Motif’s 2017 RI Theater Awards
You can now vote on the 2017 Motif Theater Awards. Thank you for participating and supporting our theater community. For now, please vote and pass this link on to your friends! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/38CWVBS
Here’s a list of all the nominees – but you can’t vote below — go to the survey!! For a key to the abbreviations we’re using, check here. And many many thanks to the folks who helped – all the nominators, proofreaders, writers and fact checkers. Some of you put in significant time, some significant wisdom, and all are appreciated. If we made a mistake, please let us know right away at [email protected]!!
Winners will be announced at a free public event on August 13th at Fete Music Hall in PVD.
Theater/Production Nomination Company/School Improv/Audience Particpation Bring Your Own Improv – Bring Your Own Improv Fool’s Pudding – Providence Improv Guild Live Bait – AS220 Micetro Improv – CTC Wage House – Wage House Whodunnit – CTC – Youth Production of the Year – Bicycle Play! – The Manton Avenue Project Trinity Academy for the The Odd Couple – Female Version – Performing Arts Futureworlds: Uprising – AS220 Youth Hairspray Jr. – Footlights Jr. Seussical the Musical Jr. – Swamp Meadow Singin’ in the Rain Jr. – Academy Beacon Charter High School The Addams Family Musical – for the Arts – Favorite Variety Show/Cabaret – Charlie Hall’s Ocean State Follies – Empire Revue – Foster Follies at Swamp Meadow – Shakespereotica – Speak Sleazy Saturdays at the Dark Lady – Sweet Little Variety Show – The TropiGals – – Spoken Word Artist – Astrid Drew – Charlotte Abotosi – Christopher Johnson – Jared Paul – Reza Clifton – Vatic Kuumba – – – Musical – Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage – Trinity Billy Elliot – OSTC Blues in the Night – Academy The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Sister Act – TBTS Spring Awakening – Wilbury – Favorite Musical Production Number – “Electricity,” Billy Elliot – OSTC “I Just Might,” 9 to 5 – LTFR “No More Wasted Time,” If/Then – Academy “Puttin’ On The Ritz,” Young Frankenstein – SLP “The Aretha Franklin Medley,” Beehive – TBTS “Totally Fucked,” Spring Awakening – Wilbury – Male Lead in a Musical – Charlie Thurston as Beowulf – Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage – Trinity Christopher Swan as King Marchan – Victor/Victoria – OSTC Diego Guevara as Melchior – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Ian Hudgins as Larry Foreman – The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Jason Shealhy as Billy Bigelow – Carousel – Swanhurst Joseph Raposa as Franklin Hart – 9 to 5 – LTFR – Female Lead in a Musical – Eden Casteel as Victor/Victoria – Victor/Victoria – OSTC Elizabeth Dennis as Elizabeth – If/Then – Academy Katrina Pavao as Wendla – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Katrina Rossi as Moll/Sadie – The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Shandy Monte-Rapoza as Judy – 9 to 5 – LTFR – Best Supporting Male in a Musical – Aaron Blanck as Ernst – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Joe Wilson Jr. as Beowolf – Beowulf: A Thousand Years of Baggage – Trinity Matt Gorgone as Georg – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Nishan Lawton as Linus – You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown – Studio Paul Lucenti as Stephen – If/Then – Academy Peter Bowden in Various Roles – The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick – Supporting Female in a Musical – Amy McGuirk as Mrs Mister/Dr. Specialist – The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Ariel Batista as Kate – If/Then – Academy Jessie March as Ilse/Fanny Gabor – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Katie Manchester Silva as Soloist – Blues in the Night – Academy Kristin Wetherington as Norma – Victor/Victoria – OSTC Stefanie LaFontaine as Snoopy – You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown – Studio – Musical Direction – Alex Tirrell – Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat – Encore Rep Kristin Bond – If/Then – Academy Matt Requintina – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Noah Fields – The Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Anthony Torelli – Young Frankenstein – SLP – Choreography for a Musical – Ali Kenner-Brodsky – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Julia Gillis – Bring it On – Academy Mia Berube – Young Frankenstein – SLP Michael Maio – Godspell – Barker Michael Susko – Grease – New Bedford Trisha McGowan – You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown – Studio – Summer Production – 12th Night – Colonial Bring it on – Academy Sister Act – TBTS The Revenger’s Tragedy – Head Trick The Tempest – TRIST – Theater Concessions – Attleboro Community Theatre – Over the Top produced for Wilbury Festival of New Works by Bonky – Dolls, for integrated oreos (PVD) Community Players – Daydream Theater Company – Trinity Rep – – Most Exciting Creative Collaboration – “re-Source” – Christian Swenson & Friends play Human Jazz – AS220 & Multiple Artists !City Arts! & Brown In The Heights, Brown University Theatre – University Theatre: Festival Ballet & Tony Romeo & Juliet (collaboration) – Estrella Brown University & Monique Side Show Freaks & Circus Injuns – Mojica (with LeAnne Howe & Jorge Luis Morejón) Training Day – Bonky Dolls & RISD – Best Fight Choreography – A Furtive Movement, Vatic Kuumba – AS220 Walking Shadow Shakespeare Antony & Cleopatra, Jacob J Zentis – Company Macbeth, Ryan Stevenson – CTC Mr Burns, Brien Lang – Wilbury – Best Fests – 24 Hour Play Festival – CTC Festival 51 – Festival 51 Fringe Fest – Wilbury Funda Fest – RI Black Storytellers (RIBS) Modern Movement Festival – AS220 One Act Play Festival – Artists’ Exchange Queer Arts Festival – AS220 – Social Media Campaign for a Show – A Furtive Movement – Vatic Kuumba at AS220 Beowulf – Trinity James Franco and Me – Epic Lend Me A Tenor – RISE Marat/Sade – Out Loud You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown – Studio Theater Company – COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY – – Male Performance – Ben Church as Nick – The Great Gatsby – URI Clarence Donath as Capulet – Romeo and Juliet – CCRI Constantine Tsouros as Peter Pan – Peter and the Starcatcher – RWU Jason Roth as J. Robert Oppenheimer – The Love Song of J. Robert – Brown Oppenheimer Ray Fournier as Frank – School for Lies – URI Richard Flores as Usnavi De La Vega – In the Heights – Brown – Female Performance – Addison Powers as Black Stache – Peter and the Starcatcher – RWU Catia Ramos as Celimene – School for Lies – URI Celine Montaudy as Margaret – Good People – URI Katie Westgate as Nurse – Romeo and Juliet – CCRI Maya Blake as Hecuba – Hecuba – Brown University Theatre Victoria Jessop as Mary Ann – When We Were Young and Unafraid – CCRI – Direction – Alan Hawkridge, School for Lies – URI Ashley Teague, Invasion! – Brown Lori Lee Wallace, Peter and the Starcatcher – RWU Paula McGlasson, Spring Awakening – URI Spencer Golub, The Love Song of J. Robert Oppenheimer – Brown Ted Clement, Romeo and Juliet – CCRI – Favorite Overall Production – By The Way, Meet Vera Stark – Brown Good People – URI In The Heights – Brown Peter and the Starcatcher – RWU School for Lies – URI When We Were Young and Unafraid – CCRI – Set Design – Anya Klepikov – The Love Song of J. Robert Oppenheimer – Brown Katryne Hecht – Seussical – RIC Kent Homchick – Spring Awakening – URI Luke Sutherland – Romeo and Juliet – CCRI Miranda Friel – In The Heights – Brown – Costume Design – Alison Carrier – The Great Gatsby – URI David T. Howard – School for Lies – URI Josh Cape – Hecuba – Brown Marilyn Salvatore – Romeo and Juliet – CCRI Ron Cesario – By The Way, Meet Vera Stark – Brown – Favorite Ensemble Performance – Appropriate – Trinity Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic Coriolanus – Out Loud Cradle Will Rock – Head Trick Flu Season – Burbage Marat / Sade – OutLoud – Dance – – Dance Production of the Year – Ali Kenner Brodsky’s “PARt” – Jamestown Arts Center Commencement Dance Concert (Producer: Michelle Bach-Coulibaly) – Brown Nutcracker – IMC Princess & the Pea – SBRI Reunion: Meg Sullivan and Eloise Gold – AS220 Twas the Night Before Christmas – PBT – Principal Male Dancer of the Year – Anh Vo – Brown Azamat Asangul Uulu – IMC Boyko Dossev in Cinderella – Festival Jason Vu – Brown Michael Bolger – PBT Shane Farrell – SBRI – Prinicipal Female Dancer of the Year – Brenna DiFrancesco – Festival Brooke DiFrancesco – IMC Elizabeth Gharavi – PBT Jennifer Ricci – Festival Sarah Hsu – Brown Doppelganger Dance