Welcome back for another exciting week of the latest stories from the world of ballet!
Dive into the vision of Susan Jaffe, the artistic director of the American Ballet Theatre, as she unveils her innovative plans to elevate the company to new heights. Discover how Rolex is expanding its role with the Royal Ballet and Opera, transitioning from Official Timekeeper to Principal Partner. Plus, learn about the inspiring partnership between the Louisville Ballet and the Louisville Free Public Library, which is creating a welcoming space for young people, especially boys, to explore the magic of dance.
But the excitement doesn't end there! Keep scrolling to catch up on more highlights from this week!
At the American Ballet Theater's spring gala dinner, amid cheers and glamour, artistic director Susan Jaffe addressed the crowd, acknowledging the company's storied past but highlighting its current financial struggles and the need for innovation. Jaffe, serving dual roles as artistic chief and executive director, navigates the challenges with determination, aiming to revitalize the company through expanded choreographer representation and increased fundraising efforts.
Carlos Acosta, the renowned Cuban ballet dancer and director of Acosta Danza and the Birmingham Royal Ballet, continues to leave a mark on the ballet world despite his retirement from classical performances. In a conversation with Acosta he discusses a variety of topics including his career, his future plans for success, race, the pressures of maintaining weight and more.
The collaboration between Louisville Ballet and Louisville Free Public Library aims to engage young people, particularly boys, in ballet through the Ballet Bound initiative, offering free classes and incorporating dance education into library programs. By partnering with libraries and offering classes in various branches, they aim to break down barriers to access and provide a safe and inclusive space for all to explore dance.
Rolex has deepened its partnership with Britain’s Royal Ballet and Opera, transitioning from Official Timekeeper to Principal Partner, marking a significant step in their collaboration. This expanded alliance underscores Rolex's commitment to supporting renowned cultural institutions globally, with similar partnerships in Milan, New York, Paris, Buenos Aires, and Monte-Carlo,
aiming to promote artistic excellence and heritage preservation.
The University of the Arts in Philadelphia shocked its community with a sudden closure on June 7, prompting confusion and distress among students and faculty. With questions looming over the absence of a clear teach-out plan and uncertain transfer options, concerns have heightened about financial support for staff and the impact of the closure on the broader Philadelphia
cultural landscape. Lawmakers are scrutinizing the situation, seeking answers from UArts administrators and considering legislative action to address the fallout.
If You’re Around this Weekend
Join the Union County Performing Arts Center for Dance Education's 28th Annual Dance Collage on Saturday, June 15th. This vibrant event showcases a diverse array of dance styles, including classical ballet, modern, lyrical/ contemporary, jazz, tap, and hip hop—ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy. With three showtimes available at 11 AM, 3:30 PM, and 6:30
PM, you can choose the perfect time to experience this spectacular performance. Get your tickets today!
If You Feel Like Watching
Les Grands Ballets and the National Centre for Dance Therapy are pioneering ballet accessibility through their innovative initiative dubbed "relaxed ballet." Tailored to accommodate autistic children and adults, single mothers, individuals with mental impairments, and marginalized communities who may face barriers to traditional ballet shows, this effort incorporates quiet zones for those feeling overstimulated, dimmer lights, and carefully curated sounds assessed by dance therapists to mitigate surprises and enhance inclusivity.
Join New York Ballet Principal dancer, Emma Von Enck, as she takes you through the ins and outs of what she feels is “The Perfect Shoe” in the first part of a four part series where the New York City Ballet is asking it’s dancers questions in a series called “Screen Tests”.
If You Feel Like Listening
Discover the transformative journey of Adam McKinney, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre's new artistic director, as he reflects on his inaugural year. Explore how his personal experiences as a male ballet dancer have shaped his leadership approach and catch a glimpse of his future plans to enrich both programming and dancer welfare at PBT.
Comments