T
here’s something incredibly beautiful about ballet
that commands attention, something unique and
romantic that no over-engineered, technically
enhanced screen production can replicate or
replace. And in this day and age when computer generated
entertainment seems to assault our senses at every turn, it’s
inspiring to know that the art of ballet is as captivating as ever.
The captivation begins early, enchanting the hearts of little
girls and boys with equal influence as their natural affinity to
connect with music through dance often starts before they’re
even able to form words. And as their connection grows, so,
too does their focus on focused movement, channeling the
rise and fall of music into fluid, graceful actions that express
emotion in a way unlike any other. “Most young children are
very visual and respond to hearing music with movement, some
so much so that they seem to be dancing around the house all
the time, without even realizing it,” says Artistic Director and
CEO of Northwest Florida Ballet Todd Eric Allen. “The arts
are magical to children, and usually the kids that are movers
are naturally drawn to ballet—especially once they’ve seen the
beautiful costumes, scenery, lights, and the music come together
in a production.”
For companies like Northwest Florida Ballet, those
productions are indeed a magical thing to watch; and as
it dances into its 48th year, NFB is looking forward to
an upcoming season of truly memorable performances
by renowned dancers from all over the world as well as
presentations by local talents greatly gifted with the art of grace.
“We’re excited to be featuring many famous guest artists in our
upcoming season,” Allen offers, citing the names of principals
from some of the most celebrated companies in the world.
It’s an exciting season to be sure, starting things off with their
opening production, World Ballet Stars to unite the talents
of world-renown principals in one magnificent performance.
Staying on pointe with a performance of Giselle in October,
they’ll dance into the holidays with Nutcracker as well as “A
70 | VIPDestinMagazine.com
story by
Liesel Schmidt|
photos courtesy of
Northwest Florida Ballet & Jennifer Boles Photography
ADVENTURE
Art On-Pointe
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8/27/17 2:12 PM