There is no substitute for the maturity, artistry and skilled focus that a seasoned performer brings to a role. During her 15 year history with the Company, Bon Ellis was truly such a dancer. She represented the very essence of a romantic dancer with her exquisite classical line and ethereal style. She illustrates both on-stage and off, the beauty and discipline inherent in the highest standards of dance. Today as ballet mistress of the Company, as she did as principal dancer, she provides an example and inspiration to all the younger dancers in the Company.

Bon Ellis began her dance training with Sallie Carlson, founder of the Augusta Civic Ballet, as one of the Company´s youngest members. Continuing her studies with Ron Colton, she became known as a lyrical and poignant performer receiving national critical notice as a soloist in the Augusta troupe´s first SERBA Gala performance of "Symphony 13." While attending the North Carolina School of the Arts as a merit student, Bon spent her summers studying with the School of American Ballet, the Joffrey School, the Atlanta Ballet and the Twyla Tharp Workshop. After graduating with a bachelor´s degree in philosophy from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, Bon opened her own dance studio in Albany, NY and performed with a theater/jazz group there. Since 1985 Bon has been a teacher and the business administrator of the Augusta Ballet School. Several of her most notable roles with the Company include Myrta in "Giselle," "Incident at Blackbriar," "Hearth of Embers," "Cranes," the Dewdrop Fairy in "The Nutcracker," and Carmen in Peter Powlus´ "Carmen." Bon originated the role of the ill-fated Lucy in Peter Powlus´ "Dracula" and Lady de Winter in "The Three Musketeers." She also appeared in Augusta Opera productions of "The King and I," "My Fair Lady," "Carousel," and "The Merry Widow." After so many years behind the footlights, Bon is now eager to launch her new career as ballet mistress for the Company.