Shura Baryshnikov – Collective – PROFESSIONAL – – Male Lead – Chris Perrotti as Johnny – Frankie & Johnny – 2nd Story Joe Wilson Jr. as Martin Luther King Jr. – The Mountaintop – Trinity Richard Donelly as Sims – The Nether – The Gamm Tom Gleadow as Henry Drummond – Inherit the Wind – OSTC Tony Estrella as Teach – American Buffalo – Gamm – Female Lead – Eden Casteel as Victor/Victoria – Victor/Victoria – OSTC Emily Lewis as Frankie – Frankie & Johnny – 2nd Story Jeanine Kane as Elizabeth – King Elizabeth – Gamm Joanne Fayan as Shirley Valentine – Shirley Valentine – 2nd Story Mia Ellis as Camae – The Mountaintop – Trinity Phyllis Kay as Toni – Appropriate – Trinity – Supporting Male – Brandon Whitehead as Matthew Harrison Brady – Inherit the Wind – OSTC F. William Oakes as The Old Man – Prelude to a Kiss – 2nd Story Fred Sullivan Jr. as Bo – Appropriate – Trinity Jeff Church as Septimus Hodge – Arcadia – Gamm Jude Sandy as Demetrius – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Trinity Kevin Broccoli as Yvan – Art – 2nd Story – Supporting Female – Angela Brazil as Rachel – Appropriate – Trinity Rebecca Gibel as Hermia – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Trinity Casey Seymour Kim as Detective Morris – The Nether – Gamm Lara Hakeem as Rita – Prelude to a Kiss – 2nd Story Paula Faber as Mother – Harold and Maude – 2nd Story Valerie Westgate as Gregg Adams – The Best of Everything – 2nd Story Wendy Overly as Mary’s Nurse – King Elizabeth – Gamm – Direction – Fred Sullivan, Jr. – Inherit the Wind – OSTC Kent Gash – The Mountaintop – Trinity Kevin Broccoli – Harold and Maude – 2nd Story Mark Peckham – Frankie & Johnny – 2nd Story Rachel Walshe – The Children’s Hour – Gamm Tony Estrella – King Elizabeth – Gamm – Professional Production of the Year – Appropriate – Trinity Arcadia – Gamm Frankie & Johnny – 2nd Story Harold and Maude – 2nd Story Inherit the Wind – OSTC King Elizabeth – Gamm The Mountaintop – Trinity – Favorite New Work – Faithful Cheaters – Trinity Fuente Ovejuna – Trinity King Elizabeth – Gamm – Set Design – Max Ponticelli – Frankie & Johnny – 2nd Story Michael McGarty – Beowulf – Trinity Patrick Lynch – American Buffalo – Gamm Sara Brown – Appropriate – Trinity Sara Ossana – The Nether – Gamm Erik D. Diaz – Victor/Victoria – OSTC – Costume Design – David Costa-Cabral – Sister Act – TBTS David T. Howard, Jesse Jarbadan – Arcadia – Gamm Emily Taradash – Little Women – OSTC Olivera Gajic – Beowulf – Trinity Ron Cesario – Harold and Maude – 2nd Story – SEMI-PROFESSIONAL – – Male Lead – Alan Hawkridge as Marquis de Sade – Marat/Sade – OutLoud David Sackal as Brick – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic David Tessier as Jerry – Betrayal – Wilbury Dillon Medina as William Webster – Don’t Be Evil – Burbage Eric Behr as Dr. Dysart – Equus – Epic Jim O’Brien as Jody – Lonely Planet – CPTC Ian Hudgins as Ned Courtall – She Would If She Could – Head Trick Female Lead – Emily Rodriguez as Matilde – Clean House – CTC Kerry Giorgi as Maggie the Cat – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic MJ Daly as Jacqueline- Rasheeda Speaking – Epic Natasha Cole as Charlotte – Marat/Sade – OutLoud Tanya Anderson as Emma – Betrayal – Wilbury Valerie Westgate as Sydney – The Altruists – Burbage – Supporting Male – Chris Plonka as Carl – Lonely Planet – CPTC James Lucey as Man – The Flu Season – Burbage Jason Quinn as Reverend Benson – Bootycandy – Epic Phoenyx Williams as The Emcee/The Actor – Fascist Mash-Up – Wilbury – Supporting Female – Corinne Southern as May – Dirt – CTC Laura Kennedy as Elle – Dirt – CTC Lynne Collinson as Eileen – Rasheeda Speaking – Epic Michelle L. Walker as Big Mama – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic Rachael Perry as Bianca – Desdemona A Play About a Handkerchief – Burbage – Direction – Allison Crews – Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief – Burbage Theatre Josh Short – Spring Awakening – Wilbury Kira Hawkridge – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic Michael Ducharme – Lonely Planet – CPTC Rebecca Maxfield – The Revenger’s Tragedy – Head Trick Ricardo Pitts-Wiley – The Red Tent – MMT Tammy Brown – The Clean House – CTC – Production of the Year – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – Epic Desdemona: A Play About a Handkerchief – Burbage Equus – Epic Lonely Planet – CPTC Marat/Sade – OutLoud Spring Awakening – Wilbury – Favorite New Work (or significant adaptation) – 10,000 Things – Wilbury Bogie and Bacall: Goodbye and Hurry Back – Epic Don’t Be Evil – Burbage James Franco and Me – Epic Shana Fox Marceau’s DECO – SBRI The Final Voyage of X Minus One – CPTC The Red Tent – MMT A Furtive Movement: The Use of Farce – Vatic Kuumba at AS220 – Set Design – Branigan Duguay – Lonely Planet – CPTC Christopher J. Simpson and Rebecca Magnotta – Macbeth – CTC DS Kinsel – A Furtive Movement – AS220 Marc Tiberiis II – Cat on a Hot Tin Roof – EPIC Marc Tiberiis II – Marat/Sade – Out Loud Rebecca Magnotta and Ryan Sekac – Dirt – CTC – Costume Design – Hannah Lum – The Bedroom Plays – EPIC Kira Hawkridge – Marat/Sade – Out Loud Marissa Dufault – Birds of a Feather – Festival 51 Meg Donnelly – Mr. Burns – Wilbury Paula Brouillette – Souvenir – Granite Theatre Trey Hendley – The Final Voyage of X Minus One – CPTC – COMMUNITY THEATER – – Male Lead – Brad Kirton as Phileas Fogg – Around the World in 80 Days – RISE Dan Fisher as Howie – Rabbit Hole – Community Players Marcus Fisk as Maj. Steve Arnold – Taking Sides – Ren City Robert Grady as Tito Morelli – Lend Me a Tenor – RISE Roger Campbell as Randall P. McMurphy – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s – ACT Nest – Female Lead – Amy Corral as Phoebe – Romantic Comedy – Newport Playhouse Anne Faiella as Nurse Ratched – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest – ACT Elizabeth Labrecque as Beryl Stapleton – Hound of the Baskervilles, – RISE Rhode Island Stage Ensemble Tammy Mulrooney as Becca – Rabbit Hole – Community Players Kerstyn Desjardin as Susy Hendrix – Wait Until Dark – Barker Mackenzie Maron as Sylvia – Sylvia – Academy Meaghan Bruneault as Mary Poppins – Mary Poppins – Studio – Supporting Male – Doug MacAskill as Chief Bromden – One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest – ACT Jason Carol as Spike – Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike – ACT Kevin Broccoli as Numerous Roles – Around the World in 80 Days – RISE Michael Thurber as The Traveler – Ben Minus Zoe Minus Ben – Daydream Padriag Mahoney as Dr. John Watson – Hound of the Baskervilles – RISE Ryan Sekac as Helmuth Rode – Taking Sides – Ren City Terry Shea as Harry Roat – Wait Until Dark – The Players – Supporting Female – Carolyn Coughlin as Masha – Vanya Sonia – ACT Katherine Labrecque as Laura Lyons – The Hound of the Baskervilles – RISE Lauren Annicelli as Ariel – The Tempest – TRIST Melissa Thomas as Kate – Sylvia – Academy Nikki Boss as Claire Ganz – Rumors – Swamp Meadow Sandi Nicastro as Vera – Nana’s Naughty Knickers – Newport Playhouse Samantha Brilhante as Penelope Pennywise – Urinetown – Bristol – Direction – Aaron Gendreau-Visco – 9 to 5 – LTFR Bob Colonna – The Tempest – TRIST Jeanne Smith – Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike – ACT Lenny Schwartz – Ben Minus Zoe Minus Ben – Daydream Michael Martins – The Hound of the Baskervilles – RISE Rita Maron – If/Then – Academy – Production of the Year – 9 to 5 – LTFR August: Osage County – Footlights If/Then – Academy One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest – ACT Taking Sides – Ren City Wait Until Dark – Barker Rumors – Granite – Favorite New Work – Barry Weintraub: Legacy – Daydream Ben Minus Zoe Minus Ben – Daydream Donald, Ted & Marco – Elemental Theatre Rachel Hanauer at Artic I Love… What’s His Name? – Playhouse – Set Design – Jim Belanger – I Hate Hamlet – Arctic John Campbell – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – ACT Michael Martins – The Hound of the Baskervilles – RISE Rita Maron and Johnny Cagno – If/Then – Academy Tonya Killavey – Romantic Comedy – Newport Playhouse Roberto S.C. Soares – August: Osage County – LTFR – Costume Design – Christian O’Brien – I Hate Hamlet – Arctic Doug Greene – Vanya & Sonia & Masha & Spike – ACT Freya Hainley – The Hound of the Baskervilles – RISE Jeanne Smith – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever – ACT Johnny Cagno – Mary Poppins – Studio Sheila Burgess – multiple shows – SBRI
Leap Into Spring with Ballet
With many anxiously awaiting the spring thaw, area ballet companies are gearing up for the home stretch before closing their curtains for a well-deserved summer break.
