| It's a small (Disney) world, after all
It was a friendship forged more than 25 years ago on the grueling stage of the Magic Kingdom. As fresh-faced "Kids of the Kingdom," Keith Mottola and Cheryl Swift performed at Walt Disney World five times a day, every day. They danced, they sang, and they smiled like Cheshire cats in what they call the "9,000-degree heat" of central Florida. And, like veterans of a battlefield, they never lost touch after their tour of duty was up. Now, two Broadway careers later, these longtime friends have reunited. Together, they're staging "Disney's Beauty and the Beast" for Steps Off Broadway, Mottola's Bellingham community theater company and performing arts school, with its two-weekend run opening tomorrow night. Swift, who served as the Broadway show's dance captain, is drilling the cast in the original choreography.
RNZB’S TOWER Tutus On Tour In A Town Nearest You
The Royal New Zealand Ballet is preparing to dance on your doorstep from Kaitaia to Invercargill with TOWER Tutus On Tour 22 February to 5 April 2007. The company will give more than 60 performances, working together with local presenters in each of the 48 centres in the North and South Islands. “TOWER Tutus On Tour is an incredible opportunity for the Royal New Zealand Ballet to perform in communities throughout New Zealand celebrating the very beginnings of our company,” says Gary Harris, Artistic Director of the Royal New Zealand Ballet. The Royal New Zealand Ballet began in 1953 by touring small towns throughout the country, and in these early days people from these communities billeted the dancers. “This is the RNZB’s biggest tour on our calendar.
Les Ballet Africains authentic to its roots
Spain has flamenco dance. Japan has kabuki. Kazakhstan has Borat (in a rather twisted sort of way). For the Republic of Guinea, the face of the country's culture and tradition long has been worn by Les Ballet Africains. Widely considered some of the top African dance performers in the world, the troupe has been in existence for more than 50 years, and in that time, it has been dedicated to presenting not simply a program of African dance, but specifically Guinean dance. "African dance varies a lot from state to state," said the show's production manager, Tim Speechly. "(For example) Ghana's style of dance is very different. It's very laid back and relaxed. Guinean dance is not like that at all. It's very full-on and powerful and nonstop. .
Ballet double in Bath
THE world-renowned Moscow City Ballet makes a welcome return to the Theatre Royal in Bath on Friday and Saturday, with a sumptuous feast of colour, spectacle and excitement for lovers of classical dance.The company of more than 70, including a live orchestra, will perform two of the most famous and best-loved ballet pieces in the repertoire, Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty.The triumphant acclaim of Moscow City Ballet's many international tours has firmly established its reputation as one of Russia's leading companies. Featuring colourful scenery, lavish costumes and ravishingly beautiful dance, this magnificent display of grace and artistry will delight ballet lovers and newcomers alike.To book seats contact the Theatre Royal box office on 01225 448844.
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