Phyllis Rothwell Affrunti

Phyllis Rothwell Affrunti began her training in North Carolina and continued at the Academy of the Maryland Youth Ballet. During this time she became one of 20 dancers from across the country to study at the Chautauqua Institute with Jean Pierre Bonnefoux, Patricia McBride, and Violette Verdy. At 17 Phyllis was accepted on full scholarship to the Rock School of the Pennsylvania Ballet and performed with the company. She later performed many principal roles that have included several Balanchine works while dancing with Southern Ballet Theatre and as a Principal with Charleston Ballet Theatre. In 2003 she joined Ballet Idaho/Eugene Ballet under the direction of Toni Pimble. In 2004 she was promoted to Principal where she continues her career as a principal dancer with Ballet Idaho under the direction of Peter Anastos. Phyllis has taught dancers from the tiniest of tiniest to professionals. She has taught in summer programs throughout the country as well as being a guest instructor at Universities. Currently she is on staff at Ballet Idaho teaching both students and adults and continues to be sought out for private classes by students. Phyllis is excited to be a part of the ArtsWest staff!!