March 24 – 29, 2009
Ballet goes multi-media in the world premiere of Gina
Patterson’s Silence, a portion of which
premiered in April 2008 as part of Richmond Ballet’s New Works Festival. The expanded version of this compelling
ballet, which is set to Arvo Pärt’s Tabula
Rasa and Fur Elina, will feature
new sets and costumes and an audiovisual collage that will build on and enhance
the powerful imagery and emotion in Patterson’s moving choreography. This collaborative effort promises to be an
unforgettable experience and is not to be missed!
From the Choreographer
Silence was inspired by the music of Arvo Pärt who speaks to us of universal themes through his
powerfully haunting score, Tabula Rasa, and through the spaciousness and
serenity of Fur Alina. Listening to the musical repetition and
meditative quality of Silentium, I had thoughts of reincarnation,
repeating patterns, habits in our lives and in our thoughts. The isolation and
vastness of the music set the stage upon which this work has unfolded. Whether
struggling with a war within ourselves, our relationships, or in the world, we
can choose to take a leap and change our patterns. We can find peace within the
stillness, the silence when alone in a quiet moment, in the dark of night, or
on a walk with miles ahead. This experience has allowed me to further discover the gifts of the talented
artists who have given so generously of themselves, providing a 'blank slate'
upon which to create.
~Gina Patterson
In sharp contrast to Patterson’s spiritual journey, Richmond
Ballet’s revival of Djangology will
tickle your funny bone and set your feet to tapping. Choreographer Val Caniparoli has set this
sassy, playful ballet to the music of famed jazz guitarist Django Reinhardt, and
puts the dancers through their paces with swingtime rhythms and a broad sense
of humor and whimsy.
Studio 3 is performed in Richmond Ballet’s Studio Theatre.
- Purchase tickets online here:
- Purchase tickets by phone: Call Ticketmaster at 1-800-982-2787
- Purchase tickets in person: Tickets can also be purchased by coming to the Richmond Ballet Box Office, located in the main lobby at 407 East Canal Street. Box office hours are Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Closed on holidays. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, cash and personal checks accepted.
Photos of Djangology by Val Caniparoli