Leading the way, following a critically acclaimed and groundbreaking world premiere of Romeo and Juliet that combined dance with the spoken word, is Festival Ballet Providence. They get things started Friday, March 24 with their final installment of Up Close On Hope. Past offerings have featured 10 to 12 short, unrelated pieces — many company and world premieres – but this program will showcase only Viktor Plotnikov’s full-length production of Carmen.
Plotnikov first set this ballet for FBP in 2003. As a relatively unknown choreographer, it served as a launching point for the former dancer who would go on to receive global praise and recognition for his engaging and quirky style. Though he now works with dance companies from all around the country, he continues to create original works for the dancers at FBP, serving as the company’s resident choreographer.
Artistic director Mihailo Djuric is thrilled to re-introduce Plotnikov’s Providence debut. He recalls how “Viktor came out of the gate with a bold and unique choreographic style that our audience immediately embraced. Transposing [Carmen] to the Black Box will give everyone a new and profound appreciation for his work.” This bold adaptation of the Bizet opera will feature plenty of seduction and passion with a surprising twist; brace yourself for something very different!
FBP will also close out their popular children’s dance series, chatterBOXtheatre, with newest company member Boyko Dossev’s The Little Prince. Based on the charming story by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, it is one of best-selling books ever published.
The timeless classic Cinderella will mark the end of FBP’s 2016/2017 season. Based on the choreography of company co-founder and longtime artistic director Winthrop Corey, Djuric promises that audiences will be swept away, adding “it is an honor to bring back a towering figure in Rhode Island dance to set his magnificent ballet on the company he helped create and led for many years.”
FBP’s final performances will also afford audiences one last opportunity to see prima ballerina Vilia Purtius, who announced that she will be retiring at the end of the season. She has been a fan favorite for the past 11 years. The spotlight will certainly grow dim in her absence.
For tickets or more information, visit festivalballet.com.
Across the bridge in Newport, Island Moving Company (IMC) is just getting ready to start the busy portion of their season. They are one of the few companies that perform year-round. Next up for them is Opening Weekend: A Collection of Attitudes 2017, a program covering two evenings of dance. It will debut a new work from Rodney Rivera, artistic director of Ballet Brio in Puerto Rico. IMC artistic director Miki Ohlsen will also stage her There’s a Party in My Mind and company oldie and original Psalms. Company members Spencer Gavin Hering and Shane Farrell, and former company member Danielle Genest, will also be presenting some new pieces.
In addition, IMC is excited to announce the return of Mother Goose at Rosecliff, a delightful recreation of the fairytale where children can pose for pictures with the characters/dancers and even get a chance to dance! The company will also once again host various dance companies from abroad for their popular Great Friends Dance Festival in July in Newport’s Great Friends Meeting House. This is a remarkable program that invites other companies to take up residency and perform alongside IMC in exchange for reciprocal performances on their home stage. Last year, the dancers experienced their first international exchange and traveled to Kazakhstan.
For tickets and an updated list of performances and events, visit islandmovingco.org.
Meanwhile, back on the mainland in Lincoln, The State Ballet of Rhode Island is busy preparing for their final performance, Phantomgreen Ballet Suite. Based on Hans Christian Anderson’s story The Princess & the Pea, it debuted in 1990 featuring world premiere music from composer Margaret Buechner and original choreography from SBRI artistic director Herci Marsden.
This charming production has been enchanting young and old alike. It derives its name from the nightmarish images of the dancing green peas that prevent the sensitive Princess Leonora from sleeping, thus confirming her identity as a true princess.
This ballet will run in Cranston’s historic and beautifully restored Park Theatre from March 31 through April 1. In addition to Phantomgreen, audiences will be treated to several classical and contemporary pieces from various choreographers set to an eclectic blend of music.
For tickets or more information, visit stateballet.com.
Providence Ballet Theatre is excited to announce Dance on Main St at The Greenwich Odeum in East Greenwich on March 18 and 19. This will be an evening of original works “that explore physicality, musicality and poetry in motion.” Junior company members will also perform alongside professional company members as they present a wide range of movements and techniques combining contemporary and modern dance.
For tickets or more information, visit providenceballet.com.
Woonsocket’s Heritage Ballet will close their season with the iconic classic Sleeping Beauty at the Stadium Theatre on April 1 and 2. For tickets or more information, visit heritageballet.com.
Romeo and Juliet: A Gift to the City
Festival Ballet Providence artistic director MIhailo Djuric is very excited about the company’s upcoming world premiere of Romeo and Juliet. Debuting February 10 – 12 at The Vets in Providence, he calls it his “Valentine’s Day gift to the city.” Recently, I had a chance to speak with Djuric and others involved in the production during a rehearsal break.
“So many Romeo and Juliets have been done with musicians, dancers, actors, so many experiments, I wanted something different,” explains Djuric. In order to create “something different,” he commissioned friend and choreographer Ilya Kozadayev. He also enlisted Gamm Theatre artistic director Tony Estrella to help complete his vision.
Djuric knew Kozadayev from his days as a dancer with Boston Ballet. He first worked with FBP staging his version of Hansel and Gretel for the company’s chatterBOXtheatre children’s dance series. “Ilya really wanted to choreograph a full-length ballet, but the time needed to be right,” recalls Djuric, who originally wanted to present Romeo and Juliet this past fall to coincide with the festivities commemorating the 400 years since Shakespeare’s death. “But Ilya’s schedule just wouldn’t allow that to happen.”
For Estrella’s part, he will be aiding in the most unique aspect of this ballet, combining Shakespeare’s text – spoken live on-stage – with the dancing and Prokofiev’s powerful score. He will be joined by actors Jeanine Kane and Richard Noble, two names very familiar to many RI theatregoers; they will be reciting the dialogue. It is when speaking about this collaboration that Djuric becomes especially animated.
He considers the state’s small but thriving arts community: “[We are all] very isolated, we live in a cocoon. We all need to inspire each other and work together. We all share the same audience.” Djuric certainly has done his bit, working in the past with photographers from RISD, as well as members of the school’s Cut and Sew Costume Studio. He also has commissioned local musicians to create original scores for many original FBP works.
Djuric believes it is his job as artistic director to expose his audience to different types of artists: “I am like a chemist, bringing things together to see if they work,” he says with a smile. He continues, “The spoken word adds another sense of drama,” explaining the actors will be serving as narrators who are also involved in the scenes. “I wanted something more than dancing and Prokofiev,” he concludes.
Estrella shares Djuric’s excitement, “Every time we are able to bring Shakespeare’s words to life on the stage is a treat. What makes this production especially exciting is that we are able to express the Bard’s poetic verse with both speech and movement.”
Kozadayev, the man charged with making it all work, heralds the seamless nature of this collaboration, “[The actors] help to propel the story forward. The choreographic language is classical – including the intense sword fighting scenes — but we have a modernized take on the ballet in the fact that we are incorporating the actors. You really can’t go wrong with Shakespeare.”
He also emphasizes the importance of the spoken words being “musical and appearing as a natural progression of the story. We wanted the words to make strong points.” As for the FBP dancers, Kozadayev offers nothing but praise: “They are great, open-minded, focused and motivated. It is obvious that they are a group accustomed to being created upon rather than always working with pre-existing choreography.”
Long-time company member Jennifer Ricci, now in her amazing 27th season, will be dancing the role of Juliet for the first time as a full-length ballet; up until now, she has only performed the balcony scene for Up Close On Hope. With her remarkably expressive face and body, this seems the perfect role for Ms. Ricci.
She will be sharing the spotlight during alternating performances with Vilia Putrius. Company newcomer, Boyko Dossev, formerly of Boston Ballet, will be Ricci’s Romeo; he too presents a very expressive and fluid style. Alan Alberto will be dancing opposite Putrius.
Thus far, Ms. Ricci is very impressed with Kozadayev’s interpretation: “I get goosebumps watching it. Especially the sword fights. It is all very dramatic.” When asked how it has been working with him, she gushes, “I love working with him. He is super creative and innovative. He makes everything work and everything just flows so easily.”
She has, however, encountered some difficulty in following some of his direction. “He didn’t want us watching any other versions of the ballet,” she explains. “He wanted our interpretation to be fresh.” She recounts the challenges in his wanting the girls “to act young, rather than emotional. Something that is pretty tough to do when you wake up in a tomb full of dead people,” quips the ballerina.
When speaking about Dossev, her eyes sparkle, “He is Romeo, with his charm and style of dance. He has truly been a blessing to work with. I have worked with him before on pieces that he has choreographed, so we know each other well and he has helped me through some tough times.” Her sister, with whom she was incredibly close, passed away unexpectedly several years ago. More recently, she has had to overcome a series of surgeries to repair a chronic foot injury.
