West Australian Ballet is proud to celebrate the remarkable contributions of Alexandra Burt as she steps down from her role as Patron of Private Giving after 18 years.
Appointed by then Chief Executive Steven Roth, Alex has been an integral part of the company’s journey, helping to cultivate a culture of philanthropy and financial leadership that has significantly shaped the organisation.
From the day she was appointed, Alex embraced the work required to help the company create and nurture the sophisticated philanthropic culture it has today. From her hours dedicated to two major capital campaign committees, to hosting fundraisers and donor events both privately and across Perth, and to the countless speeches, writings and interviews, Alex’s role has been key to the company’s success in this area.
Reflecting on her time with West Australian Ballet, Alex shared, “Over the past 18 years, I have seen so much growth, change, creativity, inspiration, craft, talent, joy, warmth and celebration in so many aspects of the company. I’m immensely proud to have been a part of it.”
Alongside her husband Julian Burt AM through the Wright Burt Foundation, they played a pivotal role in initiatives such as the Campione program, which has led to the creation of beloved works like The Nutcracker, Dracula and, recently, Butterfly Effect. Notably, their generosity included a groundbreaking quarter of a million dollars as Presenting Partners for Swan Lake. They have also committed to supporting the Campione for Macbeth and the upcoming national tour to Adelaide, marking the first time the company has toured there in more than two decades.
Their incredible contribution of $3 million to the West Australian Ballet Endowment – with $2.5 million being a matched gift – has significantly elevated the company’s future financial sustainability and present resilience.
Additionally, their long-term core funding has underpinned West Australian Ballet’s Performance Health department, directly impacting the artistic vibrancy and standard of the company, and ensuring essential support for its artists.
“Alex has been a passionate advocate for the arts and a driving force behind our growth and success. Her dedication, insight and generosity have left an indelible mark on our company, and her legacy will continue to inspire us as we move forward,” says West Australian Ballet Executive Director, Lauren Major.
“As she steps down from her role, we celebrate the incredible impact she has made and thank her sincerely for her extraordinary contribution and unwavering support. Alex will always be a cherished member of our ballet family.”
Alex will remain in the role until the end of the year and says, “The greatest reward from all my experiences and interactions with the company has come from its people. I have had the very great pleasure of meeting and working with outstandingly talented, generous people throughout the years and have learned an enormous amount. The joy of dance – glorious, moving, spirited dance – will always be in my heart.”
Alex and Julian will continue their support of West Australian Ballet through the Wright Burt Foundation.