Showing posts with label Ballet. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ballet. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

April 2014 D.C. Area Dance Events Guide



Washington D.C.




New York City Ballet: Emeralds
Photo © Paul Kolnik

The Kennedy Center
4/2 – 4/6, New York City Ballet: Jewels at the Opera House
Tickets: $25-$95
“Boasting "an impressive new generation of dancers" (The New York Times), the company performs Balanchine's dazzling full-length Jewels, plus a program of works by Christopher Wheeldon, Justin Peck, and Alexei Ratmansky.”



Atlas Performing Arts Center
4/5 - 4/6, Camille A. Brown and Dancers
Tickets: $20-$35.50
“Camille A. Brown has sought to defy the boundaries between dance and theatre.  Brown has been commissioned by the Ailey Company, Ballet Memphis, and the August Wilson Dance Ensemble, among others. Storytelling through dance and engaging social issues that persist among past and present, Camille A. Brown & Dancers present Mr. Tol E. RAncE, a piece inspired by the Spike Lee film, Bamboozled (2002) that explores the sustained racial archetypes of black performers while celebrating their tenacity and perseverance.”



Dance Place
4/5 at 8pm, Companhia Urbaba de Danca, Edgewood Arts Center
Tickets: $8-$22
“Founded in Brazil in 2004 by dancer Tiago Sousa and choreographer and Artistic Director Sonia Destri Lie, Companhia Urbana de Dança is an ensemble of street performers working to foster the human experience through dance. Destri’s boldly original mix of contemporary Brazilian dance and hip-hop infuses both forms with new rigor, meditative one moment, explosive the next.”



The Kennedy Center
4/6, 8pm One Mic: Breaking Form: global urban contemporary dance at the Eisenhower Theater
Tickets: $19-$50
“Hosted by Jonzi D, this showcase of hip-hop dance features Project Soul (South Korea), Sébastien Ramirez and Honji Wang (France), and Companhia Urbana (Brazil).



Joy of Motion
4/12 – 4/13, Dissonance Dance presents Black To Silver, The Jack Guidone Theater
Tickets: $18
“Black to Silver: A Black LGBT (now in its 2nd year), is a multidisciplinary arts production that examines and explores interpersonal relationships, identity and love within the African-American LGBT community.”



The Kennedy Center
4/15 – 4/20, American Ballet Theatre: Mixed Bill: Don Quixote and Works by Fokine, Ashton and Gomes, at the Opera House
Tickets: $25-$109
“ABT offers a feast of choreographic fireworks with its spirited staging of Don Quixote--praised for its "glorious passages of choreography" (The New York Times)--plus works by Michel Fokine, Sir Frederick Ashton, and Marcelo Gomes.”



The Washington Ballet
4/16 - 4/27, Peter Pan, The Kennedy Center, Eisenhower Theater
Tickets: $25-$125
“Take a high-flying adventure to Neverland with the The Washington Ballet's NEW Production of Septime Webre's dazzling Peter Pan. A swashbuckling coming of age tale that pits Peter and the Lost Boys against Captain Hook and his outrageous band of pirates, this whimsical adventure is told through vibrant dance. Peter Pan is a story about growing up that never seems to grow old.”



Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company
4/19, 1pm and 2:30pm, Premier of new work, The National Portrait Gallery, 1st Fl
Tickets: Free
“Choreographer Dana Tai Soon Burgess,Dancing the Dream artist-in-residence, has created a second site-specific work in response to the exhibition.”



The Washington Ballet
4/23 – 4/25, Tour-De-Fource: Balanchine!, The Kennedy Center, Eisenhower Theater
Tickets: $35-$12
“Only three performances! The brilliant next chapter of Tour-de-Force, a gala-style program of provocative and engaging, showstopping classical and contemporary ballets including Swan Lake, Flames of Paris, D-Construction and more. George Balanchine's Theme and Variations, the evening's centerpiece, evokes the great period in classical dance when Russian ballet flourished with the aid of Tchaikovsky's music. Only available to subscribers, Tour-de-Force is a season highlight not to be missed.