And while Ms. Ricci’s focus is on dance, she enjoys the complementary effect of the spoken word: “It cuts scenes that would have made the ballet very long, making the transition from one scene to the next much smoother. As a scene comes to an end, the actors help break up what is going on. It also makes the ballet very powerful.”
Festival Ballet Providence’s world premiere of Romeo and Juliet runs February 10 – 12 at The Vets in Providence. For tickets or more information visit thevetsri.com. The Grinch Who Stole The Nutcracker
For the dancers at Festival Ballet Providence, the year’s production of The Nutcracker will be remembered as the year “The Grinch Tried to Steal Misha’s Nutcracker.” For nearly 20 years, the company has been staging artistic director Mihailo “Misha” Dujric’s version of this holiday classic.
About one week before Thanksgiving, Djuric and his assistant went to the company’s storage facility in Pawtucket to pick up some costumes so they could begin fitting them for several upcoming promotional appearances. Although Djuric observed some of the crates were “in a little bit different order,” he wasn’t overly alarmed. It wasn’t until he returned to the studio and opened the crates that his worst fears were realized — many of the costumes were missing.
All told, 52 items worth an estimated $30,000 were gone. Djuric figures the rental costs to replace the stolen items will be about $60,000. A partial inventory of the stolen items includes one of the three tutus for the Sugar Plum Fairy (the ballet’s principal female lead), the Mouse Queen costume, dozens of Swarovski crystal-studded hand-made tutus (valued at about $600 each), and the large, iconic Nutcracker headpiece – worth $2,000 alone!
But, in the true Christmas spirit, once news of the theft broke, dozens of ballet companies from around the country offered to lend them costumes. Among them, Rochester City Ballet, the Kansas City Ballet, Southern New Hampshire Dance Theater and Youth Ballet, Connecticut Ballet, Neglia Conservatory of Ballet, Commonwealth Ballet and Mobile (Ala.) Ballet.
With opening night just days away, costumes have started to arrive. Djuric is simply overwhelmed by the number of “individuals and companies who expressed their support and wanted to help. And it’s so, how do you say, so nice. It’s like It’s a Wonderful Life,” he proclaims. And, in addition to the donations, company spokesperson Ruth Davis notes “dozens of skilled costume and apparel sewers will work together with designer Freda Bromberg and FBP Artistic Director Mihailo Djuric to sew new pieces from scratch and make alterations to costumes.”
So while many have certainly earned their angel’s wings this Christmas, FBP dancers are most thankful that the show will go on. And, if they could, I am sure they would collectively echo the memorable words of Albert Finney’s Scrooge: “Thank you very much, that’s the nicest thing that anybody’s ever done for me.”
FBP’s “The Nutcracker” will run from December 16 – 18 at PPAC. For tickets or more information visit: ppacri.org.
The Holiday Dances into Hearts
With Christmas right around the corner, area dance companies are offering up a full menu of tasty options to help get you into the holiday spirit. Leading the way is Festival Ballet Providence preparing what artistic director Mihailo Djuric refers to as the company’s annual “gift to the city of Providence.” With majestic sets, stunning costumes, dozens of Swarovski snow-flakes and Djuric’s original choreography, FBP’s Nutcracker is a Christmas treat not to be missed.
For a second year, students from the company’s official school and Adaptive Dance program, a specialized program introducing children with Down syndrome to dance, will join company members on stage during the Act I Party Scene. Their beaming with joy alongside the professional dancers perfectly captures the true holiday spirit.
Djuric is also pleased to announce that many of the principal and soloist roles will feature dancers and couples performing these roles for the first time. One cast will feature the company’s newest member Boyko Dossev, who spent the last 10 years with Boston Ballet, dancing the role of Cavalier. Opposite him will be rising star Kirsten Evans as his Sugar Plum Fairy.
The always lovely Vilia Putrius and Alan Alberto will share the leading roles with Dossez and Evans during alternating performances. For the last eight seasons, Putrius danced this role with her husband and audience favorite MIindaugus Bauzys; he retired after last season. Though Putrius and Alberto have partnered together many times, this will mark their debut together in The Nutcracker.
And, for a remarkable 17th season, Archie the Nutcracker Dog, will make his mad dash across the stage during the ballet’s opening scene. The Yorkshire Terrier has performed in over 120 Nutcrackers. Covered in a red Santa suit and bells, he always draws loud applause. With his advancing age, though, Archie’s gait has slowed a bit, but one can’t help but ponder whether this is because he is getting old or because he is just soaking in all the adoration.
FBP will move into PPAC from December 16 – 18. For more information visit festivalballet.com. For tickets visit ppacri.org or call 401-421-ARTS.
If you are looking for something a little different, then head to Newport and check out Island Moving Company’s The Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff. Now in their 15th season, IMC’s production will feature company dancers, guest artists and children from dance studios throughout RI. Swarovski will also be contributing some bling for a special Nutcracker display to commemorate the company’s Crystal anniversary.
Under artistic director Miki Ohlsen’s watchful eyes, this unique production set in Newport’s historic Rosecliff mansion takes audience members from one room to the next as the action unfolds. The mice and soldiers battle it out on the foyer’s grand marble staircase. Later, in the elegant dining room, the Cavalier and Sugar Plum Fairy entertain all as if they are invited guests to a family Christmas party.
IMC’s Nutcracker runs November 25 – December 2. For tickets or more information visit islandmovingco.org. These shows usually sell out, so act quickly!
Meanwhile, in Cranston’s newly restored Park Avenue Theatre, the state’s oldest ballet company, The State Ballet of Rhode Island (now in their 57th season!) will present their annual holiday production of Coppelia. SBRI had been performing in Rhode Island College’s Robert’s Hall for decades, but they are thrilled to be moving into Cranston’s new state-of-the-art theater.
SBRI co-founder and artistic director Herci Marsden’s comedic ballet follows the exploits of a naïve young villager, engaged to be wed, who falls in love with a doll. Meanwhile, his fiancée watches his impassioned pleas to try and get the doll to dance with him. Intent on teaching him a lesson, she enlists the help of her friends. Things, however, take an unexpected turn when they enter the eccentric doll maker’s “magic” workshop.
Set to Leo Delibes festive score, Coppelia is a classic story about love and forgiveness. Older audience members can take a trip down memory lane and reminisce about first love while children can watch in amazement as wooden dolls suddenly spring to life. With colorful costumes and traditional folk dances, the snowy happily-ever-after ending will fill all with Christmas cheer.
SBRI’s Coppelia runs from December 2 -3 with a “Pay What You Can Event” matinee on Friday, December 2 at 10am. For tickets or more information, visit stateballet.com or parktheatreri.com.
Providence Ballet Theatre adds to the merriment with artistic director Eva Marie Pacheco’s original adaption of Clement C. Moore’s classic holiday story Twas the Night Before Christmas. And, once again, local personality Bruce Newbury will be returning to narrate.
With vivid choreography, moving sets and dancing reindeer, this charming ballet tells Moore’s familiar story in a way never imagined. This year, PBT will also be moving into a new venue, McVinney Auditorium, which, Ms. Pacheco explains, allows for the addition of “magic snow” that will make audiences feel as if they are part of the show.
PBT’s Twas the Night Before Christmas runs December 15 – 16 at McVinney Auditorium. They will also be performing at The Prout School on December 18. For tickets or more information visit providenceballet.com.
Fall Dance Is En Pointe
While August gives way to September, area dance companies are busy preparing for their 2016/2017 season. Leading the way is Providence’s resident professional ballet company Festival Ballet Providence.
Their season gets underway Halloween weekend with the popular “chatterBOXtheatre,” a dance series geared toward children, with an encore presentation of the “spooky Hansel and Gretel.” This will be followed by the first installment of audience favorite “Up Close on Hope,” a mixed repertoire of dance featuring world and company premieres. Both performances take place in the company’s intimate Black Box Theatre located in their Hope Street studio. Then the troupe moves into PPAC for their annual presentation of the holiday classic The Nutcracker.
After a brief winter break, they return with a world premiere of Shakespeare’s tragic story of the star- crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. It has been over 10 years since the company last staged this ballet and artistic director Mihailo Djuric promises to present a cutting-edge vision of this iconic classic. Gamm Theatre artistic director Tony Estrella and choreography Ilya Kozadayev collaborate to create a multidisciplinary production weaving together theater and dance. Djuric observes, “I’m thrilled to bring together Tony and Ilya, and cannot wait to see how they will draw on their combined talents and experiences to create a fresh and new retelling of this famous story.”
The second installment of “Up Close on Hope” features Viktor Plotnikov’s feisty and provocative Carmen. As a relative unknown, Plotnikov first staged this ballet for FBP in 2003. Since then, he has gone onto receive national and international critical acclaim for many original productions. Djuric gushes, “Viktor came out of the gate with a bold and unique choreographic style [audiences] immediately embraced.”
Frequent FBP contributor Boyko Dossev will then create the newest premiere for “chatterBOXtheatre,” a charming adaptation of Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s children’s story The Little Prince. Dossev, a former dancer with Boston Ballet, will also be joining FBP as a dancer, a very welcome addition to the company following Mindaugas Bauzys’ retirement; for eight seasons he thrilled audiences with his technical virtuosity and athletism.
