Florida Estos

Members and friends of Kesk Florida Eesti Selts/Estonian Society of Central Florida were delighted to attend Azara Ballet’s engaging performance titled “Encore” on November 14 and 15, 2025, in the Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota (FL). 

Martin Flowers (Roosaare), Azara Ballet’s co-founder and resident choreographer, graciously extended complimentary tickets to the Estonian community so we could become acquainted with this exciting professional ballet company. As one might correctly guess from Martin’s name, he is originally from Estonia. In 2022, he co-founded Azara Ballet with his partner Kate Flowers, Azara Ballet’s Executive Director and Associate Artistic Director. Please visit the Azara Ballet website to learn more about this unique professional ballet company and its schedule of upcoming performances.

“Encore” reprised five stories that had been performed by the company prior to this weekend. The highlight for the members of the Estonian community and culminating story danced by the company was “Kodumaa,” choreographed by Martin himself. We cannot give a better description than that written in the program: “Exploring Estonia’s liberation from the Soviet Union in 1991, commonly referred to as the ‘singing revolution,’ Martin weaves a mesmerizing story using the expressive language of dance, set to the evocative backdrop of Estonian music and compositions.” From our perspective—though we admit to having tears in our eyes at the conclusion—all audience members—as visibly moved as we—understood Estonia’s struggles and triumph as our story was told through Martin’s “Kodumaa.”

We hope that word will spread broadly about Azara Ballet and specifically about Martin’s “Kodumaa.” Estonians near and far would be fortunate to have an opportunity to be mesmerized too. If you would like to watch the show at home, please click this link here to purchase a digital ticket.

Martin Flowers (Roosaare) (center) is flanked by Astrid and Heinar Normet and Lisa Mets and Anneliis Kuusik, Matti Rukholm, Birgit DeLaidatti, Rein Allikberg and Ilvi Jõe Cannon, Riverview Performing Arts Center, Sarasota (FL), November 15, 2025. Photo was taken by an Azara Ballet company volunteer.