 

Washington Performing Arts Society

4/25 – 4/26 at 8pm, MOMIX Botanica, GWU Lisner Auditorium
Tickets: $28-$48
“With an eclectic score ranging from birdsong to Vivaldi, Botanica shows off the endlessly renewable energy of the superb MOMIX performers, with costumes, projections, and custom-made props and puppetry adding an extra dose of fantasy to the elixir. This is dance at its most organic and inventive. The seasons will never be the same. Co-presented with GW Lisner Auditorium and CityDance”
http://www.wpas.org/calendar/view.aspx?id=2355



Joy of Motion
4/26 – 4/27, Tappenstance In Concert!, The Jack Guidone Theater
Tickets: $12-$15
“Join JOMDC's resident adult tap company Tappenstance for our annual rollicking tap concert that'll have you keeping the beat in your seat! From 80's icons the Go-Go's to 00's R&B sensation Blu Cantrell, from North African Samba to Jackson 5 disco, you'll travel the world of music through the soles of our feet. Be sure to bring your tap shoes and show off your rhythms during intermission in our improv circle. 


 

MARYLAND

 
 
Cirque Ziva
Photo Credit: Amitava Sarkar
Strathmore
4/9 at 8pm, Cirque Ziva, The Music Center at Strathmore
Tickets: $26-$47
“Eye-popping fast-pace fun for the whole family! “Breathtaking! Cathedrals of contortionists in backbend rise before your eyes, body by body. Human obstacles, which tumblers flip over, widen in person-size increments. The thrill is escalation. These acrobats from China…keep topping themselves” (The New York Times). Catch the show before it debuts in New York City!.”

 
 

The Clarice Smith Center for the Performing Arts

4/12 - 4/13, Shared Graduate Dance Concert, Dance Theatre

Tickets: Free
“This concert features provocative choreography by Master of Fine Arts students in dance, focusing on new works in development. As the first opportunity for them to put material onstage and see what develops, it often contains the seeds of movement ideas that will be featured in their MFA Thesis programs — an unguarded exploration of their talents and interests.”
Dance Exchange
4/17 from 7-9pm, Showing and Critical Response Process feedback session w/ guest artist-in-residence Jessie Laurita-Spanglet, Dance Exchange in Takoma Park, MD
Tickets: Free
“This season, Dance Exchange brings the Critical Response Process HOME, offering our three Guest Artists-in-Residence the opportunity to share their dance-making with the DC-area community and to receive valuable feedback to shape and fine-tune their artistic products.”… “Facilitated by Dance Exchange staff and artists, these evenings will not only give audiences a chance to learn about these Guest Artists, but also the opportunity to see CRP in action.”
 


VIRGINIA






Moscow Festival Ballet, Swan Lake
Photo: Larissa Pedenchuk

George Mason University4/5 – 4/6, Moscow Festival Ballet, Concert Hall
Tickets: $28-$56
 
“This masterful corps of dancers presents a delightful afternoon featuring the most exquisite jewels of the ballet canon. This remarkable collection of ballet selections includes the highlights from The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Don Quixote; Fokine’s poignant "Dying Swan" set to music by Saint-Saens; Petipa's most loved gems from Paquita; and much more. This outstanding company from Moscow was founded in 1989 by legendary Bolshoi Ballet principal dancer Sergei Radchenko, who brought leading dancers from across Russia together to forge a new company dedicated to staging new productions of timeless classics in the grand tradition of Russian ballet. ‘The dancers of the Moscow Festival Ballet spoke to the soul through the body.’ (Post and Courier)”

Monday, March 3, 2014

March D.C. Area Dance Events Guide


Atlas Performing Arts Center
2/22-3/8, Atlas Intersections Festival, Multiple Atlas Locations
“INTERSECTIONS presents performances in music, theatre, dance, film, spoken word and performance art that offer new ways to see ourselves and to celebrate our community and our world.”

The Washington Ballet
3/5-9, BRITISH INVASION: The Beatles & Rolling Stones, The Kennedy Center, Eisenhower Theater
“When The Beatles and The Rolling Stones invaded America back in the 1960's rock 'n' roll changed forever. Relive this revolution inTrey McIntyre's A Day in the Life, an energetic, thrillingly visual and emotional journey set to classic Beatles' tunes. Through poignant lyrics, hard-driving guitar licks and strutting dance, Christopher Bruce's highly-acclaimed rock ballet Rooster, is the penultimate ‘battle of the sexes.’”

Christopher K. Morgan and Artists (CKM&A)
3/14-3/15 at 8pm, Dissolving, The Alden
“CKM&A returns for its third season at The Alden with an evening of mixed repertory. On the program will be the company premiere of Christopher K. Morgan’s 2013 work Selective Sync (originally commissioned by American University) and the world premiere of "Dissolving".  "Dissolving" artfully explores themes of water pollution and conservation, incorporating locally accumulated and collected rainwater into the performance. Choreographed by Morgan, and in collaboration with guest choreographer Dance Exchange Resident Artist Matthew Cumbie, the work features an original score by composer Jonathan Kolm.  Other CKM&A repertory will complete the program.”

