Dearest readers,
The first buds are pushing through the earth, the days are growing longer, and a certain air of vivacity has descended upon the fair city of Ottawa! This can only mean one thing - springtime has arrived, and with it, the most glorious of seasons for a balletomane such as myself. The air seems to crackle with the anticipation of a new dance season, filled with fresh choreography, blossoming talent, and an abundance of pink! Oh, how I do adore the colour pink - a hue so utterly charming and perfect for the delicate blossoming flowers that grace our gardens and the delicate dance steps that grace our stages.
As a dedicated disciple of the dance, my ears are always pricked for news of upcoming ballets. This season, the offerings have been more enticing than ever, a veritable cornucopia of delight for the senses.
Let us first celebrate the return of the National Ballet of Canada to our beloved National Arts Centre, an annual treat that always makes my heart flutter! This year's programme promises to be a veritable whirlwind of exquisite talent and thrilling narratives. I'm absolutely smitten with the inclusion of a brand new work, Symphony in C, by the celebrated choreographer Crystal Pite, a name that resonates with excitement within the ballet world. Set to Bizet’s vibrant Symphony in C, this piece is rumoured to be an exploration of movement, energy, and the joyful interplay between the dancers. Oh, I simply cannot wait!
Speaking of exciting debuts, the Ottawa Dance Theatre is welcoming a new, fresh face to their ranks - the dynamic choreographer, Nadia Moisseeva. Nadia brings with her a passion for contemporary dance, and her piece Awakening, a dance that explores the beauty and fragility of the natural world, will undoubtedly resonate with this season’s spring theme. One simply cannot talk about spring without a nod to nature, and Ms. Moisseeva's creation promises to be a visual feast, a poetic ballet with delicate and intricate choreography, beautifully evocative of the vibrant colours and lush landscapes of spring. The company’s director has promised to use the entire stage, a veritable tapestry woven with both dancers and projection, making it an immersive and inspiring experience.
But let’s not forget the delight of tradition. The School of Ballet Ottawa, our local dance cradle of dreams, will be holding its annual showcase, an always delightful celebration of young talent, ambition, and hard work. It is always an enchanting affair, the stage brimming with vibrant young dancers and the auditorium reverberating with excited chatter. The perfect place to watch the stars of tomorrow make their debut, their little faces glowing with passion and the grace of a thousand delicate flowers swaying in the breeze!
However, it’s not all grand performances and sold-out auditoriums in the world of Ottawa’s ballet scene! This season sees a delightful new offering - The Ballet for Everyone – a series of workshops aimed at bringing the art of dance to the masses! I personally believe that ballet should not be reserved for the privileged few; everyone deserves a chance to experience the pure joy and magic of the dance. This innovative project, orchestrated by the dedicated staff of The School of Ballet Ottawa, offers workshops and open classes in a variety of dance styles, open to dancers of all ages and abilities. A true celebration of movement, community, and artistic expression!
However, my dearest readers, there is more to spring than just watching a performance - it’s about participating in the artistry! You might say, "I don’t dance!” But remember, ballet, in all its intricate forms, can be expressed even through your own daily walk! Look around you! See how the way you stand, how you carry your bag, how you wave goodbye - all can reflect the grace of a dance! This springtime, let’s all adopt a ballet posture, holding our shoulders back, drawing our neck upwards, and gliding with poise through the vibrant city. A newfound lightness and confidence will be your constant companion, a gentle reminder of the spring bloom within.
The world of dance in Ottawa, already bursting with talent, energy and passion, has certainly been invigorated by this joyous springtime season! It’s an exciting time to be a part of it, whether you're attending a grand gala or simply practicing a graceful walk in the sunshine. As I say, let's all embrace the elegance, the poise, the sheer joy of it all!
Until next time,
Your ballet aficionado, Emma
tutunews