We’re back! Did you miss us as much as we missed you?
This week, we have some truly top-tier stories to share, filled with personal journeys and exciting events. First, meet Masako Parshall, an 88-year-old costume designer who has spent decades crafting and altering costumes for the Texas Ballet Theater. Her beautiful story is a must-read as she takes you through her journey with the company starting all the way from 1982! Next, say hello to the dynamic duo of ballerinas, Chloe Misseldine and her mother, Yan Chen. Despite initially disliking ballet, Chloe followed in her mother’s footsteps now dancing at the American Ballet Theater (ABT), creating a unique and inspiring bond. Finally, explore the Morgan Library & Museum, where early 20th-century ballet scores connected to the Ballet Russes offer a fascinating new perspective on the renowned dance company.
All of this awaits you, happy reading!
Chloe Misseldine, now a principal dancer with New York’s American Ballet Theater, didn't initially enjoy ballet despite her mother's career as a former soloist with the same company. However, as she grew older, her passion for performing blossomed, strengthening the special bond she shares with her mother, Yan Chen, who now serves as a Ballet Master at ABT.
The National Ballet of Ukraine will tour the U.S. for the first time in 30 years, performing across 16 cities this October, accompanied by Canadian-based Ukrainian folk-dance company Shumka. The tour not only aims to showcase Ukrainian culture but also serves as a symbol of resilience, with proceeds supporting humanitarian efforts for Ukrainian families affected by the ongoing war.
While examining the Robert Owen Lehman collection at the Morgan Library &
Museum, Robinson McClellan, an associate curator at the Morgan, discovered a significant array of early 20th-century ballet scores connected to the Ballets Russes, revealing a unique perspective on the revolutionary dance company. These scores, along with various artistic documents, now form the basis of the "Crafting the Ballets Russes" exhibition, showcasing the deep collaboration between music, dance, and design that defined the Ballets Russes' legacy. The exhibition will be live until September 22nd.
The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts is unveiling its first large-scale retrospective on The Joffrey Ballet, using the recently acquired Joffrey archive to explore the company's unique contributions to ballet in the U.S. The exhibition, opening on September 19, 2024, will showcase rare films, costumes, and other artifacts that highlight the Joffrey's eclectic repertory and its role in redefining ballet across America.
If You Are Around This Weekend
The Allegheny County Concert Series at Hartwood Acres will feature the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre performing a mix of classical and contemporary ballet works at 7:30 p.m. The event includes free children's activities starting at 5:30 p.m., and admission is free.
If You Feel Like Watching
Masako Parshall, an 88-year-old costume designer, has dedicated decades to Texas Ballet Theater, starting her journey with the company in 1982. After surviving Hiroshima and moving to Fort Worth, Masako built a career in costume design, a passion sparked by her daughter’s involvement in dance, and continued to contribute her expertise until her recent retirement.
RZA is set to release his orchestral album "A Ballet Through Mud" on August 30, inspired by his early creative work and featuring themes of love, exploration, and adventure. The title track, originally performed by the Colorado Symphony in 2023, combines spoken word and orchestration, tracing RZA's journey from Staten Island to concert halls. Watch the trailer for the upcoming album now!
If You Feel Like Listening
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