Joy of Motion
3/15 at 8:30pm, 3/16 at 7pm Glade Dance Collective presents Wavelength, The Jack Guidone Theater
“In Glade Dance Collective's fifth year, we present our first full evening of exclusively Glade works. Witness the premiere of pieces exploring personal stories of transformation by our own Lauren Borchard, Jess Hoversen, and Betsy Loikow. You'll also see excerpts from Connections, Glade's collective piece sourced from audience interactions. And an audience favorite, District. Defined?, returns, showcasing the vibrancy and music of life in D.C.”

Washington Performing Arts Society
3/21-3/22 at 8pm, Koresh Dance Company, Lansburgh Theatre
“Join Koresh Dance Company for an eloquent and explosive program featuring Koresh’s choreography to classical favorites juxtaposed with contemporary and world music in an exploration of common rhythms. Known for an exciting and emotional blend of ballet, modern and jazz, the program will include excerpts from Koresh’s latest work Come Together, choreography set to Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata and Bach’s Air, and much more.”

Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company
3/22 & 3/29 from 11:30-3pm, DTSBDC Open Rehearsal, The National Portrait Gallery, 1st Fl
“Choreographer Dana Tai Soon Burgess,Dancing the Dream artist-in-residence, has created a second site-specific work in response to the exhibition. The Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company invites visitors to watch rehearsals and give feedback. Comments will be incorporated into the final work, which will premiere at on April 19.”

Dance Place
3/22 at 8pm, 3/23 at 7pm Rennie Harris RHAW, Edgewood Arts Center
“RHAW, Rennie Harris’ second company, presents dynamic performances of street dance, including: Campbell locking, popping & boogaloo, B-boy/girl, house and hip-hop social dance. Downplaying the abstract while pushing a dramatic aesthetic, RHAW forges new paths for young hip-hop hopefuls, and presents hip-hop in its “RHAW-est” forms.”

Dance Place
3/29-30, Telephone Dance Project at the DP2 studio in Brookland Artspace Lofts
“Telephone Dance Project (TDP), a long-distance dance collaboration, brings their unique site-specific improvisational performances to D.C. in a weekend full of dance. TDP will host an Improvisation Workshop at Dance Place, a Site-Specific Dance Exploration at the National Portrait Gallery, and a Salon-Style Show at Brookland Artspace.”

Atlas Performing Arts Center
3/29-30, Sannidhi (Sacred Space) with soloist Aparna Ramaswamy at The Theresa and Jane Lang Theatre
“Acclaimed Bharatanatyam soloist and choreographer Aparna Ramaswamy‘s choreography and performance have been described as “a marvel of buoyant agility and sculptural clarity” (Dance Magazine), “thrillingly three-dimensional,” and “an enchantingly beautiful dancer,” (The New York Times).”



MARYLAND

Baltimore Dance Invitational
3/6-3/9, The Collective and guests, Baltimore Theatre Project
“The Collective presents the 2nd Annual Baltimore Dance Invitational bringing together artists from the surrounding region for three showcase performances.”

Dance Bethesda
3/8 at 8pm, Dance Bethesda, Round House Theater
“Seven performers have been selected for the annual concert. Selected professional companies and choreographers include: Agency 9 (hip-hop), Bethany Disque (contemporary), Christopher K. Morgan & Artists (contemporary), Company Danzante (contemporary), Company E (contemporary), Nomad Dancers (inspired by traditions of India, Persia, Central Asia, Middle East, and Turkey) and Word Dance Theater (modern dance)”

The Clarice Smith Center for the Performing Arts at University of Maryland, College Park
3/12-3/14 at 9pm, MFA Thesis Concert: My Tempest by Ana Farfan, Dance Theatre
“A Prospero whose spells do not work anymore, a Miranda who does not love Ferdinand and instead wants to become a magician herself, an Ariel who is not interested in being released by Prospero … these challenging situations for characters from Shakespeare’s The Tempest live in Ana Farfán’s choreography, My Tempest.”

