moving on. "Rachael and Evelyn brought a lot to the Company throughout the year", Daveluy says, "they are meticulous workers, wonderful persons and I am sure their perseverance will pay off". Daveluy also mentions the wonderful work of CWB Artist Caitlin Roach, who joined the Company this year. "Caitlin was an examplary member", says Daveluy, "she was very professional in her ethics and was a very hard worker".

Daveluy says he is aware of a few others who are considering options at this time but that it only means that the Company is going through a natural change over. "I have seen it all in my career", he goes on to say, "these are the natural comings and goings of artists once you hit a certain amount of years into any ballet company". Indeed, Central West has seen many of its talents move on to the field of Education or into a career in dance in other companies. "What remains", Daveluy says, "are bonds and friendships that last a life time. This is what makes Central West such a great environment to experience".