SF Ballet Lovers, You’ve Got to Get on The List

The San Francisco Ballet
The San Francisco Ballet

Photo Credit: ©Erik Tomasson

“I’m on the list.” Being able to say those four magical words before walking into a restaurant opening, musical performance, celebrity happening, or any exclusive event really is powerful. It grants you an all-access pass to the good life and let’s you waltz by the regular people who are forced to wait in a dreaded line. Who doesn’t want to be on the list? Certainly not us—and probably not you. Which is why we’re letting you in on one of San Francisco Ballet’s little known perks. Allow us to introduce you to The List, a rush ticket program for savvy ballet lovers, age 21-39.

John Macfarlane designed the set of Liam Scarlett’s new full-length ballet, Frankenstein
John Macfarlane designed the set of Liam Scarlett’s new full-length ballet, Frankenstein

Photo Credit: Courtesy of the Royal Ballet

Started in 2014, The List is a way to make the Ballet more accessible to young audiences. Since we are huge fans of the ballet, we’ve been on The List since its inception. Here’s how it works: you simply sign up on the Ballet’s sleek and informative website. Next you send in a screenshot of your ID proving that you meet the age requirements. Once you’re in, you’ll receive emails with super cool promotions and incredible last-minute tickets. During the company’s repertory season, which runs from now until May 7, List members receive an email on Mondays with details of the that week’s ticket availability. Next week the Ballet is performing the United States premiere of Frankenstein, a new-full length ballet by Liam Scarlett. On Monday, February 20, the email will share when List members can by $25 tickets to see Frankenstein. The amazing thing is the List tickets aren’t in the nosebleed section—they are simply any empty seats that are open. Listers, who can purchase up to four tickets at a time, can score third row orchestra seats with amazing views of the stage at a fraction of the price of season ticket holders.

Dancers Joseph Walsh and Maria Kochetkova sign copies of the Look Book during last year Sensorium event.
Dancers Joseph Walsh and Maria Kochetkova sign copies of the Look Book during last year Sensorium event.

Photo Credit: © Erik Tomasson

Last year we saw over half the programs through the List and it was phenomenal! The List also has limited-time offers, prizes, and insider events that allow unparalleled access to the Ballet. Think tours of the school and company’s Franklin Street facility and meet-in-greet with dancers. Being a List member also gives you pre-sale ticketing prices to Sensorium, the Ballet’s third-annual sensational one-night only event that gives a totally new perspective to the world of classical dance.

The transformed Opera House lobby at Sensorium 2016
The transformed Opera House lobby at Sensorium 2016

On Tuesday, March 21, the War Memorial Opera House will be transformed into an innovative play land. The lobby will be filled with pop-ups where one can learn about choreography, costuming, and more. Last year guests mingled with Kate Share, the Ballet’s manager of wardrobe, wigs, makeup, and costume construction, while getting an up-close-and-personal view of Swan Lake’s costumes. There was also a toe-shoe information center, outrageous decorations, and video installations. Sensorium is hosted by James Bunkhouse, a local artist and former Twitter employee who will welcome guests before the 8:30 p.m. show of Diamonds and Fearful Symmetries. After the performance, everyone will head downstairs to the Opera House basement for a fabulous dance party featuring DJ Chris Clouse. Sensorium is not to be missed and another reason why you should sign up to be on The List!