Find your Rhythm and step into the beat in the latest edition of Dance Rhythm!
This week’s lineup promises not to disappoint as we take you through an array of stories. Fall in love with ballet all over again as you read about seventeen-year-old Lēya Graham's journey from uncertainty to finding renewed passion for ballet at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy. Get ready to blend the elegance of classical ballet with the pulsating beats of Jack Harlow's hip hop music, courtesy of Louisville Ballet's innovative performance. Delve deeper into the realm of female ballet dancer health as the UNT Health Science Center’s Performing Arts Medicine Clinic unveils its ambitious new study goals.
And that's just a glimpse of the enchantment awaiting you in this week's newsletter! Don't miss out on all of this and more – let the dancing commence!
Seventeen-year-old Lēya Graham's journey from uncertainty in Miami to finding renewed passion at the Debbie Allen Dance Academy culminates in her solo ballet performance at the Youth American Grand Prix. Despite not winning, she emerged with newfound confidence and optimism for her future in dance thanks to the encouragement of the people around her.
The Louisville Ballet is breaking from classical tradition to collaborate with hip-hop artist Jack Harlow on their new project "502," aiming to engage younger audiences and overcome financial challenges. Featuring a fusion of ballet and modern dance to Harlow's music, the production seeks to infuse energy and appeal to a broader demographic, showcasing the company in a new light.
Anne Benna Sims, the first African-American ballerina at American Ballet Theatre, began her dance journey at a young age, swiftly progressing through classes despite initial obstacles. Exposed to esteemed performances and mentors, she navigated challenges in the ballet world, ultimately making history with ABT and forging her own path in dance.
Misty Copeland, the first African American woman to be a principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre, reflects on the challenges she has faced throughout her career in the new episode on the HBO Max special “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace?”. To learn more about Misty Copeland and her conversation with Chris Wallace check out the special now.
In a bomb shelter in northeast Ukraine, the Princess Ballet Studio offers young girls a brief reprieve from the war above ground as they practice ballet amid rubble and constant air raid alerts, providing a glimpse of normalcy amidst chaos. Despite the conditions and reduced student numbers, owner Yulia Voitina persists in running the studio, recognizing the therapeutic value of dance for the children amidst the turmoil of war.
The New York City Ballet recently returned to Chicago for a special event marking the company's 75th season and the Harris Theater's 20th anniversary. The program featured works spanning the company's history, including pieces by George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins, showcasing the evolution of American ballet. The evening highlighted iconic ballets like "Serenade" and "The Four Temperaments," emphasizing the enduring legacy of these master choreographers and the dedication of the company's dancers.
If You’re Around This Weekend:
This Saturday explore the beauty of "The White Feather," a Persian ballet tale honoring Iran's art and expression, celebrating the Persian New Year and the fight for freedom, and tracing the history of Iran's National Ballet. Through a child's eyes, witness Iran's evolution from ancient roots to present-day, with original music by Shahrdad Rohani.
If You Feel Like Watching:
Researchers at the UNT Health Science Center's Performing Arts Medicine Clinic are investigating the health implications of ballet, particularly focusing on bone health and the prevalence of stress injuries and fractures among dancers, led by Dr. Yein Lee and Dr. Stephen Fung. Their study aims to identify risk factors and solutions, especially concerning the impact on women dancers, with efforts toward promoting overall health and wellness within the ballet community.
If You Feel Like Listening:
Sarah Wroth, Chair of the Department of Ballet at Indiana University's Jacobs School of Music, highlights the university's leading ballet program, emphasizing its role in producing well-trained and employable dancers. IU's ballet program offers numerous opportunities such as extensive performance schedules, choreography experiences, and the option to pursue a second academic emphasis, contributing to the holistic development of its students. This is definitely a conversation you're going to want to check out!
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