FBP’s season concludes with Cinderella, featuring the choreography of FBP co-founder and long-time artistic director Wintrop Corey. “It’s an honor to bring back a towering figure in Rhode Island dance to set his magnificent ballet on the company he helped create and led for many years,” notes Djuric. Corey, who is currently the artistic director at Mobile Ballet, adds, “It’s always a joy to return to FBP and set my ballets on the company. The quality and the work ethic of the company is always a pleasure to work with. Cinderella will really show off the company and their skills.”
For tickets or additional information visit: festivalballetprovidence.org.
Newport’s Island Moving Company will continue presenting exciting, one-of-a-kind onsite productions starting with Second Star to the Right: A Tale of Hook and Pan. This premiere will feature dancers performing on the docks at Fort Adams and aboard the Oliver Hazard Perry accompanied by live music and an original score by Tobias Andrews.
They will then take up residence at Rosecliff Mansion for their annual holiday treat The Newport Nutcracker at Rosecliff. This magical production allows audience members to move from room to room throughout the mansion, getting so close to the action that you almost feel as if you are part of the performance; these shows sell-out quickly!
For tickets or additional information visit: islandmovingco.org.
Further north, The State Ballet of Rhode Island is preparing for their remarkable 57th season, but they do so with mixed emotions. Due to renovations, the will bid what they hope is a temporary adieu to Robert’s Hall on the RIC campus; it has been their home base for decades. But they are excited to be moving into one of the state’s newest theaters, Park Theatre in Cranston. This exciting venue also features several bars and restaurants all under one roof. SBRI will debut there with their annual holiday production of Coppelia. Featuring colorful costumes, Delibes’ festive score and dozens of talented young dancers, this enchanting ballet is great fun for all ages.
Be sure to check the company’s website for exciting in-studio events including Project Coffee Hour, a series of discussions/performances detailing how a ballet goes from studio to stage. Refreshments are served.
For tickets or additional information visit stateballet.com. Other performances of note:
Heritage Ballet: The Nutcracker, December 18-20; Cinderella, March 19 & 20. Both performances at the Stadium Theatre. heritageballet.com.
FirstWorks: Paul Taylor Dance Company, February 3. Rennie Harris Puremovement: Living Legacy Tour, February 24. Both performances at The Vets. first-work.org.
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker: December 5 & 6. Park Theatre. parktheatreri.com.
Fusionworks: Fusion Fest 2016, September 25 at Burr’s Hill Park. NECF Performance, November 5 at McVinney Auditorium. fusionworksdance.org.
Providence Ballet Theatre: “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” providenceballet.com.
Rhode Island Ballet Theatre: Holiday Show, December 18. CasinoTheatre. riballet.org.
2016 Motif Theater Awards
You can now vote on the 2016 Motif Theater Awards. Thank you for participating and supporting our theater community. More details on the awards show itself will come to this space soon. For now, please vote and pass this link on to your friends! https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SWF29KL
NOMINEES:
OVERALL
Improv / Audience Participation
Bring Your Own Improv, Warwick Museum of Art
Live Bait, 95 Empire
Micetro, Contemporary Theater Company
Providence Improv Guild, Southside Cultural Center
Youth Production of the Year
Aladdin Jr. – Academy Players of RI
Alice in Wonderland Jr. – Encore Kids Repertory Company Alice in Wonderland – Kaleidoscope Theatre
Legally Blonde Jr. – Footlights Junior Division Repertory
Tom Sawyer – Swamp Meadow Children’s Theatre
Musical
Anything Goes – Ocean State Theatre Company
In the Heights – Academy Players of RI
Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Passing Strange – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Musical Production Number
“Don’t Break the Rules” – Catch Me If You Can – Academy Players of RI
“Kansas City” – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
“Prologue” – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
“Puttin’ On the Ritz” – Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
“Step in Time” – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
“Together” – Gypsy – Ocean State Theatre Company
“We Just Had Sex” – Passing Strange – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Male Lead in a Musical
Charlie Thurston, Curly – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Jason Quinn, Narrator – Passing Strange – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Jason Shealy, Sweeney Todd – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Joe Catanzaro, Melchior Gabor – Spring Awakening – Academy Players of RI
Taylor Wright, Bert – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Tommy Labanaris, Dr. Frankenstein – Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Female Lead in a Musical Eden Casteel, Mrs. Lovett – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Hayley McDermott, Wendla – Spring Awakening – Academy Players of RI
Jessica Wagner, Reno Sweeney – Anything Goes – Ocean State Theatre Company
Katie Ann Clark, Morticia Addams – The Addams Family – Ocean State Theatre Company
Melissa McKamie, Mary Poppins – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Sara LaFlamme, Kim – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company
Supporting Male in a Musical
Bobby Sylvia, George Banks – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Brad Bradley, Igor – Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Brian Lopes, Judas – Jesus Christ Superstar – Encore Repertory Company
Jean-Pierre Ferragamo, The Big Bopper – Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story – Theatre By The Sea
Joe Wilson Jr., Jud Fry – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Tom Gleadow, Stephen Hopkins – 1776 – Ocean State Theatre Company
Supporting Female in a Musical
Alison Mahoney, Abigail Adams – 1776 – Ocean State Theatre Company
Gabrielle Dworkin, Friendly Therapist & Grandma Ida – First Date – Academy Players of RI
Maggie Papa, Johanna – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Mary Claire King, Inga – Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Pamela Lambert, Mother – Passing Strange – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Rebecca Gibel, Ado Annie – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Sammy Hartley, Ellen – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company
Musical Direction
Esther Zabinski – Anything Goes – Ocean State Theatre Company
Jean Maxon-Carpenter – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Juan Rodriguez – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Mark Colozzi – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company Michael Croiter – Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story – Theatre By The Sea
Michael Rice – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Choreography
Kevin P. Hill – Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Michael Susko – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Miki Ohlsen – Moment to Moment – Island Moving Company
Rita Maron – Catch Me If You Can – Academy Players of RI
Ronald Lewis – American Strippers – Epic Theatre Company
Russell Garrett – Gypsy – Ocean State Theatre Company
Sharon Jenkins – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Ensemble
American Strippers – Epic Theatre Company
Catholic School Girls – 2nd Story Theatre
Dracula – OUT LOUD Theatre
The Foursome – Newport Playhouse
Narragansett Valkyrie – Contemporary Theater Company
Spring Awakenings – Academy Players of RI
Stupid F*ing Bird – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Summer Programming
As You Like It – Head Trick Theatre
The Life and Death of King John – The Rhode Island Shakespeare Theater (TRIST)
Shakespeare in the Park – The Colonial Theatre
Young Frankenstein – Theatre By The Sea
Concessions
2nd Story Theatre, Warren
Arctic Playhouse, West Warwick Attleboro Community Theatre, Attleboro
Community Players, Pawtucket
Trinity Repertory Company, PVD
COLLEGE / UNIVERSITY
Male Performance
Conor Sweeney, Demetrius – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Brown University Theatre
Diego Guevara, Eric Harris – columbinus – University of Rhode Island Theatre
George Olesky, Tereus – The Love of the Nightingale – Brown University Theatre
Kyle Vincent Terry, Oedipus – These Seven Sicknesses – Brown University Theatre / Trinity Repertory Company
Nicholas Menna,“Teach” Walter Cole – American Buffalo – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
Taylor Santoro, Father Flynn – Doubt – Rhode Island College Theatre
Female Performance
Chelsea Titchenell, Janet Weiss – The Rocky Horror Show – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
Emily Carter, Faith – columbinus – University of Rhode Island Theatre
Helena Tafuri, Rosemary Sydney – Picnic – Rhode Island College Theatre
Kate Barrette – The Underpants – Rhode Island College Theatre
Stephanie Barney, Sister Aloysius Beauvier – Doubt – Rhode Island College Theatre
Uche Onwunaka, Oberon – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Brown University Theatre
Best Direction
Bryna Wortman – In The Next Room, or The Vibrator Play – University of Rhode Island Theatre
Kira Hawkridge – A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Brown University Theatre
Linda Sutherland – Picnic – Rhode Island College Theatre
Lori Lee Wallace – Underpants – Roger Williams University Theatre
Luke J. Sutherland – American Buffalo – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
Paula McGlasson – Legally Blonde: The Musical – University of Rhode Island Theatre Theodore R. Clement – The Rocky Horror Show – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
