Company artists Derek Brockington and Lindsey Donnell from Dance Theatre of Harlem answer questions about the origins of ballet, making ballet shoes, and the blend of athleticism and artistry in dance. They discuss the physical demands and emotional rewards of being a dancer, as well as the self-expression and inclusivity in dance.
Ballet shoes are crafted for precision and elegance in performances.
Dance Theatre of Harlem redefines ballet through diverse styles and dedication to continuous improvement.
Deep dives
Exploring the Total Solar Eclipse Event
Parts of Canada, Mexico, and the United States will witness a total solar eclipse on April 8th. The event will darken the skies, potentially revealing the sun's corona, its outer atmosphere. A live special broadcast from the Fairbanks Museum with Director Mark Breen will be available for viewers on April 8th, highlighting this celestial phenomenon.
Visiting Dance Theatre of Harlem
A field trip to Harlem featured a visit to the Dance Theatre of Harlem, a professional ballet company preparing for their 55th season. The dancers demonstrated precision and elegance in their rehearsals, showcasing the hard work and dedication required in ballet. Rehearsal director Juan Carlos Pinuela guides the dancers artistically and technically, drawing from his own experience as a former dancer with the company.
Unveiling the World of Ballet
Ballet's origins trace back to the French courts in the 17th century, evolving over time to include diverse styles and stories. The Dance Theatre of Harlem embraces ballet as a form of expression that transcends traditional perceptions, incorporating a variety of music genres and themes into their performances. The importance of practice, daily classes, and continuous improvement underscores the dedication and athleticism required in the art of ballet.
Why do people dance? Where did ballet come from? How do you make pointe shoes for ballet? How does practice make you better at things? But Why visited Dance Theatre of Harlem to get answers to these questions with company artists Derek Brockington and Lindsey Donnell.