The Clarice Smith Center for the Performing Arts at University of Maryland, College Park
3/12-3/14 at 7:30pm, MFA Thesis Concert: Pleated by Stephanie Miracle, Dance Theatre
“Based on make-believe worlds, sibling rivalry and living-room dances, Pleated is a lively, imaginative choreography for three women.
Daring physicality and humble gestures are (re)constructed from personal memories and old home movies, creating autobiographical work that explores the brutal and beautiful landscape of growing up with sisters.”

Black Rock Center for the Arts
3/15 at 8pm, ClancyWorks, Black Rock Theater
“Local award-winning modern dance company returns to BlackRock with the world premiere of BenchMarks – which explored organizational partnering and deepened the artistic scope of dance in Montgomery County. The concert will also premiere By George!, a stunning movement display inspired by George Lewis and his Ragtime Band, jazz funeral music of New Orleans, choreographed by Bill Evans. See You Around, choreographed by Claire Porter and Sabatino Verlezza, combines subtle comedic moments and dialogue to create a highly entertaining and amusing dance theater piece that is not only humorous but thought-provoking. Finally, the concert will feature Displaced, choreographed by Susan Shields, an award winning choreographer described by The Washington Post as one of DC’s “best-kept secrets”. The company produces choreography that is physically demanding, powerful, evocative and profoundly human.”

Dance Exchange
3/20 from 7-9pm, Evening w/DX Green Choreographer Paloma McGregor, Dance Exchange in Takoma Park, MD
“In our second year of the Green ChoreographerResidency program, we are excited for Paloma McGregor, NYC-based movement artist, to share her work with the DX and DC-area community. Paloma is currently developing Building a Better Fishtrap, a multidisciplinary performance project that explores water, memory and home, as well as examines what we carry with us, leave behind and reclaim.” 

Black Rock Center for the Arts
3/29, Ballet Hispanico, Black Rock Theater
“Led by Artistic Director Eduardo Vilaro and founded by National Medal of the Arts recipient, Tina Ramirez, Ballet Hispanico’s work fuses Latin dance with classical and contemporary techniques to create a new style of concert dance in which theatricality and passion propel every move. Choreographers represent a multitude of nationalities including Venezuela, Cuba, Trinidad, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Spain, Brazil, Argentina and Colombia. The Company has offered over 3,350 performances to an audience of over 3 million, throughout 11 countries, on 3 continents.” 


VIRGINIA

George Mason University
3/7 at 8pm, Joffrey Ballet: American Legends, Baltimore Theatre Project
“Frequently referred to as “America’s Company of Firsts,” Joffrey Ballet was first to appear on television, first to perform at the White House, and even first to appear on the cover of TIME Magazine.  This company remains at the forefront of American dance after more than fifty years of sharing their art in both their hometown of Chicago and around the world.  Now, this sterling company takes our stage to present American Legendsfeaturing Interplay, choreographed by Jerome Robbins, Nine Sinatra Songs with choreography by Twyla Tharp, and more.”

Reston Community Center
3/9 at 8pm, Rennie Harris RHAW, The CenterStage at Reston Community Center
“RHAW, Rennie Harris’ second company, presents dynamic performances of street dance, including: Campbell locking, popping & boogaloo, B-boy/girl, house and hip-hop social dance. Downplaying the abstract while pushing a dramatic aesthetic, RHAW forges new paths for young hip-hop hopefuls, and presents hip-hop in its “RHAW-est” forms.”

Friday, January 31, 2014

February 2014 D.C. Dance Events Guide

WASHINGTON D.C.


Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance
Atlas Performing Arts Center
2/22-3/8, Atlas Intersections Festival, Multiple Atlas Locations
“INTERSECTIONS presents performances in music, theatre, dance, film, spoken word and performance art that offer new ways to see ourselves and to celebrate our community and our world.”

Dance Place
2/7 from 8-11pm, Cuban Dance Social with DC Casineros (All Levels) at the Edgewood Arts Center, 3415 8th St NE
“Join the DC Casineros’ company of community DJs and dancers for an evening of Son, Songo, Timba, Guaguanco, Salsa, Cha Cha Cha, Guaracha, and Rumba.”

Joy of Motion
2/22 at 8pm, Shannon Dunne Dance Presents: Sean-Nos in Concert, The Jack Guidone Theater
“Join Shannon Dunne Dance youth and adult companies as they showcase the tradition of sean-nos dance ("old style" Irish dance) through theatricality, choreography and structured improvisations.”

