The power of woman will be en pointe at Vanier Hall this week.
Ballet is one of the power-plays in the performing arts. It is deeply rooted in formal traditions of dance, but also soars to interpretive heights. It is the modern world in full embrace of the classical world.
Ballet Kelowna comes to Prince George for a special one-night-only performance of an all new and groundbreaking show.
This one not only has a female focus in the cast of dancers, but also in the creation of the work. The event is entitled Elles: Extraordinary Dance Created By Women.
"In the world of ballet, female choreographers are rare," says Ballet Kelowna's artistic director and CEO Simone Orlando. "As the very first choreographer commissioned to create a new work for Ballet Kelowna back in 2005, I am particularly proud of our company's history of promoting women. By supporting the artistic development of these female artists, we hope to inspire other companies to do the same. We want our audiences to know that amazing work is being created right here in Kelowna, and that our emphasis on supporting Canadian dance artists needs to be shared across the country."
As this city's nearest professional ballet company, there has long been a special relationship between Prince George and Ballet Kelowna. Many locals have learned the craft here and gone on to professional work with the company down the road.
Therefore, when Ballet Kelowna goes on tour, Prince George is penciled in as an important destination on the journey.
This time, local audiences get to see four pieces altogether, each of them created by female choreographers.
Two are world premiers designed by celebrated Canadian choreographers Gioconda Barbuto and Alysa Pires.
The other two are works previously commissioned by Ballet Kelowna: Folie Cinq by Heather Myers and Glas by Gabrielle Lamb.
"At a time when women's vision is roaring to the forefront across a range of artistic endeavors,
Ballet Kelowna is proud to present work crafted by some of Canadian ballet's most accomplished female leaders," said Orlando, who was herself an award-winning choreographer and former dancer with Ballet BC and The National Ballet of Canada.
Elles: Extraordinary Dance Created By Women happens Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Vanier Hall.
Tickets are available online now at the Central Interior Tickets website, from their ticket desk at 3540 Opie Cres. or call 250-596-0020 for information.
