Modern Choreographic Voices Shatters Perceptions of Dance in the Modern World

Atlanta Ballet’s eclectic mixed-rep program Modern Choreographic Voices shatters perceptions of dance in  the modern world by presenting the freshest and most innovative works from all corners of the globe. Billed this season as The Best of Modern Choreographic Voices - Atlanta Ballet brought back three favorites from past seasons -  the program ran for one weekend only, April 17-19, at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.  

Power, precision and stamina are three words that spring to mind when watching Alexei Ratmansky’s intense, fast-paced “Seven Sonatas,” which has become a hallmark for the Russian dancer-turned-choreographer, who, at 46, has already become an icon in the ballet world.  Ratmansky, who currently serves as artist in residence at American Ballet Theatre in New York, is known as one of the prolific choreographers of his generation and was even regarded by The New York Times as “the most looked-to choreographer in Western ballet” and “the most gifted choreographer specializing in classical ballet today.”  Atlanta Ballet premiered “Seven Sonatas,” on its March 2014 Modern Choreographic Voices.

 

Tara Lee with Brandon Nguyen.

Rachel Van Buskirk with Shirley Irek on piano.

Nadia Mara dancing with Jacob Bush and Shirley Irek on piano.

Hailed as a choreographer of "startling originality" (Back Stage) and "a standout on the soulful front" (Sun-Sentinel), choreographer Gina Patterson will reprise her “Quietly Walking,” which originally debuted in Atlanta Ballet’s inaugural New Choreographic Voices program in 2011.  According to Patterson, "Quietly Walking" reflects on the relationship between urbanization and deforestation, and how, as we continue to clear cut acres of forestland to create concrete jungles, we are in danger of losing our connection with the earth and with each other. "In the midst of the city, how do we stay connected to nature?" asks Patterson. "How do we stay in touch with our fellow human beings, with ourselves? As we build physical walls, do we also build emotional ones?" Patterson worked closely with internationally-respected costume and set designer Jorge Gallardo and Atlanta Ballet lighting designer Robert Hand to translate the images that inspired her choreography into striking costumes, sets and lighting effects that help to fully express her vision for the work.

Sara Havener and Christian Clark.

Peng-Yu Chen with John Welker.

Nadia Mara with Jonah Hooper.

Atlanta Ballet went “Gaga” with the return of renowned Israeli choreographer Ohad Naharin’s critically acclaimed “Minus 16.”“Gaga” is Naharin’s signature, free-flowing movement style that embraces the unconventional and thrives on the unexpected. “Minus 16” made its Atlanta Ballet debut in March 2013 and is also a part of the repertory of companies such as New York’s Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Chicago’s Hubbard Street Dance. “Minus 16” has been described as a choreographic masterpiece, with a musical score that ranges from Dean Martin and mambo to traditional Israeli songs. The unique experience calls for the audience to get in on the action as well, as they are invited to be a part of the dance, breaking the barrier between performer and spectator.

 

Heath Gill

Rachel Van Buskirk, Yoomi Kim, Benjamin Stone and Kelsey Ebersold.

Ohad Naharin's free-flowing style in "Minus16."

Audience participation.

"Sway" takes on a new meaning with audience participation in Ohad Naharin's "Minus16."

The power of walking away.



Ohad Naharin's "gaga" signature style.

 



Hats off to say good night ...



For more information about Atlanta Ballet and to purchase tickets forthe upcoming performance "MAYhem," visit www.atlantaballet.com.