New series terrific addition to RWB repertoire
‘See the music, hear the dance,” is a famous quote from quintessential ballet influencer George Balanchine, whose pithy bons mots have defined much of American classical dance since the legendary […]
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet (RWB) has launched an exciting new initiative for its 87th season—an innovative Studio Series. This series was unveiled to local ballet enthusiasts on Thursday, aiming to make the art form more accessible to those who might be intimidated by the grandeur of the Centennial Concert Hall.
The brainchild of RWB's artistic director, Christopher Stowell, the Studio Series showcases an abridged "concert version" of George Balanchine's iconic Who Cares?, set to a lively playlist of George Gershwin tunes. The program's goal is to connect with a wider audience and make ballet feel welcoming for everyone.
The series features six talented dancers, including principal dancer Alanna McAdie, soloists Kyra Soo and Logan Savard, and newcomers Joseph Dufty and Kallie Green. The dancers bring a captivating blend of jazzy movement and classical technique, performed en pointe.
What sets this performance apart is the inclusion of Ira Gershwin's lyrics, a first for Balanchine's seminal work. This addition adds an emotional depth to the ballet's dreamy pas de deux and spirited solos, as the dancers infuse their movements with the wit and charm of the original lyrics.
The Studio Series promises to be a hit, bringing the 500-year-old art of ballet to a new audience in a refreshing and engaging way.
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