Ballet enthusiasts were thrilled to spend quality time with world-renowned ballerina Wendy Whelan, who retired as principal dancer with the New York City Ballet in 2014 following an extraordinary three-decade career. Whelan’s visit last Monday evening came at the invitation of Ballet Vero Beach Artistic Director/CEO Adam Schnell and included an exclusive screening of “Restless Creature: Wendy Whelan.”

Before heading over to the Majestic 11 for a viewing and post-film discussion, balletomanes mingled with Whelan at a reception at Quail Valley at The Pointe, delighted to learn that she was equally captivating off stage. The event was underwritten by Marion and Terry Martin, and Majestic 11 owners Kathy and Rick Starr.

“For me, it’s meeting your hero. She not only had an illustrious career but she also changed the industry in terms of longevity and what it means to be a ballerina of a certain age,” said an admittedly star-struck Schnell. “She’s now moved on to doing all these amazing things in contemporary dance at an age where ballerinas are supposed to have disappeared. To have someone here like her in our fifth anniversary season is just spectacular.”

For her part, Whelan was impressed with the accomplishments of Ballet Vero Beach, the only professional ballet company between Miami and Orlando.

“I think it’s amazing,” said Whelan. “I’m excited about this young energy that’s percolating and the intention that they have. It’s great for the dance world to have another destination to dance. And Florida in the winter? They’ll be flocking here.”

Marion Martin said they first saw Whelan perform in the 1970s, adding, “I would say that she is without question the most famous American ballerina. She is revered by fans, audience members and particularly by other dancers in the community. She’s frequently been a mentor to other dancers. Tyler Angle, New York City Ballet principal dancer, told me a couple of years ago that everything he learned about partnering he learned from Whelan. This is so special to have her here.”

“I’m really excited to meet her; over the moon. I love ballet,” said BVB board member Ann Alleva Taylor.

Of the world premiere of Nutcracker on the Indian River, taking place Dec. 29-30 at Vero Beach High School Performing Arts Center, Taylor added, “Ours is the only Nutcracker with a paid company of 40 professionals, along with close to 40 kids. It’s quite an undertaking.”

For more information, visit balletverobeach.org.