BBT’s Ballet Ball FAQs

Know-Before-You-Go!

What does my ticket include?
Every ticket includes the performance, complimentary appetizers, desserts, beverages, and photobooth pictures in the lobby, and an invitation to join us on the dance floor to move and groove the night away!

What’s new or different about this event than last year’s Love BBT Gala?
This year we are reimagining our fundraising event to ensure our dancers of all ages and their families can attend! We’ve reduced ticket prices and offered sliding scale options to help support every interested family and friend to attend. We are also transitioning to appetizers and drinks (no sit-down dinner) so families of all ages can enjoy the evening.

Can anyone come?
Yes! We welcome dancers, siblings, friends, family and beyond.

Will I be expected to donate or spend money?
The Ballet Ball is the culmination of BBT’s Spring Pledge Drive so we will dedicate a part of the evening to asking the audience to make a gift in support BBT’s artistic programming. And, if a financial contribution is not right for your family at this time, we understand! Attending the event and having a great time already supports BBT’s community of dancers.

Can I get a refund if I am no longer able to attend?
All ticket sales are final, there are no refunds or exchanges. You are welcome to give your ticket to friends or family members to use. If you and your family need to cancel due to personal COVID-19 related issues, email natalia@berkeleyballet.org with as much notice as possible in advance for assistance.

What are the COVID-19 regulations?
Berkeley Ballet Theater and Oakland Scottish Rite Center will be following all current public health directives from state and local authorities. Masks are optional and not currently required. Entry requirements are subject to change.

How long is the performance and overall event? Do I have to stay for the entire time?
The performance is about 70 minutes with no intermission, starting at 7:30. We encourage audiences to arrive as close to the 6:00pm start time hour to take advantage of the appetizers, drinks, and raffle ticket sales! Following the performance, there will be a dance party with the musicians of Golden Bell music concluding at 10:30pm. Feel free to stay as little or as long as you like!

Do I need to print out my tickets?
Don't worry about printing the physical tickets that were sent to you! Screenshots are fine, just have your tickets ready to show the ushers to direct you to your seat. The Box Office will open at 5:30 and can look up your order if you need, just be sure to plan additional time.

How early should I arrive at the theater?
Plan to arrive as close to the 6:00pm event start time if you can! The event start time has time for mingling, enjoying the light bites and beverages, and participating in the raffle before the performance built in. Plan extra time for parking and potential traffic!

Can I eat or drink in the theater?
Since your ticket includes appetizers and beverages in the lobby before the show, you are also permitted to bring those with you inside the theater to enjoy while seated. Please be sure to bring any trash with you as you exit!

Where can I park?
Limited parking is available at the venue (behind the building) for this performance. Street parking and paid lots are also available in the area. Please plan additional time for parking and traffic, and be sure to check closing hours for paid lots, garages, or valet. Lake Merritt Bart Station is a ten minute walk away if you prefer public transportation.

What happens if I’m running late?
If the performance has already begun, for the safety and consideration of all guests, ticketholders arriving late may be asked to sit in a different section than your tickets indicate. You may also be asked to wait to be seated until an applause break.

Can I bring a camera and take photographs?
For the safety of the performers, photos or video recording is not permitted during the performance. Please also keep any cell phones, tablets, gadgets, or toys silenced and put away during the show. Fun photos in the lobby or of the dance party are totally welcome and encouraged, and don’t forget to get a moment in the photobooth!

Is the venue and theater wheelchair accessible?
Yes. There is a ramp at the Lakeside entrance to the theater, there are elevators to the fourth floor lobby, and accessible seats are on the floor without any stairs or obstructions to access. Restrooms are also accessible. Sections are marked as ADA in the seating chart to purchase when needed. If tickets in all ADA sections appear unavailable, please contact natalia@berkeleyballet.org.

Are there many stairs and steps in the venue?
This beautiful building was built in 1927, and while it has elevators to get to the fourth floor theater, there are a number of stairs or steps that are required to access seats in the Balcony sections, and 1-5 steps to access the Floor section seats. If you or someone in your party are unable to climb any stairs or steps, please select a seat in the ADA section or reach out to natalia@berkeleyballet.org.

For additional Box Office inquiries, please email Development and Communications Manager, Natalia Perez at natalia@berkeleyballet.org