THE LOUDOUN BALLET PERFORMING ARTS COMPANY IN THE NEWS…

WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE NEWS Here’s The Redskins’ Josh Norman Dancing “The Nutcracker” We went to practice with the NFL's highest-paid cornerback as he prepped for his starring role in a local ballet production. WRITTEN BY ELLIOT WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY EVY MAGES | PUBLISHED ON JANUARY 9, 2019

Josh Norman and Lauren Bacchus.

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The NFL’s highest-paid cornerback stood shirtless and ripped, wearing a pair of electric-blue harem pants. It was a Tuesday evening, and Josh Norman was taking a break from his duties as one of DC’s biggest sports stars to spend an hour in a Leesburg studio, where he was rehearsing for his role as the Arabian Prince in the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company’s production of The Nutcracker (Norman performed in support of his Starz24 youth foundation). He looked surprisingly at ease as he ran through the routine.

Part of the credit surely went to Norman’s dance partner, a Wakefield School junior named Lauren Bacchus, who has studied ballet for 12 years and practices 25 hours a week. The football star’s only previous experience came as a contestant on ; still, he basically aced it. “Teamwork makes the dreamwork,” he said after effortlessly hoisting Bacchus over his shoulder. Artistic director Lisa Startsman, who was guiding them through the sequence, seemed impressed. “We’re used to guys who aren’t as strong,” she said.

Not that it was easy. “When you think of ballet, you think of soft melodies, the grace and balance,” Norman said after he finished the evening’s stretching and twirling. “This is hard work, man.” He then mentioned his infamous feud with flamboyant New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.: “I made fun of him for doing all those spins and celebration . Now look at me.”

That tiff is ancient news, of course. Lately, a different controversy has had Norman in the headlines: his ill-advised trashing of Washington football fans for not, in his view, being supportive enough at home games. So given all the drama surrounding his football gig, perhaps Norman is considering a new career onstage?

Well, no. After all, even if he were willing to ditch that $75-million contract, fans would be just as mad about his quitting the NFL as anything else he does. “I’d be having all kinds of mail,” he said. “Just as much as I got now.”

This article appears in the January 2019 issue of Washingtonian. https://www.washingtonian.com/2019/01/09/heres-the-redskins-josh-norman- dancing-the-nutcracker/

NBC SPORTS Josh Norman to dance in local performance of 'The Nutcracker'

By Caroline Brandt November 09, 2018 6:16 PM 341 341 TRENDING NOW Adam Eaton is ready for Bryce Harper to sign with a team

Yes, you read that correctly. Josh Norman will be playing the role of the 'Arabian Prince' in a guest appearance with the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company in its rendition of the 'The Nutcracker.'

'The Nutcracker' will be put on at local Loudoun County high school, Loudoun Valley, located in Purcellville, Va. Starting Dec. 14, the Company will put on five different shows, with Norman's guest appearance on Opening Night, Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Norman is no stranger to dancing. In fact, he was a finalist on ABC's 'Dancing with the Stars' last season.

If Norman dancing in 'The Nutcracker' isn't enough to convince you to come out and see the performance, some of the proceeds from Norman's performance will benefit Starz24, the cornerback's charitable foundation which provides opportunities for youth to get involved in the community through fitness and team-building activities.

In a prepared statement published in The Loudoun Times-Mirror, Norman said: “I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for 'Dancing with the Stars.' I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport. I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24."

What better way to get into the holiday spirit than watching Josh Norman dance in 'The Nutcracker'?

https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/redskins/josh-norman-dance-local- performance-nutcracker

LOUDOUN TIMES MIRROR

FEATURED Redskins cornerback Josh Norman to guest star in Loudoun Ballet’s 'The Nutcracker'

• By Times-Mirror Staff • Nov 24, 2018

Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman was a recent finalist on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars." He will be dancing in Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company's "The Nutcracker" at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville on Dec. 14. Courtesy Photo/"Dancing with the Stars"

Washington Redskins star cornerback Josh Norman recently took his talents to the dance floor and was a

finalist on "Dancing with the Stars" on ABC. Now he will be showing off his dancing skills in a local performance of “The Nutcracker” with a guest role as the Arabian Prince.

