The Truth is Out There

Man, this has been an interesting few days!

My family and friends have been touching base with me every few hours this week with delicately worded questions like "Well... do you think you still have a job?" and "Have you heard anything yet??" as a result of the constant barrage of newspaper articles about the Ballet in OKC. Here's the latest.

So, to dispel any concern or confusion, it does appear that I still have a job, even though at this time, Tulsa Ballet and Ballet OK will not be collaborating. I am initially a little disappointed. More than a few dance companies (Florida Ballet, Texas Ballet Theatre) have restructured or combined (with great success) to become a more formidable presence in the dance industry, and I feel like Ballet OK really missed the boat here. I'm also a little disgusted at the prevailing hostility between the Tulsa and OKC communities- so unnecessary! But, I've been around long enough to know that what appears to be a missed opportunity can turn into a very positive thing. I've also learned (from the big M) that to achieve something great, you have to be extraordinarily patient.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect about all of this is the way people react to something, even when they don't know any of the facts. I've read blog postings and comments this week that just baffle me.

I think most Oklahomans are aware of the situation with SemGroup, our major donor, right now. I have been so appalled at comments about the company and TK- a man I know to be business savvy and incredibly generous- that I've had to stop reading them. I'm digressing, but my point is this- people assume they know what's going on and are so quick to pass judgement. If anything, I am now resolved to keep my mouth shut about situations in which I'm not privy to all the information. And that's the end of my tirade.

Anyway, thanks for your concern, everyone. For now, I'm still here carrying on our original plans. And trying to relax. :)