WESTERLY — Local dance fans can jump for joy over a newly formed partnership.
Through a collaboration between United Theater and Festival Ballet Providence – Rhode Island’s premier ballet company – dance enthusiasts will be able to experience the work of some of the world’s most sought-after choreographers first-hand, right here at Westerly.
An inaugural performance next week will mark the beginning of a “new era of dance for” the region, according to the Festival’s ballet director, Kathleen Breen Combes.
The first production, “a daring mixed program of contemporary and neoclassical dance by the world’s leading choreographers,” will include acclaimed contemporary choreographer Trey McIntyre’s “Blue Until June,” set to the signature music of R&B icon Etta James featuring ” Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s “Points of Return,” a work that demands a powerful display of athleticism and technique, Combes said in a statement. Also included will be a work on Bach’s cello suites by Festival Ballet’s artistic curator, Yury Yanowsky, former principal dancer of the Boston Ballet.
“It’s an exciting start to an ongoing relationship,” said Breen Combes, noting that the company plans to regularly showcase work “in this beautiful and versatile new space several times a season.”
The company will become the United Theatre’s resident dance company, according to Tony Nunes, artistic director of the theatre, who said in a statement that the partnership is “part of our commitment to bringing the highest quality artistic programming to our audiences.” .
“We are thrilled to be in residence at United Theatre,” said Breen Combes, noting that the partnership – which will give the company the opportunity to engage new audiences – is part of Festival Ballet’s efforts to “serve the communities across the state that has been our home for over 40 years.
The first performance will be “a great way for us to wrap up our season and kick off a whole new business,” said Breen Combes. “We’re excited about what’s to come!”
Nunes said the collaboration is another example of the United States’ commitment to providing ongoing relationships with arts audiences and including new and innovative community programs.
“We are thrilled with this new partnership with Festival Ballet,” said Nunes.
Festival Ballet Providence, New England’s second largest ballet company, is known for delighting audiences with a diverse repertoire of classical, neo-classical and contemporary dance. Founded in 1978 and in its 44th season, the company is dedicated to enriching the lives of its audiences and inspiring the community by presenting world-class dance. The company typically performs at three venues in Providence throughout its September through May season.
