In Memoriam
Richard M. Ivey, C.C.
The National Ballet of Canada lost a cherished friend with the passing of Richard M. Ivey on December 28, 2019.
Mr. Ivey first saw The National Ballet of Canada perform in London, Ontario and later became a subscriber with his late wife Beryl when they moved to Toronto.
Over the past decade, Mr. Ivey became an important supporter of new productions, beginning with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland which premiered in London, UK and then appeared during the company’s 2010/11 season. This was followed by his involvement with a second Christopher Wheeldon work, The Winter’s Tale. Last season, Mr. Ivey funded Anna Karenina and this season lent his support to Karen Kain’s new Swan Lake, which will premiere in June.
Mr. Ivey’s unwavering commitment has enabled the National Ballet to bring numerous new creations to the stage, delighting audiences in Canada and abroad, inspiring our dancers and advancing our art form.
An inspired philanthropist, Mr. Ivey touched many lives with his generosity in so many spheres, and he will be dearly missed by the National Ballet community.