Norman will dance in Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company's (LBPAC) show Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. at

Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville.

A portion of the proceeds from the evening’s performance will benefit Norman’s Starz24 Foundation.

Through community events and youth programs, Starz24 challenges youth to participate and excel in areas that develop strong interpersonal skills and awareness of the world around them.

Norman said he is honored to be in invited to be a part of LBPAC's show.

“I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for 'Dancing with the Stars.' I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport. I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24,” Norman said in a prepared statement.

Loudoun School of Ballet Executive Director Cherie Maroni said her dancers are thrilled to have him in their show.

“Josh’s energy and joy of dance are contagious. Josh will undoubtedly bring the magic of 'The Nutcracker' to life in his rendition of the Arabian Prince," Maroni said.

The local ballet company will present five "The Nutcracker" performances over three days: Dec. 14 at

7:30 p.m. and Dec. 15 and 16 at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Norman will be the special guest artist in the Friday evening performance.

Tickets for "The Nutcracker," including Norman’s performance, can be purchased at www.lbpac.org or by [email protected].

-Karen Grahamhttps://www.loudountimes.com/entertainment/arts/redskins-cornerback-josh-norman-to- guest-star-in-loudoun-ballet/article_fff12e2c-e43a-11e8-aba8-e736dde5aebe.html Bleacher Report Josh Norman to Dance in Loudoun Ballet's Version of 'The Nutcracker'

TIM DANIELSNOVEMBER 9, 2018

Nick Wass/Associated Press Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman will be making a special appearance in The Nutcracker. The ballet will be performed by the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville, Virginia, on Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. ET. Norman, who will play the part of the Arabian Prince, said Friday he's looking forward to the show, which will give a portion of the proceeds to his Starz24 Foundation, according to the Loudoun Times-Mirror: "I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for 'Dancing with the Stars.' I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport. I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24." Loudoun School of Ballet executive director Cherie Maroni added the dancers are looking forward to Norman's guest appearance. "Josh's energy and joy of dance are contagious," she said. "Josh will undoubtedly bring the magic of The Nutcracker to life in his rendition of the Arabian Prince." Norman reached the finals during the 26th season of Dancing with the Stars earlier this year before finishing as the runner-up to Olympic figure skater . The 30-year-old South Carolina native's Starz24 Foundation lists its mission statement as providing "enrichment to children through community events and youth programs." https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2805312-josh-norman-to-dance-in- loudoun-ballets-version-of-the-nutcracker

ESPN 'Nutcracker' and helping homeless give Josh Norman a mental break

From "Dancing With The Stars" to dancing in "The Nutcracker," Josh Norman has found a positive distraction from a tough season. Courtesy Sumser Photography Dec 14, 2018 • • ASHBURN, Va. -- He won’t be dancing with any stars, but he will continue to dance. Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman will make a cameo appearance in a local production of "The Nutcracker" on Friday night. It’s a way for Norman to raise a little money for his foundation; it’s also a way for him to stay mentally fresh during a turbulent time for the Redskins, losers of four games in a row.

ADVERTISEMENT That’s also why he spent Wednesday night handing out clothing items at several homeless shelters in Washington. He called that an early birthday gift. Norman said he decided to do this the previous night while sitting at home on his couch. Norman, who turns 31 Saturday, said he wanted to do this in lieu of doing something else for his birthday.

“What else is there for me to get?” he said. The past several weeks have been filled with stories about devastating injuries and the waiver claim of linebacker Reuben Foster and players upset with one thing or another -- their role, the coaches, teammates, fans. Wednesday provided perspective and respite.

“You always have to think positive,” Norman said. “I deal with it by helping other people out. It’s pretty cool when you can do that, give back to other people. Helps out a lot.”

Norman said the people he was handing out items to did not recognize him.

“They finally found out,” he said. “They were like, ‘Oh, shoot, you come down to see us?’ I was like, ‘Yeah, man, I came down to chop it up with you guys.’ Took a couple pictures, signed some autographs. It was just really cool and refreshing and rejuvenating. You ask why I come in and keep high spirits. It’s because I can do things such as that. It’s much bigger than football. It’s just cool.”

