top of page

From Adaleigh's Dreams to Stanislav's Journey: Dancing Through Emotions in the World of Ballet

Updated: May 1, 2024

It’s time to dance to the beat and let the music move you as you enter the latest

edition of Dance Rhythm, your number one source for all things ballet!


In this edition get ready to experience all the feelings. Your heart will melt as you watch six-year-old Adaleigh’s Make-A-Wish dream of becoming a ballerina come true. Then you’ll be moved by the incredible story of Ukrainian dancer, Stanislav Olshanskyi who after being displaced by the tragedies of war comes into his own at Miami City Ballet. And don't miss out on exploring the latest fashion craze, Balletcore. Delve into this rapidly evolving trend and hear insights from industry professionals.


All of this and more is waiting for you, happy reading!


Stanislav Olshanskyi, a Ukrainian dancer displaced by the war, adjusts to life and a new style of dance in Miami as he prepares for Miami City Ballet's production of "Swan Lake," finding solace in his craft amidst the challenges of adaptation and distance from home. Despite initial hesitations and struggles with depression, Olshanskyi embraces his role, marking a new chapter

in his life and career.


Ballet-inspired fashion, known as balletcore, is experiencing a resurgence, sparking debate among dancers about its representation and impact on their art form. While some fear it may oversimplify or trivialize ballet, others see it as a flattering homage that fosters connection and admiration for the art form, potentially influencing broader cultural perceptions of ballet.


The Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) returned to New York City with a week-long celebration featuring dance galas, a symposium for company directors, and a record-breaking attempt with 353 dancers balancing on pointe at the Plaza Hotel. YAGP's competition featured 120 finalists out of 2,000 dancers, with winners announced at Saturday's awards ceremony. Check out the winners and learn more about how YAGP is planning to expand opportunities beyond

competition.


"Abigail," a film featuring a vampire ballerina, explores the enduring fascination with the trope of the dangerous ballerina in pop culture, tapping into themes of deception, transformation, and power. While the movie indulges in campy horror, it also reflects on the physical and emotional demands of ballet, showcasing the artistry and empowerment it can bring amidst its portrayal of

a bloodthirsty dancer.


The Russian Mariinsky Theater's participation in a New York gala marking the 25th anniversary of the Youth America Grand Prix was canceled amid boycott calls due to Russia's war. The cancellation followed a protest by Ukrainians at the David H. Koch Theater, featuring bloodstained ballet tutus and images of Ukrainian victims and Russian ballerinas with military personnel.


If You’re Around this Weekend


Looking for weekend plans? We just found them for you! Join the New York City (NYCB) as they present “Masters at Work” featuring two celebrated works by NYCB’s founding choreographers Jerome Robbins’ and George Balanchine. This two hour and ten minute performance is just enough to keep you on your toes. Buy your tickets today!


If You Feel Like Watching


Six-year-old Adaleigh, battling congenital heart disease, saw her Make-A-Wish dream come true thanks to Ballet Spartanburg in South Carolina. Longing to be a ballerina, Ballet Spartanburg not only granted her the chance to perform before loved ones but also opened its doors for Adaleigh and her sister to dance anytime, fostering their passion and dreams.


If You Feel Like Listening


Ballet, renowned for its grace and elegance, harbors a troubling history of sexual

exploitation. King Louis XIV's passion for ballet transformed it significantly, while the patronage system provided dancers with opportunities to leverage their influence. Join the author of “Ballerina: Sex, Scandal and Suffering Behind the Symbol of Perfection,” Deirde Kelly and host Kate Lister as they bravely embrace their sexuality within the art form.

4 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page