Dancing? Sport? Art?

I just thought this was phenomenal! I was in awe of the talent, stamina, coordination, musicality...

http://a.blip.tv/scripts/flash/showplayer.swf?file=http%3A%2F%2Fblip.tv%2Frss%2Fflash%2F1826380&showplayerpath=http%3A%2F%2Fblip.tv/scripts/flash/showplayer.swf&feedurl=http://soonereyo.blip.tv/rss/flash&brandname=blip.tv&brandlink=http://blip.tv/%3Futm_source%3Dbrandlink&enablejs=true

(Here's a shorter version of the link: http://blip.tv/play/Ae+9MJOSSA)

Georgia Dance Theatre Holding Nutcracker Ballet Auditions

Georgia Dance Theatre holds open auditions to every dancer in the community ages 6 & up for their upcoming production of the classic family favorite, The Nutcracker Ballet.

Auditions will be held Saturday, September 19th at the Peachtree City location of Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts.

All dancers that audition from the community will participate in this production which is funded in part by the Georgia Council of the Arts.

Audition Times:

Ages 6-8 2-3pm
Ages 9-11 3-4pm
Ages 12&up 4-5pm

Join us as we create an exciting holiday experience for your child!

For further information on upcoming auditions or Georgia Dance Theatre please visit our website at www.gadance.com or call (770) 631-3128.
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Georgia Youth Ballet Holding Nutcracker Auditions

Public auditions for Georgia Youth Ballet’s 14th annual performance of The Nutcracker will be held at The Studio in Fayetteville on Saturday, August 22nd.

The Audition Day Schedule is as follows:

11:30am-12:30pm - MANDATORY Meeting for All Parents
1pm-2pm - Auditions for Ages 6-10
2pm-3pm - Auditions for Clara, Fritz and Party Children
3pm-4pm - Auditions for Ages 11 and Up, Members of Junior Company and Senior Company Apprentices

GYB is a regional ballet company with more than 100 performers from seven south-metro counties. GYB’s Nutcracker is notable for its custom sets, costumes and choreography, all of which have been refined annually since the company was founded in 1996 in Fayetteville.

For more information, please call The Studio at (770) 716-9858. A map and directions to The Studio are posted on the Message Board link at www.gyb.us

Pictured are Shaun Strickland and Pharan Evans from GYB’s 2008 The Nutcracker.

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Atlanta Ballet Performs Mozart's Magic Flute at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre

October 15 - 24, 2009

Celebrate the past and ignite the future with Atlanta Ballet's start to the 80th Anniversary season, Mozart's Magic Flute, choreographed by Mark Godden. This tale is one of romance, adventure, and fantasy as our hero and heroine, the love-struck Tamino and Pamina, embark on a journey inspired by passion. Their enchanting love story causes the heart to yearn and mind to soar.

Godden's interpretation of Mozart's opera The Magic Flute carries this masterpiece to the present day. This captivating choreography will jolt the senses and blur the styles of contemporary and classical ballet. Godden is most recognized for his work at Royal Winnipeg Ballet. He has received critical acclaim internationally, won several awards, and had the great honor of choreographing and directing the Canadian portion of the Olympic Games Closing Ceremonies in Torino, Italy in 2006. Mozart's Magic Flute will be Godden's premiere in the Atlanta area and will leave audiences craving for more. Do not miss this exhilarating ballet that transcends Mozart's operatic masterpiece to new heights.

Mozart's Magic Flute runs October 15 through 24 for seven performances at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets start as low as $20. For tickets, call 800-982-2787 or stop by the Cobb Energy Centre box office. To purchase tickets online, visit www.atlantaballet.com or www.ticketmaster.com
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Georgia Youth Ballet Dancers Earn Scholarships

Last week, dancers from Georgia Youth Ballet attended the Southeastern Regional Ballet Association (SERBA) annual festival in Montgomery, Alabama. There they took classes from some of the best choreographers and directors in the world. Several GYB dancers also competed against dancers from SERBA companies from eight other states for scholarships to prestigious summer programs.

Two GYB dancers won scholarships. Pharan Evans, a senior at Starrs Mill High School in Peachtree City, won scholarships to two programs – Atlanta Ballet and Washington School of Ballet in Washington, DC. Evans will attend Atlanta Ballet’s program this summer.