Best College / University Production
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Brown University Theatre
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Providence College Theatre columbinus – University of Rhode Island Theatre
Doubt – Rhode Island College Theatre
The Road Weeps, The Well Runs Dry – Brown University Theatre
The Rocky Horror Show – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
The Tempest – Roger Williams University Theatre
Set Design
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Sara Ossana – Brown University Theatre
The Caucasian Chalk Circle – Christian Wittwer – University of Rhode Island Theatre
Crimes of the Heart – Katryne Hecht – Rhode Island College Theatre
In The Next Room, or The Vibrator Play – Cheryl deWardener – University of Rhode Island Theatre
The Rocky Horror Show – Luke Sutherland – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
These Seven Sicknesses – James D. Palmer – Brown University Theatre / Trinity Repertory Company
Working – Matthew Paquin – Roger Williams University Theatre
Costume Design
American Buffalo – Marilyn Salvatore – Community College of Rhode Island Theatre
The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas – Charlotte Burgess – Rhode Island College Theatre
Legally Blonde: The Musical – David Howard – University of Rhode Island Theatre
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Ron Cesario – Brown University Theatre
A Midsummer Night’s Dream – David Cabral – Providence College Theatre
Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play – Corina Chase – Brown University Theatre
The Tempest – Priscilla Eighme – Roger Williams University Theatre
DANCE Production
The First Four – Doppelganger Dance Collective
The Freedom Project – Everett Company
Giselle – The State Ballet of RI
Hansel and Gretel – Providence Ballet Theatre
The House of Bernarda Alba – Festival Ballet
Lady of the Camellias – Festival Ballet
Moment To Moment – Island Moving Company
Principal Dancer
Anh Vo – Brown University Theatre
Brenna DiFrancesco – Festival Ballet
Elizabeth Gharavi – Providence Ballet Theatre
Kimberly Najjar – The State Ballet of RI
Mindaugas Bauzys – Festival Ballet
Shane Farrell – Island Moving Company
Shura Baryshnikov – Doppelganger Dance Collective
PROFESSIONAL
Male Lead
Anthony Goes, Stanley Kowalski – A Streetcar Named Desire – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Bob Colonna, Father Farley – Mass Appeal – 2nd Story Theatre
Jim O’Brien, Mick Dowd – A Skull in Connemara – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Joe Wilson Jr., Marc Antony – Julius Caesar – Trinity Repertory Company
Kevin Broccoli, Alex More – Buyer and Cellar – 2nd Story Theatre
Stephen Thorne, Atticus Finch – To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
Taylor Wright, Bert – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Female Lead Angela Brazil, Scout – To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
Anne Scurria, Julius Caesar – Julius Caesar – Trinity Repertory Company
Brittany Rolfs, Annie Sullivan – The Miracle Worker – Ocean State Theatre Company
Casey Seymour Kim, Deb Marshall – Grizzly Mama – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Marianna Bassham, Blanche DuBois – A Streetcar Named Desire – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Tammy Brown, Rita – Educating Rita – 2nd Story Theatre
Supporting Male
Amos Hamrick, Charles Simmons – The Rant – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Bobby Sylvia, George Banks – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Fred Sullivan Jr., Heck Tate – To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
Jonathan Fisher, multiple – Around the World in 80 Days – Ocean State Theatre
Patrick M. Saunders, Lance Sussman – Die, Mommie Die! – 2nd Story Theatre
Steve Kidd, Mitch – A Streetcar Named Desire – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Tony Estrella, Alexander Stern – The Rant – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Supporting Female
Betsy Rinaldi, Laurel – Grizzly Mama – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Kym Gomes, Denise Reeves – The Rant – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Laurel McMahon, Helen Keller – The Miracle Worker – Ocean State Theatre Company
Mia Ellis, Calpurnia – To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
Rebecca Gibel, Ado Annie – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Sarah Pothier, Martha Jefferson – 1776 – Ocean State Theatre Company
Wendy Overly, Maryjohnny Rafferty – A Skull in Connemara – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Direction
Brian McEleney – To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
Mark Peckham – Educating Rita – 2nd Story Theatre
Mark Torres – Around the World in 80 Days – Ocean State Theatre Company Michael Susko – Mary Poppins – New Bedford Festival Theatre
Rachel Walshe – Grizzly Mama – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Richard & Sharon Jenkins – Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
Tony Estrella – A Streetcar Named Desire – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Professional Production
Around the World in 80 Days – Ocean State Theatre Company
Buyer and Cellar – 2nd Story Theatre
Educating Rita – 2nd Story Theatre
Oklahoma! – Trinity Repertory Company
A Streetcar Named Desire – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
To Kill a Mockingbird – Trinity Repertory Company
The Winter’s Tale – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Set Design
Educating Rita – Max Ponticelli – 2nd Story Theatre
The Hunchback of Seville – Marsha Ginsberg – Trinity Repertory Company
The Miracle Worker – Ken Martin – Ocean State Theatre Company
Oklahoma! – Eugene Lee – Trinity Repertory Company
A Skull in Connemara – Michael McGarty – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
A Streetcar Named Desire – Jessica Hill – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
The Winter’s Tale – Patrick Lynch – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
Costume Design
1776 – Emily Taradash – Ocean State Theatre Company
The Addams Family – Jimmy Johansmeyer – Ocean State Theatre Company
Die, Mommie Die! – Ron Cesario – 2nd Story Theatre
The Hunchback of Seville – Olivera Gajic – Trinity Repertory Company
Julius Caesar – Olivera Gajic -Trinity Repertory Company Mary Poppins – Aaron Gendreau-Visco – New Bedford Festival Theatre
A Streetcar Named Desire – David T. Howard – The Sandra Feinstein-Gamm Theatre
SEMI PROFESSIONAL
(Companies with operating budgets and/or that offer pay to performers/staff)
Male Lead
David Tessier, Johnny “Rooster” Byron – Jerusalem – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Geoff Leatham, Richard Nixon – Frost/Nixon – Counter- Productions Theatre Company
James Lucey, Beane – Love Song – Burbage Theatre Company
Jason Quinn, The Narrator – Passing Strange – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Mark Carter, King John – The Life and Death of King John – The Rhode Island Shakespeare Theater
Michael Puppi, Johnny Appleseed – American Strippers – Epic Theatre Company
Ricardo Pitts-Wiley, Hoke Colburn – Driving Miss Daisy – Mixed Magic Theatre
Female Lead
Erika Rethorn, Antigone – Antigone – OUT LOUD Theatre
Jess Andra, Sara – Murder Ballad – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Kelly McCabe, Beth – Total Strangers – Epic Theatre Company
Linda Kamajian, Constance – The Life and Death of King John – The Rhode Island Shakespeare Theater
MJ Daly, Penelope – The Penelopiad – Epic Theatre Company
Rae Mancini, Titus – Titus Andronicus – Burbage
Victoria Ezikovich, Ali – Kill the Virgin – Counter-Productions
Supporting Male
Geoff White, Hubert – The Life and Death of King John – TRIST
Ian Hudgins, Charles Bingley – Pride and Prejudice: The Prom – Epic Theatre Company
Jonathan Fisher, Davey – Jerusalem – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Michael Shallcross, Casey – American Strippers – Epic Theatre Company
Terry Shea, Judge Turpin – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company Vince Petronio, Dr. Sorn – Stupid F*ing Bird – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Supporting Female
Allison Crews, Penelope Ryan – Happy Birthday, Wanda June – Burbage
Carolyn Coughlin, Lily – Kill the Virgin – Counter-Productions
Jackie Aguirre, Blanca, Princess of Spain – The Life and Death of King John – TRIST
Jeannie Carson, Sandra – Rose’s Money – Mixed Magic Theatre
Patricia Hawkridge, King Creon – Antigone – OUT LOUD Theatre
Rachel Dulude, Mash – Stupid F*ing Bird – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Rebecca Magnotta, Valentine Decker – Narragansett Valkyrie – Contemporary Theater Company
Direction
Christopher Simpson – Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Jeff Church – Titus Andronicus – Burbage Theatre Company
Jonathan Pitts-Wiley – Rose’s Money – Mixed Magic Theatre
Kira Hawkridge – The Penelopiad – Epic Theatre Company
Mark Peckham – Stupid F*ing Bird – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Michael Ducharme – Frost/Nixon – Counter-Productions Theatre Company
Wendy Overly – Happy Birthday, Wanda June – Burbage Theatre Company
Production
American Strippers – Epic Theatre Company
Antigone – OUT LOUD Theatre
Dracula – OUT LOUD Theatre
Frost/Nixon – Counter-Productions Theatre Company
Jerusalem – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Rose’s Money – Mixed Magic Theatre
Sweeney Todd – Contemporary Theater Company
Titus Andronicus – Burbage Theatre Company Best New Work
(Original script as opposed to a regional premiere of established work)
American Strippers – Kevin Broccoli – Epic Theatre Company
Original Adaptation of Dracula – Kira Hawkridge & David Nando Rodgers – OUT LOUD Theatre
Kill the Virgin – Kevin Broccoli – Counter-Productions Theatre Company
Memoirs of the Last Sicilian: A One Man Play – Nick Albanese, The SantRiana Theatre Group
