From Cape Town's "Ghetto" to Atlanta: One Dancer's Incredible Journey

This story is absolutely incredible! Thanks to the kindness of a total stranger, a young dancer living in the most poverty-stricken area of Cape Town, South Africa has been given a once in a lifetime opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming a world-class ballerina! Check it out...

“Ghetto Ballet” is a documentary that chronicles the lives of four young ballet dancers living in one of the poorest towns on the outskirts of Cape Town, South Africa….One of the four dancers featured in the movie was Sibahle Tshibika. In the film, she is seen failing to make the cut for the dance company — the end of her dream, or so she thought.” ~ Quote: CNN

Click here to read all about Sibahle Tshibika’s extraordinary journey of hope, compassion and perseverance. For more information about the documentary, please click here.

{This is a cross-post from the Vala Dancewear and Class Act Tutu blogs, the most fabulously divalicious names in dancewear and costume design, if I do say so myself. *Grins*}

Whim W'Him on Vimeo

Check out this spectacular video of Whim W'him produced by Matthew Brown! Everything about this project was simply amazing. It was an honor to be a part of it, even on a very small level. I can't wait to see what Olivier Wevers and his talented team of dancers produce next!

*Please note that some of the subject matter may be inappropriate for sensitive/younger viewers. Therefore, parental discretion is advised.*

3Seasons from Whim W'Him on Vimeo.

Inspired by Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons," 3Seasons is a radical take on our disposable world. It draws together dancers from PNB, Spectrum Dance Theater, and the Seattle community in a thoughtful reimagining of Vivaldi's music by composer Byron Au Yong.

Post Show Q & A

For those of you who are interested, the link to the 3 Seasons post show Q & A, courtesy of KUOW 94.9 FM's Marcie Sillman, is up 'n running. Hear from Artistic Director, Olivier Wevers as he answers audience members' questions about the show and what 3 Seasons was meant to convey.

You can listen in by clicking here. Enjoy!! :)

Viva Whim W'him!

Olivier Wevers and his newly formed company, Whim W’him have done what no other dancer, choreographer or company has done before. The Seattle-based tour de force has shattered the glass barricade that once stood as the dividing wall between the world of ballet and the realm of modern dance, ushering in a new era of collaboration and artistry.

Whim W’him’s sold-out performances at On the Boards this past weekend packed an intoxicating punch of sound, light and movement. The triple bill featured Wevers previous works, X-Stasis (PNB’s Choreographer’s Showcase 2006) and Fragments (Spectrum Dance Theatre 2007), as well as the world premiere of 3 Seasons, Wevers first major collaborative effort.

X-Stasis is comprised of 5 couples making a unique statement about their world and their relationship to one another. Standouts from this performance include Jonathan Poretta and Lucien Postlewaite’s pas de deux which sizzled with poetic tension. Their execution was both complimentary and contradictory; a raw, edgy rendition of the proverbial yin and yang.

Chalnessa Eames dazzled in a delightful piece that felt a bit like an avant-garde rendition of Coppelia. Let’s just say her partner, the helpless mannequin, was no match for her seductive charms!

Kaori Nakamura and guest artist, Karel Cruz (PNB Principal Dancer) were utterly spectacular. Their pairing was exuberant, crisp and well-balanced; the perfect blend of power, delicacy and joy.

Fragments begins with a sweeping aria playfully mimicked by an amusing pair of friends. Kelly Ann Barton’s (Spectrum Dance Theater) and Vincent Lopez’s movements were light, fluttering, and beautifully in sync. Together they encompassed all that is childlike and well--whimsical, from their “twittering” hip rolls, to their playful dashing about the stage. Following the playful antics, Vincent Lopez gave a commanding solo performance as a tortured soul, longing and yearning to be free. Moving effortlessly through a series of well-crafted poses, Lopez is transformed into a living sculpture, relishing in its temporary freedom. Costumes by Christine Joly de Lotbiniere provided a delicious hint of Victorian flair, while Michael Mazzola’s thoughtful lighting cast the entire piece in a distinct, Renaissance glow.

Last but not least, was 3 Seasons.

Never have I seen such a decisive take on our modern world that fused together the elements of style, wit, humor and hope so beautifully. In fact, I have a feeling that this piece will serve as the springboard by which all other collaborative efforts will be judged, and provide Whim W’him with a prominent position in the annals of dance history.

The musical score consists of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons paired with a live corresponding movement by Byron Au Yong, which was nothing short of perfection. The tinkling of a toy piano, the hum of the violin and gentle percussion created a fun, exciting, youthful energy.

Designer Michael Cepress’ vision of pairing vibrant splashes of red on ruddy, human earth tone canvasses provided the perfect backdrop for this piece. The use of his re-designed sculptural collars, wire hanger skirts, and sullied leotards made for a stunning artistic display.