Another senior, Kara Cawley from Flint River Academy in Meriwether County, also won two scholarships – to Alabama Dance Theatre in Montgomery and to Burklyn Ballet in Vermont. Cawley will be attending Alabama Dance Theatre.

GYB dancers will perform on Saturday and Sunday, May 30 and 31 in two different performances in Newnan. May 30 will see the debut of Tales from Neverland, an original retelling of the Peter Pan story choreographed by faculty of The Studio under the direction of Randi Lancaster. The next day (Sunday, May 31) will be GYB’s Company Concert.

This event is a wrap up of dances being rehearsed by GYB’s junior and senior companies over the past year, including the dance choreographed by GYB’s founding director, Magdalena Maury, that was performed earlier this month at the SERBA festival. Both events will take place at Newnan’s Wadsworth Auditorium.

Tickets are available at the door or by calling The Studio at (770) 716-9858. Tickets to each event are $10, with children 6 and under attending free. Patrons who bring Neverland tickets to the Sunday performance will a 50% discount.

Atlanta Ballet Updates the 2009 - 2010 Season

America’s longest continually operating ballet, and, one of Atlanta’s premier institutions has a big year coming up. Atlanta Ballet, known for always breaking ground and setting new trends is updating its exciting 2009-2010 Season. Celebrating its 80th year with a line-up of shows at the Cobb Energy Centre that include beloved favorites and company premieres

Company premieres set for the season include The Magic Flute (October 15 - 24), Pinocchio (one- hour family performances October 24 - 25), The Four Seasons with the 80th Anniversary Celebration (March 25 - 28), and Sheer Exhilaration, an evening of mixed repertoire (May 6 - 9). These new performances are sure to create a season you won’t want to miss. February 4 – 14, Atlanta Ballet will bring back to the stage the beloved classic fairytale, Cinderella. A perfect romance just in time for Valentines!

Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker will be celebrating 50 years with this year’s performances at the Fabulous Fox Theatre, December 11 – 27. Atlanta Ballet is also excited to announce the return of the wild and crazy Nutty Nutcracker (December 20).

This hilarious recreation of everyone’s favorite holiday story benefits the Atlanta Ballet’s Dancer’s Resource Fund. “You will have to come and see for yourself,” says Atlanta Ballet Dancer, John Welker, “I can promise you that it will be the best Nutty Nutcracker you’ll see this year.”

This season is filled with remarkable performances never before performed by the Atlanta Ballet as well as beloved favorites. Make sure to be a part of our exciting season, as Atlanta Ballet celebrates its 80th Anniversary. Season ticket packages range $84 to $360 and are still on sale. For current patrons, Atlanta Ballet staff will be on hand in the lobby throughout the run of Don Quixote, May 7 through the 16th at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. To order season tickets, call 404-892-3303, Monday-Friday, 10am–5pm or visit www.atlantaballet.com.

Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest continuously-operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals.

Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 80-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance.

Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.
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Classical Dance Theatre Spring Concert 2009

Classical Dance Theatre (CDT) will hold its 2009 Spring Dance Concert on Saturday, May 30 at Our Lady of Mercy in Fairburn. Curtain call is 7:00 p.m.

In addition to performances by CDT student dancers, principal and solo artists from the Southeastern Ballet Company (SBC) will perform throughout the evening. The concert will encompass various styles of dance including classical ballet, jazz, modern, contemporary, Irish, lyrical, and tango.

SBC director and resident choreographer, Yasmine Hassaan, will be showcasing four new ballets to be performed by SBC dancers during the evening including:

"Apassionada," a tango set to the music of William Joseph, "En Vogue," a ballet/jazz piece performed en pointe to music composed by rock legend, Robert Plant, "Mishima," a contemporary ballet piece inspired by the music of Phillip Glass, "Ensemble Classique," a piece comprised of four movements and dance styles, including Irish, lyrical, contemporary, and tango, all set to music composed by violinist, Vanessa Mae.

Also included in the concert will be a modern piece entitled, "Breathe Me," choreographed by Lorraine Davis (who is an up and coming choreographer as well as a principal dancer with SBC). Miss Davis has set ‘Breathe Me" to the music of Sia.

Young CDT student dancers will perform pieces in a variety of styles, as well, including classical ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop, and tap.