Narragansett Valkyrie – Andy Hoover – Contemporary Theater Company
Planet Christmas – Andy Hoover – Contemporary Theater Company
Rose’s Money – Kevin Broccoli – Mixed Magic Theatre
The Social Avenger – Lenny Schwartz – Daydream Theatre Company
Set Design
Jerusalem – Monica Shinn – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Kill the Virgin – Branigan Duguay – Counter-Productions Theatre Company
Planet Christmas – Christopher Simpson – Contemporary Theater Company
The State Ballet of RI – John Boomer
Stupid F*ing Bird – John Christofferson – The Wilbury Theatre Group
Costume Design
Dracula – Nika Salazar & Kira Hawkridge – OUT LOUD Theatre
Frost/Nixon – Laura Minadeo – Counter-Productions Theatre Company
Happy Birthday, Wanda June – Wendy Overly – Burbage Theatre Company
The State Ballet of RI – Sheila Burgess
Sweeney Todd – Marissa Dufault – Contemporary Theater Company
COMMUNITY THEATER
(Companies with minimal or no operating budgets or self-identify as Community Theatre)
Male Lead
Adam Pedro, Frank Abagnale, Jr. – Catch Me if You Can – Academy Players of RI Ed Benjamin III, John Oldman – The Man from Earth – Attleboro Community Theatre
Jason Denton, Ebenezer Scrooge – A Christmas Carol – Shining Light Productions (Stadium)
John Campbell, Richard Roma – Glengarry Glen Ross – Attleboro Community Theatre
Johnny Sederquist, Jack – The Social Avenger – Daydream Theatre Company
Marcus J. Fisk, Lawrence Jameson – Dirty Rotten Scoundrels – Granite Theatre
Michael Eckenreiter, Eugene – Broadway Bound – Little Theatre of Fall River
Nick Autiello, Oswald – Assassins – The Players at The Barker Playhouse
Female Lead
Christine Pavao, Rosalind – As You Like It – Head Trick Theatre
Courtney Contente, Casey – First Date – Academy Players of RI
Emily Fleet, Dorothy – The Wiz – Studio Theater Company
Emma Yutz, Virginia O’Hanlon – Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus – Attleboro Community Theatre
Mary Paolino, Sister Aloysius – Doubt – Community Players of RI
Meaghan Bruneault, Mary Poppins – Mary Poppins – Encore Repertory Company
Olivia Sahlin, Courtney – One Slight Hitch – Newport Playhouse
Sara LaFlamme, Kim – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company
Supporting Male
Bill Pett, Banquo – MAC … Beth?! – Radioactive Theatre
Brian Lopes, The Engineer – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company
Bruce Church, Dan – The Man from Earth – Attleboro Community Theatre
Dave Almeida, Dave Moss – Glengarry Glen Ross – Attleboro Community Theatre
Duane Langley, Carl Hanratty – Catch Me If You Can – Academy Players of RI
Ryan Sekac, Freddy Benson – Dirty Rotten Scoundrels – Granite Theatre
Supporting Female
Elizabeth Messier, Sara Jane Moore – Assassins – The Players at The Barker Playhouse
Julian Ruth Trilling, The Ingenue – Social Avenger – Daydream Theatre Company Kelly McCabe, Major Margaret “Hot Lips” Houlihan – M*A*S*H – Swamp Meadow
Megan Ruggiero, Sandy – The Man from Earth – Attleboro Community Theatre
Rebecca Magnotta, Orlando – As You Like It – Head Trick Theatre
Sandi Nicastro, Marie – Flamingo Court – Newport Playhouse
Sonya Joyner, Mrs. Muller – Doubt – Community Players of RI
Direction
Becca Donald – Miss Saigon – Encore Repertory Company
Daniel Lee White – The Foursome – Newport Playhouse
Eric Barbato – Doubt – Community Players of RI
Joan Dillenback – Assassins – The Players at Barker Playhouse
Mario Jorge Carneiro – Glengarry Glen Ross – Attleboro Community Theatre
Rebecca Maxfield – As You Like It – Head Trick Theatre
Rita Maron – In the Heights – Academy Players of RI
Community Production
Assassins – The Players at Barker Playhouse
As You Like It – Head Trick Theatre
The Foursome – Newport Playhouse
Glengarry Glen Ross – Attleboro Community Theatre
The Man from Earth – Attleboro Community Theatre
M*A*S*H – Swamp Meadow Community Theatre
Spring Awakening – Academy Players of RI
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus – Attleboro Community Theatre
Set Design
Broadway Bound – Ken Rapoza – Little Theatre of Fall River
Deathtrap – Brian Mulvey – Community Players of RI
Flamingo Court – Tonya Killavey – Newport Playhouse The Man from Earth – Doug Greene, Alex Aponte, & Dave Blessinger – Attleboro Community Theatre
M*A*S*H – Eric Dubois – Swamp Meadow Community Theatre
A Murder is Announced – Dan Clement – The Players at Barker Playhouse
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus – Doug Greene – Attleboro Community Theatre
Costume Design
A Murder is Announced – Jillian Eddy – The Players at Barker Playhouse
Catch Me If You Can – Johnny Cagno – Academy Players of RI
M*A*S*H – Alicia LeBeau – Swamp Meadow Community Theatre
One Slight Hitch – Mary Elizabeth Perry – Newport Playhouse
Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus – Jeanne Smith – Attleboro Community Theatre
VOTE HERE
Up Close on Hope Is Must-See Entertainment
Festival Ballet Providence’s season finale of their popular Up Close On Hope is an evening of remarkably vivid storytelling. With heavy doses of gut-wrenching drama, this program is not for the faint of heart, for indeed when the final piece reaches its tragic conclusion, gasps are heard throughout FBP’s intimate Black Box Theatre followed by stunned silence when the lights are raised.
While past productions feature nearly a dozen vignettes with a mix of contemporary and classical dance — some fun, some serious — the current offering presents only two pieces, both world premieres, with each running a little over 30 minutes.
The program opens with frequent UCOH contributor Gianni Di Marco’s “Lady of the Camellias,” the emotionally charged story of Marguerite Gautier, a French courtesan and socialite who begins an illicit affair with a wealthy young man, Armand Duval. But, shortly after ending their affair at the insistence of Duval’s father, she succumbs to an illness, begging the question of whether or not a broken heart accelerated her demise.
Displaying Di Marco’s romantic flair, the piece unfolds like a series of colorful slides quickly moving from one scene to the next with the women in spring-like purplish gowns and the men in tights, dress shirts and vests. The choreography smartly and economically lays out the story, intensifying its dramatic impact: A simple cough and a hand to the stomach informs the audience that Marguerite is not well.
Jennifer Ricci delivers a stirring performance as the heartbroken socialite; she is one with the rare ability to tell an entire story via her facial expressions. I also could not help but consider the metaphorical implications of this story and Ricci’s dancing career. She has been a member of FBP for nearly three decades, but over the last couple of seasons she has been limited due to injuries. So while we all cherish her moments on stage, we can only wonder how much longer can she continue.
Courting two suitors at once, Duval and Baron de Varville, Ricci has a way of making partnering look fun and easy. Mindaugas Bauzys (Duval) and David DuBois (Varville) take turns gently handing her off to one another. Later, Ricci and Bauzys meet for a remarkably tender pas de deux highlighted by delicious promenades and effortless overhead lifts.
As Flora, Marguerite’s friend, young dancer Eugenia Zinovieva continues to impress, dancing a charming duet and holding her own alongside the veteran Ricci. Alex Lantz (Armand’s father) also has some fine moments highlighted by in incredibly cold pas de deux where he throws Ricci aside and tosses money at her.
But it is Ricci’s efforts both physically and emotionally that propel this piece. The final duet between her and Bauzys is heartbreaking with his lifting her limp body, desperately trying to give it life. Yet Ricci keeps turning the screws, with each lift and turn, her body becomes more and more lifeless until the final moment when she falls to the floor and Bauzys can only watch as her hand slips from his.
After intermission, the program turns dark with Plotnikov’s visually stunning The House of Bernarda Alba. Utilizing his familiar but unconventional style, the piece further breaks from tradition with some brief dialogue. Composer Sonya Belousova’s original score adds to the drama, giving it an eerie and haunting quality.
Bassed on Federico Garcia Lorca’s stage-play, Djuric claims “many choreographers in Europe take on the challenge of telling this gripping story as a ballet. In fact, I think it is more powerful as a ballet than a stage play.” Based on Plotnikov’s latest creation, it may be difficult to find fault in his conclusion.
The story depicts a domineering mother who, after the death of her second husband, orders an eight- year mourning period for her five daughters, isolating them from the outside world. Her relentless control over them descends into an explosion of tension, violence and sexual rage when two of her daughters become attracted to the same man, Pepe, whom they observe from a window in their home.
With a large screen covering half the stage, the production, in effect, becomes two stories being told simultaneously. Pre-recorded images of the dancers are projected onto the screen telling one story, while they dance in front of the screen, sometimes telling a separate story, other times reacting to what appears on the screen.
In person, the dancers wear black, ankle-length dresses with their faces painted white, suggesting an anonymity or lack of self. On the screen, their faces are not painted, suggesting a more concrete reality, an interesting dichotomy when contemplating that much of the tragedy occurs on the screen, not presented live by the dancers.
The choreography itself assumes a militant and regimented quality, enhanced by the dancers all wearing the same dark clothing. But it also features Plotnikov’s trademark frantic hand, arm and head movements, suggesting a sense of desperation and a yearning to be free. When one of the sisters defies her mother’s orders, putting on a green dress and attempting to run to her male lover, she is beaten down by her sisters.