The Washington Ballet
1/29-2/2, The Jazz/Blues Project, The Harman Center, Sudney Harman Hall
“Americana at its finest-the iconic music of Etta James and Charlie "Bird" Parker and world-class dance come together inTrey McIntyre's Blue Until June and Val Caniparoli's Bird's Nest. Along with a world premiere by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa,whose Sueno de Marmol had audiences and critics alike reaching for superlatives last spring and guest appearances by Helen Hayes Award Winner E.Faye Butler and the Howard University Jazz Ensemble, this program promises to be the most exhilarating dance event in town.”

The Kennedy Center
2/1 at 4pm, Ballet 360: Contemporary Dance for Ballet Lovers: Revelations, The Kennedy Center, Terrace Gallery
“In this continuation of the popular Ballet 360° lecture series, dance critic Alexandra Tomalonis uses video of well-known ballets to take us beyond the steps and into the fine craft of making a ballet.”

2/3 at 7pm, Master Class: Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Rehearsal Room - Hall of Nations
“The Explore the Arts master class series gives you an opportunity to take classes led by some of the most talented and creative artists in the world of dance.”

2/4-2/9, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Opera House
“America's cultural ambassador to the world, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the Kennedy Center for its annual engagement with its winning combination of captivating new works and enduring classics.”

2/7-2/8, Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company Presents: Modern Dance Concert: Four by Burgess, The Kennedy Center, Terrace Theater
“The Dana Tai Soon Burgess Dance Company performs new works by critically acclaimed choreographer Dana Tai Soon Burgess. He is recognized for his modern dances that sensitively translate the psychology of our human condition.”

2/12-2/13, Bowen McCauley Dance presents: An Evening to Love, The Kennedy Center, Terrace Theater
“Using classical ballet as the point of departure, artistic director Lucy Bowen McCauley creates emotionally charged dances that defy categorization, set to musical scores ranging from Brahms to Stravinsky to country rock legends Jason and The Scorchers.”

2/27 at 7pm, Master Class: Compagnie Kafig/CCN Creteil et Val-de-Marne, The Kennedy Center, Rehearsal Room - Hall of States
“The Explore the Arts master class series gives you an opportunity to take classes led by some of the most talented and creative artists in the world of dance.”

2.28-3/1, Compagnie Kafig/CCN Creteil et Val-de-Marne, The Kennedy Center, Eisenhower Theater
“Compagnie Käfig makes its Kennedy Center debut with Artistic Director Mourad Merzouki's Agwaand Correria. The all-male Brazilian cast performs these celebrated works inspired by hip-hop, bossa nova, and capoeira.”



MARYLAND


Pilobolus
The Clarice Smith Center for the Performing Arts at University of Maryland, College Park
1/31-2/1 at 8pm, David Rousseve/Reality: Stardust, Clarice Smith Center PAC, Kay Theatre
“Choreographed, written and directed by David Roussève, Stardust follows an African American gay urban teenager’s dreams, misgivings and challenges.”
2/8 at 6pm, Maryland Masti 8, Clarice Smith PAC, Kay Theatre
“Maryland Masti 8, the nation’s premiere intercollegiate dance competition features top garba/raas teams from around the nation competing for bragging rights and an invitation to Raas Revolution — The League of Champions in East Lansing, MI.”

Dance Exchange
2/20 from 7-9pm, DX Open Rehearsal, a behind-the-scenes look at our creative process, Dance Exchange in Takoma Park, MD
“Come join us in the studio for an open rehearsal and get an inside look at the beginning stages of a new work-in-progress by Dance Exchange Artistic Director Cassie Meador that looks at the life, legacy, and impact of the writing of environmentalist Rachel Carson.” 

Strathmore
2/19 at 8pm, Krasnoyarsk National Dance Company of Siberia, Music Center at Strathmore
“Stretching from the Arctic to the border of China, Siberia is a world of cultures—and this vibrant dance company brings influences from many of them to the stage—from leaping, twirling Cossack soldiers to brightly clad peasant dances drawn from centuries of tradition.”

2/26 at 8pm, Pilobolus, Music Center at Strathmore
“Founded in 1971 as a dance collective, this extraordinary and beloved company still, to this day, wears its revolutionary stripes on its sleeves. Its signature style, eerily beautiful and witty formations and movements, contortionist gymnastics, and endlessly inventive works make lifelong fans.”

http://www.strathmore.org/eventstickets/calendar/view.asp?id=9628


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Sunday, December 8, 2013

December Dance Events in D.C. and Maryland


WASHINGTON D.C.

