WITH dwindling audience and patronage, the performing arts seem to be gasping for breath. But young benefactors like Sofia Zobel-Elizalde, 40, are throwing a life raft, particularly to the world of dance.

She belongs to the new breed of patrons who are making a difference in the lives of talented performers. Her natural leadership, drive to succeed and generosity of spirit make her the perfect cover material for the December issue of Philippine Tatler.

She was photographed by Denise Weldon-Miñana whose photographs she has a collection of. It was shot in her new residence designed by Anna Sy?s firm and decorated by Yola Johnson.

Sofia started training at Ballet Philippines (BP), then studied in London when her father Jaime Zobel de Ayala, was ambassador to the Court of St. James. She returned to BP as one of its strong soloists and did such memorable roles as the dramatic Carmen in the modern ballet of the same name, and the imperious Myrtha in ?Giselle.?

When her parents left the BP board, she quit the company to pursue a college degree and start a family. She married her childhood sweetheart, dashing businessman Patxi Elizalde, and became a devoted mother to Patxito, Bea and Cristina.

She established Steps Dance Studio which has been a benchmark for high-quality dance education. Between teaching dance and family life, she would be involved in other civic projects or play the quintessential hostess in her home.

As board member of BP, Sofia is out to raise audience interest by hitting two birds with one stone. On the one hand, BP presents ballet previews at Greenbelt 5 to tap a new audience. On the other, she revived the excitement of opening nights, particularly the glamorous black-tie gala to launch the season. She used her connections and charisma to raise funds for the productions.

Coming from a family of philanthropists and art lovers, Sofia has organized a foundation for dance scholars at Steps Studio, has kept street boys away from trouble by getting them into ballet, and has used her personal funds to send dancers for jobs overseas. Many dancers abroad owe their careers to her generosity of spirit.