Our Lady of Mercy is located in Fairburn, at 861 Evander Holyfield Highway. Tickets for the CDT Spring Concert can be purchased at the CDT studio for $12, prior to the date of the concert, with a 20% discount for ticket purchases in quantities of 10 or more. Tickets will also be available at the door on the date of the show for $15.

For more information, call the CDT studio at 770-252-5515. Also, visit the CDT website at www.classicaldancetheatre.com or the SBC website at www.southeasternballetcompany.org.
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Atlanta Ballet Presents Don Quixote

Travel to sunny Spain for an evening of love and laughter in a joyous celebration of ironic wisdom and comic interludes in Atlanta Ballet’s presentation of Cervantes’ Don Quixote.

Audiences will be treated to an evocative and spicy feast of delightful footwork, fiery costumes and contagious energy as Atlanta’s professional dance Company serves up John McFall’s latest premiere.

The colorful ballet rendition focuses on the Don’s serendipitous role as matchmaker of spirited Kitri and dazzling Basilio. The episodes—A Square in Barcelona, The Gypsy Camp, Dulcinea's Garden, A Tavern in Seville, and the wedding—showcase a variety of styles and moods, from tangible Spanish joy to pantomime dancing to the acclaimed lovers’ pas de deux.

To highlight the confidently vivacious personalities of the characters, McFall, the dancers and the artistic staff, including Music Director Dan Allcott, have been working since fall of 2008 to create a performance that exudes the festivity and flair that Cervantes brought forth in his writing. Audiences will be able to savor the taste of the Spanish harbor town and the passion for love and life while they are delighted by Ludwig Minkus music performed live by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra.

“We’re incredibly excited to perform this fabulous craftsman’s inventive and charming composition,” said Allcott. “In a very facile way, Minkus picks up the rhythms and melodic shapes of Spanish music from the street and the court. He provides a canvas for one of the most important stories of Europe.”

Don Quixote runs May 7 through 16 for seven performances at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets start as low as $15. For tickets, call 800-982-2787 or stop by any Ticketmaster outlet or the Cobb Energy Centre box office. To purchase tickets online, visit http://www.atlantaballet.com/.

Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest, continuously operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals. Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 80-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership, Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance. Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.
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Fayette: McIntosh Chiefettes Summer Dance Camps

June 22-25 at JC Booth Middle School
July 13-16 at McIntosh High School
Times for both camps are 9-12:30 on Monday - Thursday with a Show and Yell from 12 - 12:30 on Thursday followed by a Recital from 12:30 - 1:00 (early lunch provided before recital). The cost is $95 and includes 2 dance routines instructed by your 3 time State Champion Chiefettes, snacks, lunch on the last day before the recital, t-shirt, and recital gift. Click here for more Information. You can also e-mail mhschiefettesevents@yahoo.com or phone at 770-632-5581.
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Georgia Youth Ballet Senior Competing in NYC

Pharan Evans, a Senior Company member of Georgia Youth Ballet in Fayetteville, recently represented GYB at a Youth America Grand Prix regional semi-final competition in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Evans, who is also a senior at Starrs' Mill High School in Peachtree City, placed third in the competition and won the right to travel to New York City in April for the finals in the international competition.

While in New York, Evans will also get to participate in a dance workshop with the YAGP international finalists and see performances of many YAGP former winners who are now professional dancers at a host of well known companies.

Evans is interested in dancing professionally and is weighing her college and career options. Evans has danced with GYB at The Studio, currently owned by Randi Lancaster, throughout her high school years. She is the daughter of Doug and Brenda Evans. Mr. Evans is an anchor and reporter for Fox 5 TV in Atlanta.

For more information, please visit GYB’s website at www.gyb.us.

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Barry C. Hughson Leaves Atlanta Ballet to Take the Helm at Boston Ballet

Barry C. Hughson will resign his post as Executive Director of the Atlanta Ballet, effective at the end of the Ballet’s performance season on May 17, 2009. He leaves Atlanta to take the helm of the Boston Ballet in Boston, Massachusetts, the country’s fifth largest dance institution.

According to Hughson, “My wife and I have loved our time in Atlanta, and we will miss this amazing Company, the City, and the dear friends we have made here”, adding, “We are also excited to be moving back to New England where we will be closer to our family”.

