Center Stage: “All Balanchine”
Take a peek behind the curtain as Ballet Arizona dancers share the physical, emotional and mental strength Balanchine performances demand and what it’s like to learn from one of George Balanchine’s protégés, Ib Andersen.
Dancer’s Story – Annier Navarro
I had a neighbor in Cuba who lived in AZ for a while. His only description of Arizona was “hot”. I had no idea just how beautiful Arizona would be with or without its summer heat. I was unprepared for everything it holds.
Behind the Scenes with Ib Andersen: “All Balanchine”
I continue to do a Balanchine program each year because, in my opinion, he is the number one choreographer that we have ever seen in ballet. There is no one like him; no one is as diverse as him and I don’t think there ever will be.
The Personal is Political – by Hannah Cooper
The personal is political. Personal choices and experiences do not happen in a vacuum. They are shaped by the political and social environment in which they live. Additionally, they shape the narrative of future discussions, analysis, and actions.
Beyond Ballet
Ballet is a passion first, then a discipline. And because of this discipline, ballet teaches you as much about life skills as dance steps. At one point, you emotionally change. You physically change. And you continue to change in ways that make you connect with your body and learn how to use your energy correctly.
Behind the Scenes with Ib Andersen: “Rio”
To me, ballet is about nature in a big way. So what I bring to the plate is everything that I’ve done since I was born. I have a very raw interest in most everything. You can do almost anything with dance. It’s like painting a picture. Whatever you want to do you can do.
An Evening with Today’s Masters
Breathing life into original choreography requires a gift of artistry, vision and execution, all within the realm of infinite patience. No one does this better than our Artistic Director Ib Andersen!
Dancer’s Story: Natalia Magnicaballi
For years, audiences have been watching me on stage, as I bring to life characters from beautiful ballets, making them forget about their realities, transporting them to different worlds, making my steps look effortless and alive, but, sometimes, I wonder if they really know the meaning of what I do?
Behind the Scenes with Nayon Iovino: “Today’s Masters”
I really enjoy the process of creating a piece. Coming up with ideas. It’s a lot of fun for me. I really enjoyed doing the Brazillian piece, “Nine O’Clock”, for “Innovations”. It really reminded me of home. I even included a song that my dad and I used to listen to in the car.
