Beer and Ballet, a fundraiser for Ballet West, was a magnificent event. Guests enjoyed an elegant gala (with beer!) and a preview of “The Rite of Spring.” Epic Brewing co-hosted the evening, providing bottles of a few of their most popular brews. Mingling in the lobby of the beautiful Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre, delectable bites were served by The Annex, Epic’s gastro-pub located in Sugarhouse, in addition to Epic Brewing’s ales and lagers. I happily used my three drink tickets (and one of my husband’s) on the Spiral Jetty IPA. Food and beer lines moved quickly and service was friendly.

Munching on bruschetta and quiche while enjoying the libations, my husband and I admired the interior and elegant turn-of-the century architecture. The Capitol Theatre, located in the very heart of the city, was built in the early 1900s and has become a landmark in Salt Lake City. Visiting the theatre makes me happy; my dad was a security guard here for many years. I remember the backstage door, walking around on stage, mesmerized by the ballet dancers rushing to and from practice. After a recent facelift, the iconic building is as impressive as ever, and ready to perform for another 100 years.

Ballet West’s resident choreographer Nicolo Fonte reinvented “The Rite of Spring” to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Ballet West. The avant-garde production caused a riot in the audience when it premiered in Paris in 1913. (A riot at the ballet—possible new band name?) “The Rite of Spring” has been revised many times. Fonte’s version was awesome and I couldn’t look away. The choreography was remarkable and gorgeously different from other performances I’ve seen—I’m happy to report there were no riots.

Ballet West and Epic Brewing are two of the reasons Salt Lake is so unique, and they make a great couple for a night of fun. Beer and Ballet is an annual event and usually sells out, so make sure you’re paying attention next year! Follow Ballet West on Facebook and Twitter. Epic Brewing can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.

Check out Logan Sorenson’s photos of the event here.