History

In 1995 the River Region Ballet, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization was established to introduce ballet classics along with contemporary ballet works to both dancers and patrons in the outlying areas of New Orleans. For twenty years the company was led by founding Artistic Director, Susan Ferrara. In 2025, after completing their 30th season, the company was reorganized and changed their name to Ballet Images, Inc. 

Under the artistic direction of Katelyn Fitts, Ballet Images continues to be a catalyst for dance and the arts in southern Louisiana. The organization ensures quality dance productions totally produced within the community. Ballet Images also offers ballet training in the form of classes and workshops taught by professional ballet educators. Education does not end with the dancers. The company endeavors to bring free ballet performances to the community through local nursing homes and libraries. 

Since 1995 the ballet company has performed a full length production of The Nutcracker every December. In 1998, a Spring Concert was added to the ballet company’s season. The Spring Concert opens the doors to many more ballets for our dancers and audience to explore and experience. The company’s repertoire ranges from classical to original works, from excerpts to full length ballets, including: Cinderella, The Sleeping Beauty, La Bayadere - Kingdom of the Shades, Swan Lake Act II, Giselle Act II, Les Sylphides, La Boutique Fantasque, The Fairy Garden, Royal Mischief, Passagesand Thumbelina. 

Dancers are chosen through open auditions based on ability, dedication and responsibility. Ballet Images is committed to diverse inclusive casting without regard to color, national origin, sexual orientation or gender identity. Dancers come from the River Parishes, the Bayou Parishes and the Greater New Orleans area. The performance opportunities provided by Ballet Images allow dancers to meet, dance with, and observe professional guest artists contracted for each production. The inspiration given by these professionals is priceless to aspiring dancers. 

The Board of Directors and the many volunteers are dedicated to promoting the arts in southern Louisiana. The hope is to instill a devotion to the arts, particularly ballet, in all the dancers who embrace the opportunities bestowed through this organization, so that they may spread their own enthusiasm throughout the community.

Ballet Images, Inc. mission is to promote the arts, through classical ballet performance, education and community outreach in souther Louisiana.