Over his two-year tenure at Atlanta Ballet, Hughson successfully engineered the move to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center, completed the sale of 1400 West Peachtree resulting in the elimination of the Company’s accumulated debt, resolved the dispute with the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra resulting in the return of live music to many of the Ballet’s performances, and developed the $14.8 million dollar “Choreographing Our Future” campaign. To date, the Ballet has secured $11.2 million dollars – 76% of the campaign goal. It is already the most successful fundraising campaign in Atlanta Ballet’s 79-year history.

“Barry has accomplished so much in his time here”, said Sandy Rose, Chairman of the Ballet’s Board of Trustees, “While we will miss him, he is leaving us in a unique position of strength as we move the Ballet forward, and for that, we are deeply grateful”.

The Atlanta Ballet will announce an Interim Executive Director in the coming days to ensure continuity and to continue the momentum that has been built under Hughson’s leadership. A national search will begin for Hughson’s permanent successor.

“Atlanta has a treasure in Atlanta Ballet, and I am proud to have been able to make a contribution to this remarkable legacy that began nearly 80 years ago”, said Hughson, adding “With the successes of the past two years, the Trustees can feel the wind at their backs, and are well-positioned to take the organization into the future”.

Hughson will begin his new position in Boston on June 1st.

Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest continuously operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet’s eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals.

Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 80-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, and for the past 14 years John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance.

Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.
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Music Legend Joins Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts

Georgia Academy of Dance & the Performing Arts is the premier performing arts school within our local community offering performing arts education with top professional instructors from around the nation. Joining their staff of performing arts professionals is Dr. Franklin Green, a Pi Kappa Lambda with a major in choral conducting, minor in vocal performance.

In addition to his doctorate of the University of Georgia, Dr. Green obtained his masters from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, majoring in music history and vocal concentration, and his bachelors from the University of Georgia, majoring in music education and vocal concentration and receiving magna cum laude honors. Throughout his career, Dr. Green has served as a church musician, public school choral director, and college professor around the southeast.

He also served on the voice faculty for Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville. For over ten years, his choirs have been nationally recognized, singing for state, regional, and national conventions for choral directors.

Before his teaching career, Dr. Green was a member of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Chorus and the ASO Chamber Chorus under the direction of the well-known, Robert Shaw. Additionally, Dr. Green has been a guest soloist with many regional colleges, universities, and choral societies and is sought after as a judge and clinician.

He currently teaches privately and directs the Georgia Singers. Georgia Singers, Inc. is a Georgia Non-Profit Corporation, which sponsors two community choirs for young women from grade seven through young adults with fifty plus members. Dr. Green is also the Coordinator of the Lexus Scholarships for the Stars program which annually provides $25,000 in college scholarships for future music majors from Fayette County. Additionally, he is a member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) and on the Board of Directors for the Georgia Division of the American Choral Director’s Association (ACDA).

Dr. Franklin Green will begin teaching private voice lessons at GAD & the Performing Arts in January 2009, adding yet another prestige artist and educator to their staff.

GAD & the Performing Arts private voice lessons provide students with a superior learning atmosphere enabling each individual to learn at their own pace. Additionally, their private lessons allow instructors to focus on individual weaknesses and strengths and cater to the student’s learning style. These lessons are excellent opportunities for in-school choral students to enhance their technique and progress at a much faster pace - without the intimidation of a large group setting. Introduction to voice consists of instruction in building foundations that last and developing essential skills for growing voices (ages 6, 7, & 8). Voice lessons, ages 9 & up, involves instruction in building a foundation, developing proper singing techniques, and ensuring the proper use of the voice (posture, breathing, warm-ups, tone, diction, rhythm, etc.)

Additionally, GAD & the Performing Arts provides the highest level of music education with exquisite facilities, private music rooms, and viewing windows. All students will have at least one performance per year. Additionally, intermediate to advanced students may participate in the Music Teachers National Association competitions if selected by the music instructor.

To register for voice lessons with Dr. Green or another music professional at GAD & the Performing Arts, you may do so online at www.gadance.com or come by the studio. GAD & the Performing Arts is located at 453 Hwy. 74 South, Peachtree City, GA. You can also contact the front office at (770) 631-3128.
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Atlanta Ballet's 80th Season, 50 Years of Nutcracker, John McFall's 15th Year

America’s longest continually operating ballet, and, one of Atlanta’s premier institutions has a big year coming up. Atlanta Ballet, known for always breaking ground and setting new trends announces its exciting 2009-2010 Season, celebrating its 80th year with a line-up of shows at the Cobb Energy Centre never presented by the Company before.