Joy of Motion, Atlas, Friendship Heights, and Bethesda locations
Masterclasses:
12/6, 12/7, 12/11: Flamenco Master Classes with Alejandro Granados
12/7: Classical Variations Workshop with Kathleen Weitz
12/15: Holiday Character Workshop with Kathleen Weitz
Performances:
12/10: Motion Expressions The Heart of Hip Hop Concert

Atlas Performing Arts Center
12/11-12/22: Step Afrika!  Magical Musical Holiday Step Show
“Who wants to sit still and be quiet for the holidays?” Can Step Afrika! teach a polar bear to step? What about a penguin? This December, come make music with Step Afrika! and their furry friends from the Animal Kingdom in this new holiday tradition! Come ready to bring in the festive season with a bang featuring the electrifying artists from Step Afrika! and special guest DJ Frosty the Snowman. We’ll get you in the mood for the festive season.”

The Washington Ballet
12/6-12/29: Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker at The Warner Theatre, Washington DC
“A holiday must-see! Septime Webre’s The Nutcracker transports you back in time to historic Washington with George Washington as the heroic Nutcracker. Glorious music, swirling snowflakes, magnificent sets and costumes have made this Nutcracker a DC tradition with raves from critics and sold-out crowds.”

Dance Place
12/14: Kwanzaa Celebration 2013 at the GWU Dorothy Betts Marvin Theatre in Washington D.C.
"Light up the darkest nights of the year with dance, music, song and rhythm centered on the seven principles of Kwanzaa. In this performance for all ages, Coyaba Dance Theater welcomes the holiday season with its annual Kwanzaa Celebration. Live music, exuberant dancing and a true community of dancers will welcome you into their fold as you kick off the holiday season."


MARYLAND
The Clarice Smith Center for the Performing Arts at University of Maryland, College Park
12/6-12/7: Way In, an MFA Dance Thesis Concert
“In Way In, Jessie Laurita-Spanglet will explore the nature of our physical habits, and how those habits relate to our emotional patterns. The episodic piece will seek to expand on the traditional relationship between the performer and the audience member, engaging both in a shared sensory experience.” 
12/14: The Nutcracker, Act II, with Ballet Company M
“Ballet Company M presents a rendition of Act II of Tchaikovsky's famous holiday ballet The Nutcracker, allowing the audience to partake in their own journey through the Forest of Snowflakes and the Land of the Sweets.”

Dance Exchange, Takoma Park, MD
12/19: Showing and Critical Response Process with artist-in-residence Kevin Ormbsy at Dance Exchange in Takoma Park, MD
Join Dance Exchange artists and public to view works-in-progress by Kevin Ormbsy and participate in a facilitated dialogue.  Learn more about how different artists approach their work and see have a chance to see dance for free!  7-9pm.

Strathmore
12/12: Holiday Cirque with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra 
“Holiday Cirque will get you into the spirit of the season! Bring the entire family to hear holiday favorites while experiencing an awe-inspiring performance by the majestic Cirque Musica. Stunning aerial feats, strongmen and mind-boggling contortionists will take your breath away in this ultimate holiday extravaganza.”
12/16-12/17: Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker
“Celebrate this Christmas with Moscow Ballet’s world famous production of the Great Russian Nutcracker! Bring the whole family for the quintessential Holiday experience. Forty star-studded Russian artists perform Olympian feats in the Holiday classic seen by millions. Don’t let your family miss the performance of a lifetime, full to the brim with magical toys, falling snow, growing Christmas trees and astounding Russian dancers. Tickets are going fast so get your seats now! Learn more at www.nutcracker.com.”


OTHER

Dances Made To Order, Online
Featuring three D.C. dance artists including Erica Rebollar, Boris Willis and Iliana Silverstein 

“Every month, YOU choose the inspiration then sit back as three artists rise to the challenge of creating dance films in just three weeks!
As soon as the films are ready, we put them online for your instant viewing pleasure. It's super convenient and affordable art you
don't even need to leave the couch to enjoy.”


If you'd like your event added to next month's list, feel free to contact me!

Monday, November 4, 2013

November D.C. Area Dance Performances

November Dance in D.C. and Surrounding Areas


Joy of Motion
Dance Project Fall 2013 
Nov 9-10 (Sat. 8:30pm, Sun. 7pm) in D.C. at The Jack Guidone Theater

“Dance Project is an annual choreography showcase of the best local dance companies. JOMDC created the Dance Project series in order to give rising artists a performance platform. This concert will feature the Audience Favorite Award, where the audience votes for their favorite performance. The winner will receive a handsome package including 100 hours of free rehearsal space or a 50% off theater rental at the Jack Guidone Theater. Don't miss the opportunity to give a local dance company a chance to RISE!”

