Cary Petrusek: A Hurricane Hero

Asheville Ballet’s studio was devastated in the storm—right at the start of Nutcracker rehearsals. With their main income generator at risk and students left without a space to rehearse, it could have been the end of a cherished tradition.

That’s when Cary Petrusek, owner of WNC Dance Academy, stepped up. Instead of seeing them as competition, she saw an opportunity to lift them up—ensuring that dancers could continue their training and that the show could go on. She freely opened her doors, offering rehearsal space for free and inviting their students into her classes. Her generosity ensured that young dancers across the community wouldn’t lose the opportunity they had worked so hard for.

Cary’s selflessness and commitment to the arts are a true testament to the power of community. Without her, Asheville Ballet’s season may have been lost. Instead, because of her kindness and leadership, an entire dance community was able to recover and thrive, and we are proud to honor her as part of Appalachian Phoenix.