Cocktails on Pointe

Ballet Palm Beach Raises the “Barre” during Cocktails en Pointe at The Colony Hotel 

Ballet Palm Beach began its season en pointe—literally and figuratively—with an unforgettable evening of elegance and impact. On October 9, nearly 100 guests gathered inside the iconic Colony Hotel for Cocktails En Pointe, an exclusive fundraiser benefitting the company’s Pointe Shoe Fund. Hosted by Erin and Sean McGould, the soirée welcomed Palm Beach’s arts patrons, supporters, and ballet enthusiasts into The Colony’s vibrant ballroom for an evening where fashion, philanthropy, and fine art seamlessly met. 

Executive Director Colleen Smith highlighted the importance of pointe shoes, one of

the most critical tools for professional dancers. Each pair is custom-made, and dancers often go through multiple pairs per season. “Like every professional athlete, having proper equipment is vital—not just for performance, but for safety,” Smith explained.

Funds raised throughout the evening help offset these essential costs, ensuring dancers can perform at the highest level. The message came to life moments later when company dancer Simone Williams took center stage to demonstrate pointe shoes in action. She was joined by fellow Ballet Palm Beach dancers for a performance from Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty. 

Following the performance, Smith unveiled the highly anticipated season lineup at the Kravis Center for the Performing Arts. Highlights include Queen Esther (March 6–8), Carmen (April 10–11), and the grand mainstage production of Giselle on May 16. Guests were also encouraged to secure tickets early for the coveted January 28 Gala by the Sea, which is expected to sell out.

The evening concluded on a high note as guests mingled with dancers and explored a curated showcase of Robert James Luxury handbags, with a portion of proceeds benefiting Ballet Palm Beach. The atmosphere remained lively, chic, and celebratory—perfectly mirroring the spirit of the company itself.

Cocktails En Pointe was sponsored by Erin and Sean McGould, Florida Power & Light, Palm Beach Illustrated Magazine, Legends Radio, WLRN, and Robert James Luxury.