Performances by:
Nate Bond
Dayo N Dance
Delicious Lawn Gnomes
Rachel Leigh Dolan
Kaution Dance Kru
LoBrace Dance Works
Kjerstin Lysne
Casey Maliszewski
Motion X Dance DC
Piernas Locas Project
RebollarDance
relEASE
The SAPAN Institute (performing Saturday only)


The Collective
The Collective and ClancyWorks in Concert
November 16-17, (Sat. 8pm, Sun. 3pm) in Baltimore at The Theatre Project

“This concert highlights the rich history of collaboration between ClancyWorks Dance Company and The Collective as well as both companies' continuing mission to engage the community and ultimately use dance as a catalyst for social change. By returning to Theatre Project for the third consecutive season in a shared performance, both The Collective and ClancyWorks have committed to presenting new, relevant work that is both accessible and engaging. The Collective will present new work from their current season's repetoire as well as share the stage with The Community Project 2013, featuring dancers culminating a six-week rehearsal process as community members learning a modern dance work.” 


The Kennedy Center
The Suzanne Farrell Ballet 
Nov. 6-10 in D.C. at The Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theatre

“As ‘one of the most courageous projects in ballet today’ (The New York Times), the Kennedy Center's own The Suzanne Farrell Ballet--led by Balanchine's famed muse--returns with two mixed repertory programs.”

Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty - New Adventures
Nov. 12-17th in D.C. at The Kennedy Center’s Opera House

“Renowned British choreographer Matthew Bourne returns with his latest re-imagining of a ballet classic. Danced by his company, this haunting new production is a gothic romance; a supernatural love story that even the passage of time cannot hinder.”


Dances Made To Order
Featuring three D.C. dance artists including Erica Rebollar, Boris Willis and Iliana Silverstein 
Nov. 13, online

“Every month, YOU choose the inspiration then sit back as three artists rise to the challenge of creating dance films in just three weeks!
As soon as the films are ready, we put them online for your instant viewing pleasure. It's super convenient and affordable art you
don't even need to leave the couch to enjoy.”


Dance Exchange
Master Class with Laura Peterson
Nov 14, 6-7:30pm in M.D. at Dance Exchange

“Dance Exchange is thrilled to offer yet another master class this month! This time we’ll be moving with the immensely talented Laura Peterson, Artistic Director of Laura Peterson Choreography based in NYC. This master class kicks off an exciting collaboration between Dance Exchange and the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center Millennium Stage, where Laura will be showing her work \'Forever\' on Friday, November 15 at 6 pm. Throughout the season, the John F. Kennedy Performing Arts Center Millennium Stage and Dance Exchange will work together to bring some exciting master class opportunities with artists from around the country into our community.”

Laura Peterson Choreography 
Nov. 15, 6pm live broadcast

Information is scarce, but here ya go:
Excerpt:


Dance Meets Theatre - DX & Single Carrot Theatre’s worshop on Devised Work
Nov. 21, 7-9pm in MD at Dance Exchange

“Dance Exchange has a long history of working with Theater companies to create more meaningful work on stage and in the community. This season, we are partnering with our Baltimore-based theater friends of Single Carrot Theater to host a series of tool sharing workshops, as well as this HOME series evening of discussions on how to create effective and evocative devised theater work that incorporates choreography.”
http://danceexchange.org/calendar/


Dance Place
City Rhythms Festival
Nov 23-24 (Sat. 8pm, Sun. 4pm) in D.C. at The Atlas Performing Arts Center

"Feel the driving heartbeat of DC as we bring together the area’s foremost rhythmic dance troupes. Dance Place resident company Coyaba Dance Theater presents their Female Drum Ensemble alongside hip-hop artists Culture Shock and Baakari Wilder’s tap dancers. Shuffle and sway with Footworks Percussive Dance Ensemble and their signature Americana style. Then pump up the volume as the internationally celebrated Step Afrika! takes the stage with rapid-fire, precision stepping and electrifying energy."

http://www.danceplace.org/events/city-rhythms-festival-2/

Contact me if you would like your event included in December's listing

Saturday, February 2, 2013

Thank Goodness for Company Class

I'm back in the land of the frigid north.

