Bringing the world’s best dance, to Bend
Ballet Bend is a professional dance presenting company providing access to world class performances and education to the communities in Central Oregon. From classical to contemporary, we feature world-renowned guest artists that celebrate, elevate, and advance the art form of dance.
THE MARRIAGE OF MOVEMENT AND MUSIC – WHERE THE ATHLETE AND ARTIST BECOME ONE.
Biography
Peter Franc
For the past 20 years, Peter danced around the world as a Soloist and Principal Dancer for several renowned classical and contemporary ballet companies including Houston Ballet, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, and Oregon Ballet Theatre. Upon retiring from the stage, he next served as Artistic Director of Oregon Ballet Theatre expanding the company’s repertoire across 3 seasons presenting 18 company and world premieres. Always feeling most at home in the mountains, Peter now brings his passion for exciting and innovative dance works to Bend.
Upcoming Performances
Fall 2026
VORTEX by: HUMANHOOD
PRISM by: Tentacle Tribe
Board Members
Thomas Bruner
Principal, Bruner Strategies
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Thomas is a respected organizational development strategist and consultant with deep experience guiding mission-driven organizations through change. As Principal of Bruner Strategies, he works with nonprofits and social enterprises to strengthen governance, structure, and sustainability. Previously, Thomas served in key leadership roles, including as interim leader at Oregon Ballet Theatre, where he helped restore the organization’s financial stability and operational health. His insight into organizational development and board effectiveness makes him a cornerstone of Ballet Bend’s governance and growth.
Dr. Amy Benton, PT, DPT
Owner, Prime Performance
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Dr. Amy Benton is an owner of Prime Performance, a leading provider of concierge Physical Therapy, health and performance optimization services based in Portland, Oregon. Amy is a leading expert in dance and performing arts rehabilitation. She is the Physical Therapist for The Portland Ballet and BodyVox dancers, and frequently provides care for touring Broadway shows, and dance companies visiting Portland. Amy has served on the Board of Directors for the Portland Ballet for the past 6 years and counting. With a background as both a dancer and physical therapist, Amy brings over 20 years of combined performance and clinical expertise to supporting the health, strength, and artistry of dancers.
Charlie Wintch
CEO “me, Charlie”
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Charlie combines the analytical precision of a chemical engineer with the discipline of a lifelong dancer, having trained en pointe for 14 years. As CEO of “me, Charlie”, a genderless skin care brand personalized for the individual, Charlie fuses science and artistry in step with Ballet Bend’s inclusive ethos. For the past seven years, Charlie has also served as a Director for High Desert Chamber Music, helping bring world-class performers to Central Oregon. Outside of her laboratory, Charlie races Porsches and motorcycles, plays multiple instruments, and champions access to dance for all ages.
Matt Watson
CEO, Watson Creative
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Matt brings over two decades of creative leadership to Ballet Bend’s board. Before founding Watson Creative, a brand and strategy agency supporting dozens of arts and culture organizations, including the Oregon Cultural Trust, he spent more than a decade at Nike and earlier in his career with the New York–based branding firm Lippincott. He served six years on the Oregon Ballet Theatre Board, his last seat as Vice Chair, and currently acts as Treasurer for the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) in Oregon and SW Washington. Matt also contributes to statewide initiatives through his work with Travel Oregon, Oregon Wine, and Central Oregon Tourism. His strategic vision and dedication to creative equity continue to strengthen Bend’s growing arts community.
Sanda Stein
Registered Nurse & Aesthetic Specialist
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Sanda Stein bridges the worlds of healthcare, aesthetics, and wellness with a philosophy rooted in compassion, authenticity, and holistic self-care. After earning her nursing degree in 2016, she built a diverse career spanning psychiatric and women’s health before pursuing advanced aesthetic training at the Pacific Northwest Aesthetics Academy. Her approach centers on helping individuals feel confident and connected to their most genuine selves—inside and out.
Currently working toward her doctorate to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, Sanda brings a deep understanding of emotional well-being and human expression to her professional practice and community work. As a board member of Ballet Bend, she integrates her insight into wellness, identity, and empowerment to support the organization’s mission and outreach.
A lifelong lover of the arts, Sanda views dance as a transcendent and unifying experience—one that invites people to connect, celebrate individuality, and create moments of magic together. She believes the world needs more of these shared, beautiful experiences to foster empathy and belonging.
Darren Riley Marshall
CEO, Steven Smith Teamaker
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As CEO of Steven Smith Teamaker, Darren leads one of Oregon’s most respected consumer brands, overseeing product innovation, supply chain, and omnichannel growth. He brings extensive executive and brand-building experience, alongside deep ties to the arts community. Darren has previously served on the Oregon Ballet Theatre board as the Chair of the Finance Committee, and stewarded the Steinway & Sons business worldwide as its Chief Marketing Officer. His blend of operational expertise and passion for the arts strengthens Ballet Bend’s business acumen and creative partnerships.
Allison Lyneham
Former Chair, Oregon Ballet Theatre
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Allison combines a lifelong dedication to dance with extensive nonprofit leadership and financial expertise. A School of American Ballet alumna and SAB Advisory Committee member and former Chair of the Oregon Ballet Theatre Board, she has guided organizations through significant transitions in both governance, budgeting and programming. Her firsthand understanding of ballet, coupled with experience navigating complex institutional challenges, brings Ballet Bend invaluable perspective. Allison’s connections within the broader arts community and commitment to advancing access to dance enrich the organization’s vision and outreach.