And "The Nutcracker" helps him out, too. The Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Co. approached him earlier this year about performing as a special guest. His one and only appearance as the Arabian Prince is Friday night. Half the proceeds will go to his Starz24 Foundation. Norman was on "Dancing with the Stars" earlier this year. While training for the show, he met some of the dancers at the LBPA.

When he was on the ABC show, Norman flew across the country and would return in time for Redskins spring practices. For the ballet, he has practiced once a week (on his off day) for a little more than a month at a local high school, he said.

“It’s cool; it’s something to do,” he said. “I’ve got to be doing something.”

He also knows some fans will be upset that he has spent part of his off time in a non- football activity at a time when the Redskins are losing.

“How are we held to a higher standard than a doctor or a physician?” he said. “I do what I do anyway.” http://www.espn.com/blog/washington-redskins/post/_/id/37869/nutcracker-and- helping-homeless-gives-josh-norman-a-mental-break

The Loudoun Tribune Redskins’ Norman Prepares for Role as Arabian Prince in

‘Nutcracker’ Dec. 14

• In Holidays, Sports • November 28, 2018

Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman is making the transition from “Dancing with the Stars” to dancing with “The Nutcracker.” Norman is scheduled to be a “guest star” for opening night when the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company presents “The Nutcracker” at Loudoun Valley High School Dec.

14-16. Norman will dance the role of the Arabian Prince in the performance at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 14. A portion of the proceeds from that evening’s performance will benefit Norman’s Starz24 Foundation. Through community events and youth programs, Starz24 challenges youth to participate and excel in areas that develop strong interpersonal skills and awareness of the world around them. “I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for ‘Dancing with the Stars,’” Norman said. “I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport. I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24.” Norman, who was drafted by the Carolina Panthers out of Coastal Carolina, was signed as a free agent by the Redskins after he made the Pro Bowl in 2015. He was ranked 59th in the list of the NFL’s top 100 players for this season. “Josh’s energy and joy of dance are contagious,” LBPAC Executive Director Cherie Maroni said. “Josh will undoubtedly bring the magic of ‘The Nutcracker’ to life in his rendition of the Arabian Prince. LBPAC dancers are thrilled to have Josh join them for a performance and to support his Starz24 Foundation.”

PHOTOS BY MARY YEE Washington Redskins defensive back Josh Norman pauses during rehearsals with LBPAC Executive Director Cherie Maroni and company dancer LaurenBacchus, who will perform alongside Norman as the Arabian Princess. TOP PHOTO: Josh Norman and Lauren Bacchus practice under the instruction of Artistic Director Lisa Startsman.

LBPAC is northern Virginia’s largest pre-professional ballet company, with nearly 60 dancers who range in age from 9 to 19. LBPAC is in the midst of its ambitious second season, with the goal of bringing the joy and artistry of dance to Loudoun County through full-length classical and original ballet productions. Performances of ‘The Nutcracker’ will be at 7:30 Dec. 14 and 2 and 6 p.m. on Dec. 15 and 16. All performances will be at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit lbpac.org. https://www.loudountribune.com/redskins-norman-prepares-for-role-as-arabian-prince- in-nutcracker-dec-14/

The F And C Radio Redskins' Norman to dance 'The Nutcracker' with Loudoun Ballet

BEN KRIMMEL NOVEMBER 10, 2018 - 10:28 AM

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Washington Redskin cornerback Josh Norman will be exchanging his cleats for slippers and swap-out safety help for an assist from the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Norman will be a guest performer during the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company's December 14 performance of "The Nutcracker."

“I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for 'Dancing with the Stars,'" Norman said via the Loudon Times-Mirror. "I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport."

Cherie Maroni, the executive director of the Loudoun School of Ballet, said the other performers were excited to have the NFL star join their company for a night.

“Josh’s energy and joy of dance are contagious," Maroni said. "Josh will undoubtedly bring the magic of 'The Nutcracker' to life in his rendition of the Arabian Prince."