My 33-year-old dancing body doesn't warm up as well in Chicago as it did in Miami.  There's no way around that.  Yes, I know that's still young in human years, but dance-years are like dog-years: not as kind.  You try pirouetting into a jump that lands on top of your feet/shins in a cross-legged position and hops into side lunge after walking 5 blocks in -13 degree windchill.  It's a bit shocking.

Whatever.  My point is that once the actual winter hit (not this global-warming-induced bathwater we were calling December) it suddenly became a huge chore to get myself to any class outside of the one I teach twice a week and company class.  I am thoroughly convinced that all studio classes must suffer immensely when the cold hits, because I do.  If it weren't for company class, I'd be losing ankle-strength faster than I lose my willpower in the Warm Ups section on DiscountDance.com.

If you're a dancer, you've been there.  You get a couple of weeks off for Christmas and before you know it, you can't releve on one foot any more (not to mention that putting on a leotard and tights is a little harrowing after all that eggnog).

So here's to company class!  You and I will always be best friends.  You have saved me from myself many a Christmas season, and may you continue to do so for many a year to come.  And I pledge, if I ever start my own company, I will arrange company class before every rehearsal.  Amen.






Monday, January 7, 2013

Life as a Modern Dancer

READ ALL ABOUT IT:
Yours Truly has been featured in the blog Life as a Modern Dancer, A Blog with a Mission and Passion to Support Future Generations of Dancers with Their Career Paths and Dreams.  Read all about I got to where I am today (scintillating, right?) and stay to read other inspiring stories of Modern Dancers from around the country.

Here's an excerpt:
"There is this unspoken rule within the modern dance world that once you’re into your 30s, you should be moving into the role of choreographer or collaborator. I’m still learning and growing as a dancer and a choreographer and I still have the time and energy to do both, but the truth is that it gets a little harder to get hired in your 30s. I’ve gotten passed over more than once by directors who have assumed..."

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Why I, As an Artist, Left Miami

Edward Villella.  A name any dancer should know.  He founded Miami City Ballet, among other amazing achievements and made me, as a devout modern dancer, stop sneering at ballet.  (Well, Eddie and the incomparable Sylvie.)

So, what does this have to do with me leaving Miami for the cold city of Chicago?  A little over a year ago, my husband and I were faced with a choice whether to stay in Miami while he searched for a job or to start fresh in a new community where there were more opportunities for him.  The ultimate choice was up to me because I was gainfully employed and it would be quite a sacrifice for me to leave my company and my teaching.  I decided we would take the chance.

There were many and varied reasons why we chose to move (big city, more museums for him, closer family for both of us, the challenge of a new city, and several more financial reasons) but there is one reason, that as an artist I kept coming back to:  Miami just doesn't get it yet, and my career as a dancer is finite.

All right, all right, simmer down there.  Many artists and choreographers in Miami that ABSOLUTELY DO get it, but they are in the minority and they do not fund companies and seasons.  Board members and the general public steer that ship.  And, I'm sorry (not sorry), but Miami, you have some growing up to do.  Stay crazy, young and fun, but please take down those awful plastic-surgery-for-moms-and-teens and www.whocanisue.com billboards, and grow and artistic soul.

Edward Villella GOT IT.  He did.  He got it and then he founded Miami City Ballet.  People came, saw, and then a few more people were able to "get it" too.  Then Miami just had to stamp it's little 8-inch, platform stripper-heels all over it.  If you aren't familiar with the story of Villella's premature departure from MCB, read all about it in the Miami Herald's tell-all with there many helpful links to emails and subscriber letters.

I was reminded all about this in this month's Dance Teacher Magazine article with Eddie's first major interview since the whole rotten deal went down. Mr. Vallella has this fabulous quote that typifies his struggle with Miami:
"I came from knowledge and awareness, so when I was asked to start a ballet in Miami ... [w]hat I fully didn’t realize is there’s a New York manner and a Florida manner. So for over a quarter of a century I have been trying to educate and bring Miami up to or near the level of cultural understanding of a city such as New York. It’s not an easy thing to do.
... [B]ut when you are dealing with a community that doesn’t fully have enough exposure, interest and support, it’s a little exasperating, and you feel like you have not fully done what you started out to do."

And then after being asked what he'll do next, he just kills me with this one:
"What I want to do first of all is to return to a place where they speak my language. Miami does not speak my language."

Honey, I hear you and my bags are packed.