Fireside Chat · September 29, 2026
Beyond the Stage.
An evening of artistry, shared experience, and belonging in ballet.
Ballet, through her eyes.
Soirée Social Club opened its 2026–2027 season with an intimate conversation at Gibney Studios, presented in partnership with Calvin Royal III. Joined by founder Ebony Renée Devereaux, Madison Brown reflected on her path in ballet, the relationships that have supported her, and the experiences that continue to shape her artistry. It was an invitation to know the person behind the performance, and to consider the place of Black artists within a form they continue to shape.
There is a place for our stories here—for the artistry we share, the legacies we carry, and the communities we build.
At the heart of Soirée
Belonging, in conversation.
To hear Madison speak about her experience was to spend time with the dedication, individuality, and sense of possibility behind her work. Mentorship, representation, and community gave the conversation its depth; sharing it with a room of artists and arts lovers gave it warmth. As guests stayed to connect over the reception, the evening became part of the tradition Soirée is building—a space where Black artistry is celebrated, its stories are heard, and we find one another through the arts.
With gratitude to Madison Brown for sharing her story, to Gibney for making us feel at home, and to every guest who helped bring this evening to life.