Judge dismisses some claims in a $10.5 million lawsuit against the Richmond Ballet, but allows the plaintiff to amend her case.
A judge in Richmond, Virginia, has ruled on a $10.5 million lawsuit filed by a former student of the Richmond Ballet, finding that most of the claims did not have sufficient evidence to support them. However, the judge did allow the plaintiff to make changes to her lawsuit, leaving the door open for a potential trial. The lawsuit, which accuses the ballet company of promoting dangerously low weights and causing eating disorders and other health issues, also alleges physical and psychological abuse. The Richmond Ballet has denied the allegations and filed motions to dismiss the lawsuits.
Allegations of Low Weights and Eating Disorders
The former student, along with another former dancer, filed civil lawsuits against the Richmond Ballet, claiming that they were pressured to maintain dangerously low weights in order to perform. They argue that this led to the development of eating disorders and other health issues. The lawsuits also accuse the ballet company of physical and psychological abuse and exploitation. The plaintiffs are seeking a total of $21 million in damages.
Richmond Ballet’s Denial and Motions to Dismiss
The Richmond Ballet, the state ballet of Virginia, has vehemently denied the allegations made in the lawsuits. The company filed motions to dismiss the cases, arguing that they lacked a cause of action to proceed to trial. The ballet company maintains that it has always prioritized the safety and well-being of its students and dancers.
Judge’s Ruling and Dismissal of Claims
After a hearing on one of the motions, Judge Bradley Cavedo ruled that the former student did not provide sufficient evidence to support most of the claims in her lawsuit. He dismissed three claims outright but allowed her claims of battery and assault to proceed to trial. The judge sustained the motions to dismiss claims for punitive damages and negligent and intentional infliction of emotional distress, among others. However, he granted the plaintiff the opportunity to amend her lawsuit with more specific details.
Room for Amendments and Potential Trial
Judge Cavedo’s ruling allows the former student to re-file her lawsuit with changes, addressing the deficiencies pointed out by the court. The judge found that the claims of battery and assault against Igor Antonov, the artistic associate and Richmond Ballet II director, had sufficient evidence to survive the motion to dismiss. The ruling gives hope to the attorneys representing the former dancers, who plan to file an amended lawsuit in the case involving the ex-student.
Statements from Both Sides
Attorneys representing the former dancers expressed optimism about the judge’s ruling, emphasizing the importance of the case and the well-being of the plaintiffs. They argue that the ballet company prioritized appearance over the safety and welfare of its students. On the other hand, a representative for the Richmond Ballet stated that the company was pleased with the ruling and would vigorously defend its reputation. The ballet company has consistently maintained that it provides a safe and supportive environment for aspiring dancers.
Conclusion: While a judge dismissed some claims in a $10.5 million lawsuit against the Richmond Ballet, the former student has been given the opportunity to amend her lawsuit. This ruling allows for the possibility of a trial and keeps the allegations of battery and assault against a ballet director alive. The case raises important questions about the well-being of dancers and the responsibility of ballet institutions to prioritize the safety of their students. As the lawsuit moves forward, it will be crucial to examine the evidence and hear from both sides to determine the validity of the claims made against the Richmond Ballet.
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