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This week in ballet news, the world mourns the loss of Vladimir Shklyarov, the acclaimed Russian ballet star known for his exceptional artistry with the Mariinsky Theatre, who tragically passed away at 39 after an accidental fall. In an inspiring story of perseverance, Nguyen Kieu Trinh proves it’s never too late to chase dreams, embarking on her ballet journey in her 50s and mastering pointe work despite physical challenges. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is fostering inclusivity with its sensory-friendly “Magic of the Nutcracker” workshop on Dec. 15, offering adaptive classes and performances to create a welcoming space for all.
Looking for more stories? All you have to do is scroll away!
Photo credit: The Guardian
Acclaimed Russian ballet dancer Vladimir Shklyarov, renowned for his performances with the Mariinsky Theatre and international stages, has tragically died at 39 after falling from a fifth-floor balcony, with the preliminary cause ruled an accident. Colleagues and institutions worldwide mourn his passing, honoring his remarkable career, artistry, and contributions to ballet.
Nguyen Kieu Trinh defies ballet's conventional age norms, beginning her journey in her 50s and mastering pointe shoes despite the physical challenges of reduced flexibility and balance. Once a journalist and painter, Trinh now embraces dance as a path of self-discovery, proving that passion and perseverance can turn lifelong dreams into reality, regardless of age.
Photo credit: Nguyen Kieu Trinh, Tuoi Tre News
Complexions Contemporary Ballet, founded 30 years ago by former Alvin Ailey dancers Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson, revolutionized the dance world with its daring fusion of classical ballet and contemporary styles, emphasizing diversity and individuality. Renowned for its electrifying performances and signature style, the company continues to influence modern
dance while aiming to expand its educational programs and establish a permanent studio space.
Photo credit: Taylor Craft, Courtesy Complexions Contemporary Ballet
The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will host a sensory-friendly workshop, Magic of the Nutcracker, on Sunday, Dec. 15, featuring an adaptive dance class and a performance by ballet students at the Benedum Center. This inclusive event is part of the theater's broader sensory-friendly programming, which offers accommodations like lower sound levels and quiet areas to ensure a welcoming experience for all.
Nicol Edmonds, a first soloist with The Royal Ballet, emphasizes the deep connection dancers have with their footwear, likening it to a musician's bond with their instrument, as he remains loyal to Sansha’s split-sole slippers. Beyond the stage, ballet-inspired shoes are making waves in menswear, with designers like Gucci, Dior, and Molly Goddard reimagining ballet flats as elegant, modern, and androgynous accessories, blending fragility and style across diverse looks.
Photo credit: Alamy, Getty Images via The Guardian
If You’re Around This Weekend
The Civic Ballet's Snow Queen returns to the Tupelo Performing Arts Center on Nov. 23 and 24 as part of the annual Hope for the Holidays fundraiser, benefitting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Featuring its largest cast yet, the winter-themed ballet combines over 70 dancers, including senior performers Ella Grace Ramels and Ivey Kate Brand in lead roles, and typically
raises $10,000–$15,000 for the cause.
Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, the world-renowned all-male drag ballet troupe, brings their blend of technical prowess and comedic parodies of classics like Swan Lake to the Detroit Opera House on Nov. 23-24, accompanied by the Detroit Opera Orchestra. Celebrating their 50th anniversary, The Trocks continue to captivate diverse audiences with performances that challenge gender norms while delivering both laughter and awe-inspiring ballet.
If You Feel Like Watching
Be a fly on the wall in Prima Ballerina Tiler Peck’s morning routine as YouTuber, Danielle Carolan, takes you behind the scenes in her Instagram series, AM Uncovered. From Tiler’s go-to breakfast meal to how she prepares before Nutcracker rehearsal this video is definitely a must see!
If You Feel Like Listening
In this week’s episode of The Rosin Box podcast, hosts Claire Kretzschmar and Aarón Sanz discuss the significance of company class with Corps de Ballet Member Christina Clark and teacher Amanda Edge. The conversation explores topics from real estate and fashion to music preferences, emphasizing how the daily ritual fosters community and personal growth.
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