New York, May 18, 2009 – That heightened sense of excitement among the glittering crowd at the American Ballet Theatre’s annual spring gala was due to a very special attendee, Michelle Obama.

Designer Carolina Herrera sponsored the ABT gala, drawing show biz personalities like Renee Zellweger, Mariska Hargitay, Claire Danes and Hugh Dancy, Lorne Michaels, Iman, Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos and Matt Lauer.  All were thrilled to be in the presence of the first lady.

Mrs. Obama spoke at the gala, and welcomed students from the ABT’s Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School for their first-ever performance at the Metropolitan Opera House.  “This dance academy is a wonderful legacy for a woman who dedicated so much of her life to making arts and culture accessible for all,” Obama said of former first lady Onassis.  Jackie O’s sister, Lee Radziwill and daughter, Caroline Kennedy, were there. 

The ballet was the last stop on Mrs. Obama’s day in New York City.  Earlier, she cut the ribbon on the newly reopened American Wing at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. 

ABT photos: Caroline Torem Craig