Jim Kent’s portrayal of the covetousness of human nature was thrilling. The object of his desire changes with whatever is put before him; a pillow, a lamp, a keyboard to finally a bird cage, which has to be placed on his head because there’s no more room in his hands. Kent—like society itself—is never content with what he already has, and is continuously seeking, grasping, and vying for more. The act was played for humor which the audience responded with more than a few “been there, done that” laughs.

Kaori Nakamura is used, abused and finally discarded and yet—she still manages to come out looking like the victor. Her stage presence leaves its own indelible mark of beauty behind.


Chalnessa Eames was effervescent and sensual. Vincent Lopez was completely brilliant and charming. Jonathan Poretta and Lucien Postlewaite were riveting, powerful, dominating, and fierce.

Ty Alexander Cheng and Kylie Lewallen were saucy, flirty and breathtaking. Their endless kiss reminded me of a pair of butterflies; lips locked with wings (arms) continually unfurling yet never intertwining.

Hannah Lagerway and Lucien Postlewaite writhed about in geometric splendor. I was impressed with Postlewaite’s skillful control and Lagerway’s incredible range. Indeed, her presence within this company is the icing on the cake.

With everything this company has going for it—excellent dancers, respected Artistic Director, dedicated fan base, and a growing list of collaborators—Whim W’him stands poised on the edge of a divine precipice, ready to be launched into the stratosphere.

Congratulations to you, Mr. Wevers and to your talented team of artists. Viva Whim W’him!

*Photos courtesy of La Vie Photography*

This post also appears on the Vala Dancewear Blog.

Daybook Entry

FOR TODAY...



Outside my window... billowing, powerful gusts of wind! I just hope our power doesn't go out later.


I am thinking... how amazing new dance company, Whim W'him's performance was last night and how blessed I was to attend. :)


I am thankful for... my awesome job! Where else would a former ballerina-in-training-turned-writer fit in so well?


I am wearing... yoga pants and a long-sleeved top in preparation for my workout.


I am remembering... snippets of last night's performance. That show was so incredible!


I am going... to work on writing my Whim W'him review. :) Other than that, I don't have to really "go" anywhere today. With it being MLK day, Abby's ballet school is closed and I ran my errands the other day, so I'm set.


I am currently reading... The Eat Clean Diet Workout, The Ultimate Guide to Homeschooling, and re-reading Pride & Prejudice.


I am hoping... that my review pleases the dancers and artistic director. (No pressure, right?...*Gulp*)

On my mind... how really good this "Trio" bar is! Yummy! It's got nuts, seeds and fruit in it. (Thanks, Rebecca! You're so good to me!)


Noticing that... one of the thoughts I penned whilst watching the show last night is *exactly* what is written in the program about what that particular piece was supposed to convey...Ugh! On one hand, it's nice to know I was on the right page (mentally) but on the other hand, it's a disaster because I'll have to come up with another way of articulating my thoughts! :o(

 
Pondering these words...it's too early. I've got nothing, sorry. :)


From the kitchen... nothing happening yet. However, I did just finish cleaning it as no one bothered to clean up while I was out last night. Nothing says "love and appreciation" like coming home to a messy kitchen. (Sigh) Half-kidding.


Around the house... lots of cleaning to do. It's amazing how "dirty" things can get after one day. :o/


One of my favorite things... the stillness of the early morning when the rest of the world (read: my kids) are still asleep. I'm free to write and get so many things accomplished in just a few hours. Love it!


From my picture journal...

              Abby in her custom-designed, colors-chosen-specifically-by her, tutu from Class Act Tutu.

To read other Daybook entries or to participate in the weekly meme, please click here.

Interview with Olivier Wevers: Part One

Attention Dance Enthusiasts: Click here to read the first installment of my exciting interview series with the supremely talented dancer, choreographer, and Whim W'him Artistic Director, Olivier Wevers!

Mr. Wevers is an incredible artist and I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to interview him! Thanks again, Olivier! Merde and viva Whim W'him! :)

Nutcracker Review Posted!

Visit the Class Act Tutu blog to read my formal review of Pacific Northwest Ballet's Nutcracker!

Also check out the Juicy Couture tutu sightings! Very fun stuff! ;o)

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Lesley Rausch as the Peacock
in PNB's Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker. Photo © Angela Sterling

Abby's New "Class Act" Tutu

As you can see, Abby LOVES her new tutu! She earned this stunning creation by "working" alongside me over at the Vala Dancewear office. Owner/operator, Rebecca offered to make Abby her very own, custom "Class Act" tutu as payment for a job well done. (Wasn't that sweet of her?!)

Abby chose the colors herself, as well as the style and length. The final product is a beautiful treasure....Thank you again, Rebecca. ((Hugs))