In a far too brief moment, the season at City Center came to its conclusion.

In an effort to cram in almost every ballet that was being presented during the season, I seemed to only have two shows off the whole run. Not to complain, I always look at this career and think that I only have a certain amount of time to dance. It’s the bitter truth and makes for the attempt to live every moment on stage and in rehearsal to its fullest.

My highlights though, personally speaking (others might have another opinion), were a handful of works as diverse as its comes. One being the world premiere of Lauri Stallings Citizen. If the ballet didn’t provoke discussion the costumes sure did (as you see below). It’s the first time, and maybe the last I wear a corset. Always up for some diversity and challenge, it proved an interesting step in another direction for me. Her movement was based a lot on Ohad Naharin’s Gaga method, which I loved to try and adapt to. And barely faked my way through. It was a true challenge and a great rehearsal process.

Another was the return of Balanchine’s Ballo Della Regina. I honestly haven’t felt that free on stage as I do in this ballet. Created as a clear vehicle for the ballerina, the steps for the man are liberating and have a certain breath to them. Working with famed ballerina Merril Ashley is always a joy. And having her ‘nit pick’ is something I crave as a dancer. The sweat, the work, its bliss.

The Tudor celebration also proved to be yet another shading of the ABT rep. that I respect. Tudor can be very limiting in its movement, due to the fact that you don’t have to work for the steps, the drama of the step and the ballet will explain themselves. It can seem like you are not doing anything, but yet it all unfolds itself. That was most present in the ‘Romeo and Juliet’ bedroom pas de deux that Gillian Murphy and I danced.

Nevertheless, it was a great season and utterly fulfilling in many ways. From Balanchine (Tchi pas, Theme and Variations, Ballo) to Tudor (Pillar, R and J) to new works (Citizen) to Kiliyan (Overgrown Path).

I enjoyed every minute of it.