Nevada Ballet Theatre Honors Marie Osmond as 'Woman of the Year' for 2010 Black & White Ball

January 25, 2010 by VegasNews.com

Maria Osmond is 'Woman of the Year' at Black White Ball
On Saturday, Nevada Ballet Theatre has honored singer, author, television personality, Broadway performer and philanthropist Marie Osmond as its ‘Woman of the Year’ for its 2010 Black & White Ball (Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com). As one-half of the beloved singing duo “Donny & Marie,” this all-around entertainer was honored at the Champagne Ballroom at Paris Las Vegas.

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Born into an internationally known entertainment family, Osmond emerged on the country music scene at the tender age of 13 with her hit “Paper Roses,” making her the first female in country music history to debut with a number one record.

Nevada Ballet Theatre Honors Marie Osmond as 'Woman of the Year' for 2010 Black & White Ball

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Along with her six performing brothers, “The Osmond Brothers,” Marie was an instant sensation when she appeared on stage at a sold-out Madison Square Garden concert. She was soon touring with her famous brothers, forever changing the name of the group to “The Osmonds.” Grammy nominations for Marie as 1974’s “Best Female Country Vocal Performance” and “Best New Artist” soon followed, the beginning of the indelible mark she has made on the entertainment world.

Marie Osmond poses with the Chiguagua from the Fund Raising auction

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Always known for her kind-hearted nature, Marie co-founded the Children’s Miracle Network in 1982, the largest children’s charity of its kind in the world. Through over 170 Children’s Hospitals, more than 17 million children are treated for various health issues every year. Her charity has raised over 3.6 billion dollars to date.

Alicia Jacobs with the Chiguagua from the Fund Raising auction

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

“Nevada Ballet Theatre is honored to recognize entertainer Marie Osmond,” says Nevada Ballet Theatre Co-Founder and Co-Chair Nancy Houssels. “From her days on “The Donny & Marie Show” to her work with The Children’s Miracle Network, we are thrilled to celebrate her achievements and dedication to the world of arts and entertainment.”

Marie Osmond and comedian George Wallace

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Already an instant success as a Vegas headliner along with her brother Donny, Osmond’s ‘everyday’ values are a large part of her appeal, enabling millions of fans to identify with her and garnering her recognition as a role model for women throughout the world.

UFC fighter Frank Mir with his wife Jennifer Mir

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Surrounded by arts supporters as well as local dignitaries and celebrities, Maria accepted her ‘Woman of the Year’ award in the Champagne Ballroom at Paris Las Vegas, following an elegant evening of cocktails, dinner and lively entertainment. This year, in place of a VIP reception held prior to the event, guests were treated to a special VIP post Black & White Ball Meet and Greet with Osmond.

Ballroom dancers at the Black & White Ball

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Since 1985, the Black & White Ball has been a societal main stay in the city of glitz and glamour. Honoring legendary females who have positively impacted the performing arts, this annual fundraiser supports the state’s largest professional ballet company.

Ballroom dancers at the Black & White Ball

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com

Past honorees of the Black & White Ball read like a who’s who of legendary women. Since 2001, Nevada Ballet Theatre has honored Debbie Reynolds (2001), Chita Rivera (2002), Carol Channing (2003) Celine Dion (2004), Ann-Margret (2005), Rita Rudner (2006), Paula Abdul (2007), Twyla Tharp (2008) and most recently Bette Midler (2009).

Proceeds from the evening will allow Nevada Ballet Theatre to continue to provide main stage productions by its professional company, quality dance training within its affiliated school, the Academy of Nevada Ballet Theatre, as well as through its Education and Outreach program, Future Dance.

The Black & White Ball in the Champagne Ballroom at Paris Las Vegas

Photo: © Erik Kabik/ RETNA/ www.erikkabik.com