Ballet BC opened its season this past week with Program 1, featuring three ballets with distinctly different styles. One of these ballets was an internationally acclaimed work from iconic choreographer William Forsythe. The second piece was a world premiere, set to the music of Jimi Hendrix. The third – and strongest – piece was a gorgeous remount of a ballet originally set on the company in 2011. It’s no surprise then that this piece, Petite Cérémonie, fits the company like a glove, and was likely the most memorable ballet of the night among audiences.
Read moreBallet BC creatively tells the story of Romeo + Juliet, but dances to the wrong music
Brandon Alley and Emily Chessa as Romeo and Juliet. Photo credit: Michael Slobodian
There’s been much fanfare leading up to Ballet BC’s world premiere version of Romeo + Juliet, choreographed and conceived by Medhi Walerski. We’re not used to seeing Ballet BC do full-length story work. On top of that, the classic tale of the two star-crossed lovers is closely tied to classical ballet. So how does this primarily contemporary company fare with its own rendition of the iconic love story? Ballet BC’s Romeo + Juliet is a great production, showcasing the emotionally-moving, quirky and daring style the company is renowned for. Not all the pieces fit together, but it’s an interesting and valiant effort.
Read moreDance Review: Alberta Ballet's The Nutcracker is a stunning visual treat with solid dancing
Photo credit: Yin Yi
Ballet BC has graciously invited Alberta Ballet to perform its renowned production of The Nutcracker in Vancouver. This visually stunning production features all the opulence, majesty and grace that this classic story is known for. Complete with some stand-out dance performances, and accompanied by the magnificent Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Alberta Ballet's The Nutcracker is a special holiday treat.
Read moreDance Review: Program 1 defines Ballet BC’s stature as a world-class artistic treasure
Ballet BC dancers Livona Ellis, Emily Chessa and Alexis Fletcher in Cayetano Soto's "Eight Years of Silence". Part of Ballet BC's latest work, "Program 1". Photo credit: Michael Slobodian.
There’s a common theme underlying Ballet BC’s season-opening work, Program 1. This exquisite offering of two pieces, Eight Years of Silence and B.R.I.S.A., is defined by the personal journey of overcoming personal demons. Whether by confronting one’s own fears or finding the courage to break away from your comfort zone, Program 1 is a remarkable display of artistry, embodied by the incredibly talented Ballet BC dancers, who combine superb technique and versatility into world-class contemporary dance.
Read moreDance Review: Ballet BC offers engaging and unique contemporary with Program 3
All photo credits: Michael Slobodian
Ballet BC concludes its 2016/2017 season with Program 3, a triple bill of two pieces choreographed by Israeli artists and one original piece by artistic director, Emily Molnar.Overall, all three pieces were both entertaining and intriguing. Ballet BC’s stature as a top contemporary company is clearly evident. Program 3 demonstrates creativity and various styles of contemporary, while also being very engaging for the audience – a feat that isn’t always achieved with ambitious contemporary.
Read moreBallet BC concludes 31st season with Program 3
Ballet BC dancer Rachel Meyer. Photo credit - Michael Slobodian
Ballet BC will conclude its 31st season with Program 3, which opens tomorrow night at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre. This much anticipated finale to the contemporary ballet troupe's trilogy of montage works this season will feature creations by Israeli choreographers Emanuel Gat and Ohad Naharin, as well as Ballet BC’s Artistic Director Emily Molnar.
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