PHOTO: The Music Center | The South Pasadenan | The Music Center Mourns the Passing of Glorya Kaufman
We 🖤 Our Readership – Big News Coming Soon, Stay Tuend!
The Music Center is mourning the loss of philanthropist Glorya Kaufman, whose visionary gift established Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center—a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ cultural landscape since 2009.
Rachel S. Moore, president and CEO of The Music Center, released the following statement:
“The Music Center and our Board of Directors are profoundly saddened to learn about the passing of Glorya Kaufman. An extraordinary champion of the performing arts and the dance field, in particular, Glorya was the catalyst for the growth of The Music Center’s acclaimed dance series, which is named Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center in her honor. Her gift to The Music Center has made it possible for us to bring the joy and beauty of dance into the hearts, minds and souls of countless Angelenos and visitors from around the world. As a result of Glorya’s significant visionary leadership and generosity, Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center today stands as a vital part of Los Angeles’ cultural fabric. We are honored to call Glorya a cherished friend and a devoted supporter of our work. We convey our heartfelt condolences to Glorya’s family and friends and will dedicate our upcoming 2025 – 2026 season of Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center to celebrate her legacy.”
Glorya Kaufman’s Transformative Impact on the Arts
In 2009, Kaufman made a groundbreaking $20 million gift to The Music Center—marking the largest single donation for dance in Los Angeles history. This gift established a new chapter for the performing arts center by allowing it to present a diverse range of world-class dance companies, including The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Royal Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Ballet Hispánico, among others.
As a result, the organization renamed its flagship dance series Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at The Music Center, beginning with the 2009–2010 season.
A National Legacy of Dance Philanthropy
Glorya Kaufman was also known for her generous contributions to dance institutions nationwide. Her foundation supported the creation and growth of several high-profile programs, including UCLA’s Glorya Kaufman Dance Theater, The Juilliard School, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and the USC Glorya Kaufman School of Dance.
She was the widow of Donald Kaufman, co-founder of KB Homes. Her legacy continues to shape the future of dance education and performance across the United States.