Howard Park finds natural fit

Howard Park Wines has signed up as a new sponsor for the West Australian Ballet’s upcoming season of Tchaikovsky and The Nutcracker, with the winery having deep roots in the art form.

To coincide with the partnership launch, the winery will be launching its new Petit Jeté method traditionelle sparkling at the West Australian Ballet Centre this month, named after the ballet term meaning ‘small throw’.

WA Ballet artistic director Aurelien Scannella said he was elated to have a family-owned business backing the WA Ballet.

“The synergies between (both) are undoubtable,” he said.

“Both have a strong history in Western Australia and create beautiful, world-class products.”

Howard Park said it had long been inspired by ballet due to its family roots, with the siblings of owner Jeff Burch being former ballet dancers.

David Burch worked as principal dancer with The Australian Ballet from 1977 to 1983, while sister Lesley worked with WA Ballet from 1972 to 1977.

“The entire Jeté sparkling range is an ode to their history as professional dancers,” Howard Park said.

General manager Natalie Burch said the family connection to ballet was important and meaningful so sponsoring WA Ballet was a natural fit.

“We like to honour our ballet heritage where possible,” she said.