Posted by David Blumenfeld
Last week, the dancers of Atlanta Ballet returned to work for their 2007-2008 season. One of the most exciting works this season will be a collaboration between the ballet and Big Boi of Outkast, along with artists of his Purple Ribbon Entertainment. There will be 6 performances, April 10-13, 2008, of this world premiere ballet, created by Choreographer in Residence, Lauri Stallings. Hip hop seems to be such a huge part of the music scene in Atlanta and around the world, and Big Boi is a major part of that driving force. Stallings is a major creative force in the dance world, and I cannot wait to see how this original collaboration will come together. As I learn more about the ballet, I will make more posts with photos and videos, but the ballet is just being choreographed as we speak. Rumors are already floating around about VERY big names in hip hop joining in the collaboration, and I will let you all know the scoop in good time.
In the meantime, here are a couple photos from our first week back:
Nadia Mara examines an ankle injury
John Welker demonstrates how to ties his shoes while stretching at the same time
Just so the world can get acquainted with some of the dancers of Atlanta Ballet, here are some links to YouTube videos I posted of them. Christian Clark, Courtney Necessary, Nadia Mara (pictured above), and Rachel VanBuskirk are all great dancers (and turners), as you will see.