As the overbearing matriarch, Marisa Gomer makes for a striking presence. The piece opens with her physically restraining her five daughters, pressing down on their heads while they lay stacked atop one another. The image of her continually projected onto the screen shaking her fist in a threatening manner serves as a chilling reminder of her dominance.
Zinovieva and Jaime DeRocker deliver powerful performances as the two daughters competing for Pepe’s (Alex Lantz) affection. Lantz and Zinovieva also dance a wonderfully provocative pas de deux with her cleverly climbing into his shirt.
Plotnikov’s House will leave audiences stunned, mesmerized and, perhaps, a bit disturbed. But it is another visual masterpiece from the choreographer’s gifted but somewhat twisted mind, a must-see!
FBP’s final installment of Up Close On Hope runs through March 13. For tickets or additional information, visit festivalballetprovidence.org.
Spring Dancers Are Light on Their Feet
With March comes the promise of spring and warmer weather. But for area dance fans, it also looks to be a month chock full of performances.
Festival Ballet Providence gets things started Friday, March 4, with the second installment of their popular Up Close On Hope, a dance series presented in the company’s intimate Black Box Theatre.
Featuring back-to-back world premieres, this program offers rich and passionate storytelling utilizing two distinct styles. The House of Bernarda Alba, the newest creation from internationally acclaimed FBP resident choreographer Viktor Plotnikov, “tells the story of a domineering matriarch whose relentless control over her mother and five daughters descends into an explosion of tension, violence and sexual rage.” With an original score commissioned by composer Sonya Belousova coupled with Plotnikov’s unique choreography, this piece will surely leave audiences mesmerized.
Generally presented as a play, FBP artistic director Mihailo Djuric states, “Many choreographers in Europe take on the challenge of telling this gripping story as a ballet. In fact, I think it is more powerful as a ballet than a stage play. But it is not often seen in the United States in this form, which is why I’m thrilled to see it come to life on our stage.” In addition to music and dance, this adaptation will also incorporate film with visual images projected onto a backdrop during the performance.
Completing the twin-bill will be frequent UCOH contributor Gianni de Marco’s Lady of the Camellias, an emotionally charged number retelling “the story of Marguerite Gautier, a French courtesan and socialite whose illicit romance with Armand Duval spirals into betrayal.” Such a piece perfectly suits de Marco’s fiery and charismatic style of dance. “It’s the kind of drama that audiences crave and I promise it will have you on the edge of your seat,” claims Djuric.
The curtain closes on FBP’s season the weekend of April 29 – May 1, with Swan Lake at The Vets. This performance also marks the “swan song” for beloved principal dancer Mindaugas Bauzys. For years he has been thrilling audiences with his power, grace and technical virtuosity; his departure will leave the spotlight straining for a suitable replacement. For tickets or additional information, visit festivalballet.com.
In March, audiences will get to meet RI’s newest dance company, Doppelganger Dance Collective, the brainchild of dancers and co-artistic directors Danielle Davidson and Shura Baryshnikov (yes, she is Mikhail’s daughter!). This collaboration features only the two dancers working with other artists, choreographers, dancers and composers. Their inaugural performance – The First Four — takes place on March 11 and 12 at the Granoff Center for the Creative Arts at Brown University.
Davidson and Baryshnikov first met while taking a Saturday morning technique class. They continued taking classes together, pushing one another to perfect each movement. Possessing similar “fierce physicality and versatile technique,” the duo felt they could offer an evening of bold and fresh dance. Baryshnikov explains, “Because of our self-same personalities and the fact that we were already calling one another ‘twinsie’ on the dance floor … [we felt] this [was] an incredibly exciting collaboration. Everyone who sees us dance seems to quickly recognize that we are meant to share the stage.”
The company’s debut performance actually encompasses a weekend of dance and enrichment with a symposium prior to the dance concert focusing on choreography, the creative process and collaborative partnerships. There will also be a free master class open to the public. As noted in a recent press release, “It is essential that the symposium provide community access to the participating choreographers, as well as offering community benefit through discussion of creative partnerships.”
With all that is happening during DDC’s opening weekend, the highlight will certainly be Davidson and Baryshnikov. They have commissioned four choreographers to create four original duets. They will also be accompanied by a string quartet led by cellist Adrienne Taylor, a member of Community Music Works and the musical director for this production. For tickets or additional information, visit doppelgangerdancecollective.com.
For the better part of a remarkable 56 seasons, The State Ballet of Rhode Island has been performing the timeless classic Giselle every couple of years and on certain anniversaries, making it the company’s signature ballet. Luckily for ballet aficionados, this is an “on” year with the company presenting the ballet March 18 and 19 at Robert’s Hall on the RIC campus.
There are few productions that better tell this heartbreaking story of love, betrayal and forgiveness better than SBRI artistic director Herci Marsden’s. Once again, audiences can expect to see Ms. Marsden’s well-drilled corps de ballet; her willis will give you the willies!
According to executive director Ana Marsden Fox, “What makes SBRI’s Giselle unique is that they are welcoming alumni dancers to perform the acting roles in the ballet. Working alongside alumni dancers, the ballet company is forming a strong sense of community in the dance world and keeping people connected to the arts.” In many SBRI productions, it is not uncommon for mothers and grandmothers to share the stage with daughters and granddaughters! For tickets or additional information, visit stateballet.com.
Island Moving Company, April 23 at The Vets. The Newport based company visits the city for the first time with a program of premieres. Pieces by California’s Colin Connor and New York’s John Mark Owen join a premiere by legendary dance great Bill Evans and works by Mark Harootian and IMC artistic director Miki Ohlsen. This milestone performance will also feature live music. Then, after touring Kazashstan, the company will move into the Great Friends Meeting House in Newport for their annual production of the Great Friends Dance Festival. For tickets or additional information, visit islandmovingco.org.
Fusionworks Dance Company, Unwrapped – Unlocking the Mystery of Making Dances, March 4 at Movement Exchange. Narrated by artistic director Deb Meunier, audiences go behind the scenes to see how dances are created from choreographer to dancer to musical selections. “Locally Grown Concert Series,” April 2 and 3 at Forman Theatre on the RIC campus. For tickets or additional information, visit: www.fusionworksdance.org.
Decadancetheatre, 4, Rhode Island College Performing Arts Series, April 21 at Robert’s Hall on the RIC campus. Led by artistic director Jennifer Weber, this international hip-hop company fuses authentic New York hip-hop style with classical music in their critically acclaimed version of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, featuring dancers from Nigeria, Norway, France, Japan and the UK. For tickets or additional information, visit ric.edu/pfa.
Moscow Festival Ballet: Cinderella, May 6 at the Zeiterion Performing Arts Center, New Bedford. Moscow Festival Ballet brings Cinderella, one of ballet’s most cherished story ballets, to The Z stage. Internationally acclaimed dancers, brilliant choreography, magnificent score and stunning costumes bring this timeless rags-to-riches fairy tale to life. For tickets or additional information, visit zeiterion.org.
Providence Ballet Theatre, Hansel and Gretel, April 8 and 9 at Sapinsley Hall on the RIC campus. This dramatic ballet features collaborations between choreographer, composer and designers, with the talents of local and professional dancers to create an all-new experience for all ages. For tickets or additional information, visit providenceballet.org.
Heritage Ballet, Cinderella, March 19 and 20 at Stadium Theatre in Woonsocket. For tickets or additional information, visit heritageballet.com.
BalletBoyz Dance into Providence BalletBoyz, the all-male dance troupe from London, dazzled a sold-out crowd at the Veterans Memorial Auditorium in Providence on Sunday, January 31. The performance was part of the FirstWorks Artistic Icons series.
The group, which won the National Dance Award for Best Independent Company in 2013, was founded in 2001 by Michael Nunn and Billy Trevitt, two former principals with the Royal Ballet. During their 12 years at The Royal Ballet between them they danced all the principal roles.
The show featured two routines. “The Murmuring,” choreographed by Alexander Whitley, was set to electronic duo Raime’s propulsive score. “Mesmerics” was choreographed by the highly acclaimed Christopher Wheeldon (artistic associate at The Royal Ballet) to music by legendary American composer Philip Glass. Videos of the dancers discussing their work were shown before the routines.
BalletBoyz also will perform in nine other cities, including Santa Fe, Houston, Dallas and New York. For more information about Balletboyz, go to their web site at balletboyz.com.
The FirstWorks Artistic Icon Series continues with “Walking with ‘Trane,” a new live music/dance event created by the Brooklyn-based Urban Bush Women dance troupe in tribute to the life of legendary jazz saxophonist John Coltrane and his seminal jazz suite, “A Love Supreme.”
Urban Bush Women created the work to celebrate two important anniversaries — 50 years since the revelatory A Love Supreme album and 30 years since the founding of Urban Bush Women. “Walking with ‘Trane” has its Rhode Island premiere on Saturday, February 27 at 8pm at The Vets in downtown Providence. Doors will open at 7pm for JumpStart festivities in the venue lobbies. Tickets are on sale now at 401-421-ARTS (2787) and at first-works.org.