June 6 , 2006

The USA International Ballet Competition (USA IBC) has been designated as a “Top 20 Event” by the Southeast Tourism Society. This recognition is given to outstanding events taking place in the south, and the society sends its list of winners to more than 300 newspapers, magazines and broadcast stations. In addition, the list is circulated to 125 AAA publications.

“We’re so gratified that the Southeast Tourism Society has chosen to recognize us with this distinction yet again,” said Sue Lobrano, executive director of the USA IBC. “This is the sixth time in our organization’s history to be selected as a Top 20 Event.”

The Southeast Tourism Society began the Top 20 Events Program in 1985 to recognize the unique, diverse and unparalleled events in the region, bringing more publicity and widespread recognition to the best events the Southeast had to offer.

The USA IBC is a unique festival of dance with more than 100 competitors from over 20 different countries, which is scheduled take place June 17-July 2 at Jackson’s Thalia Mara Hall. This festival of dance offers a variety of events including spectacular dance performances, a companion International Dance School and Teacher’s Workshop, art exhibits, luncheon programs featuring discussion with dance experts and featured performances by well-known companies such as Garth Fagan Dance and Ballet Hispanico.