The Arabian Prince, for those unfamiliar with Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker," appears during Act II in the the Land of Sweets. After the heroine Clara saves the Prince from the Mouse King, a celebration of sweets and delicacies is presented in her honor, including coffee from Arabia.

Norman, a former finalist on 'Dancing with the Stars,' is performing in support of his Starz24 Foundation, which provides "enrichment to children through community events and youth programs."

"I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24,” Norman said.

https://thefandc.radio.com/articles/josh-norman-dance-nutcracker-loudoun-ballet

NorthernVirginia MAGAZINE THINGS TO DO FEATURES Redskins’ Josh Norman makes stage debut in ‘The Nutcracker’

DECEMBER 12, 2018 by MICHAEL BALDERSTON0000 Star cornerback will have a one-night-only guest role in Loudoun Ballet’s production.

Photo courtesy of the Washington Redskins Josh Norman is a fixture on the gridiron every Sunday for the Washington Redskins, but this Friday will see him wearing a different kind of uniform in an entirely different kind of arena. Norman will perform a guest role for one night only as the Arabian Prince in Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company’s production of The Nutcracker.

Norman got to show off his dancing skills this past summer when he was a contestant on ABC’s Dancing with the Stars (he and his partner, , finished second to Olympic skater Adam Rippon and ). However, ballet wasn’t one of the techniques he picked up during the show’s run and The Nutcracker will make the first time he has ever performed in the style.

This all came about when LBPAC approached Norman about the idea, with a portion of the proceeds of his performance going to benefit his Starz24 Foundation. Norman’s charity challenges youths to participate in areas that develop strong interpersonal skills and awareness of the world around them through things like community events and youth programs.

“You get to go out there and share your holiday spirit and give something back to others in a way, [which] you’re expressing through dance,” Norman said in an email response about what he is looking forward to about the performance. The Redskins are still in the middle of their season, but Norman finds time about once a week for rehearsal on his off day. A benefit he’s finding is that some things cross over from the football field and the stage.

“Balance, a lot of control, lifting, that’s for sure,” he said. “I think those are similarities. The presence of stage, commanding that, becoming a character. It’s kind of fun.”

The curtain for Norman’s performance on Friday, Dec. 14, will rise at 7:30 p.m. When asked if he expects to have any nerves when the time comes, he said: “No, I think all the nerves go out, but you never know. I think every time you’re in a competition you get that stage fright, but it’s almost like a presence you have to command.”

Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company’s The Nutcracker will be performed at Loudoun Valley High School in Purcellville. In addition to the Friday performance, there will be two performances on both Saturday and Sunday (sans Norman). Tickets are still available for all performances. // lbpac.org https://www.northernvirginiamag.com/things-to-do/things-to-do- features/2018/12/12/redskins-josh-norman-makes-stage-debut-in-the-nutcracker/ USA TODAY Josh Norman will be dancing in local rendition of ‘The Nutcracker’

USA Today Sports Come December, Josh Norman will be trading in his football cleats for ballet slippers.

That’s right ballet.

Building off his “Dancing with the Stars” experience, Norman will play the role of the Arabian Prince in the Loudoun Ballet Performing Arts Company’s rendition of “The Nutcracker.”

From the Loudoun Times-Mirror:

Norman said he is honored to be in invited to be a part of LBPAC’s show.

“I met these talented ballet dancers at the Loudoun School of Ballet when I was rehearsing for ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ I have tremendous respect for their stamina, strength and commitment to the demanding sport of dance. Yes, sport. I am honored to be invited to join them on stage and to have another opportunity to dance in support of Starz24,” Norman said in a prepared statement.

Loudoun School of Ballet Executive Director Cherie Maroni said her dancers are thrilled to have him in their show.

“Josh’s energy and joy of dance are contagious. Josh will undoubtedly bring the magic of ‘The Nutcracker’ to life in his rendition of the Arabian Prince,” Maroni said.

Norman will actually be in just one of performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 14. Portions of the proceeds from the performance will benefit his Starz24 Foundation.

https://redskinswire.usatoday.com/2018/11/09/josh-norman-will-be-dancing-in-local-rendition-of-the-nutcracker/