Kicking off the year will be an 80th Anniversary Celebration, October 22-25 which honors John McFall’s 15th year as Atlanta Ballet’s Artistic Director. The star-studded line-up will feature guest artists from distinguished companies across the country recognizing the rich history of professional ballet in Atlanta and ushering in the organization’s exhilarating future.

In keeping with everyone’s favorite holiday tradition, Belk, Inc. presents Atlanta Ballet’s Nutcracker, with music by Peter Illyich Tchaikovsky, for a limited three week engagement, December 11 through 27 at the Fabulous Fox Theatre. Audiences will want to make sure to get tickets early, especially as the Company celebrates 50 years of Nutcracker in Atlanta.

Mozart’s Magic Flute premieres February 11-20 at the Cobb Energy Centre. This magnificent production has been artfully updated by choreographer Mark Godden to enrapture new audiences with its grandeur. This opera’s familiar characters are all there in new post-millennium glory – TV-addicted Tamino, evil philosopher guru Sarastro, and crew-cut Queen of the Night.

Also in February, for our younger audience members, The Princess Suite is a fun and playful one-hour family ballet. This enchanting adventure, made for the entire family, featuring classic tales of princesses come to life. This show helps us escape to a magical place where good defeats evil and there’s always a happy ending. Only four matinee performances, February 20 and 21 – reserve your seats quickly.

Welcome the arrival of spring with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons March 25-28. Choreographed by James Kudelka, the stunning music and engrossing story will sweep you away. James Kudelka’s Four Seasons is a rich interpretation of the journey of life. This grand ballet will rivet audiences with its exploration of beauty and “everyman’s” passage from the springtime of youth to the winter of death. Atlanta Ballet is proud to be the first company outside of National Ballet of Canada to be chosen to perform this breathtaking signature piece. The evening’s program will also include additional works to be announced.

Finally, we close the season with another Company premiere, Lady of the Camellias, May 6-9. Choreographed by Val Caniparoli, with music by Frederic Chopin, this is a tragic tale of betrayal, revenge and selfless sacrifice. Val Caniparoli’s flowing and emotive choreography combined with Chopin’s romantic piano compositions make this Atlanta Ballet performance a fitting close to a grand season.

Season ticket packages range $54 to $361 and will go on sale Monday, February 9. For current patrons, Atlanta Ballet staff will be on hand in the lobby throughout the run of Dracula, February 5 through the 15th at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. To order season tickets, call 404-892-3303, Monday-Friday, 10am–5pm visit www.atlantaballet.com.

Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest continuously-operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals.

Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 80-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance.

Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.
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One Day Special Offer 50% Tickets for Dracula, Wednesday, January 21

The Count will return to Atlanta once again, but he will bite for the first time on the stage of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Center in Atlanta Ballet’s production of Bram Stokers’s Dracula. The always popular tale will run for eight performances, February 5 through 15, 2009 with live music by the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra.

This will be the fifth time that Atlanta Ballet presents Michael Pink’s version of this haunting, heart-pounding story ballet. The Ballet will once again bring world renowned choreographer Pink to the city to direct the drama, which is taken from his and Christopher Gable’s original production.

Set to Philip Feeney’s griping score which includes wolverine howls and haunting heartbeats, audiences follow the story of businessman Jonathan Harker to Transylvania, his destined meeting place with Count Dracula – a vampire who is a picture of courtly elegance and menacing force. Dracula, surviving on the blood of the living, casts spells over Jonathan, his fiancée Lucy, and her friend Mina. Only the audience will discover their fate in this terrifying yet romantic tale.

The event is presented by SunTrust. Tickets range from $15 - $95 and are available through Ticketmaster Arts Line at (404) 817-8700 or stop by any Ticketmaster outlet or the Fox Theatre Box Office. Order tickets on-line at www.atlantaballet.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Tickets for parties of ten or more can be ordered by calling 404-873-5811 X 207.
Founded in 1929, Atlanta Ballet is the longest, continuously operating ballet company in the United States. Atlanta Ballet 's eclectic repertoire spans ballet history, highlighted by beloved classics and inventive originals.

Among Atlanta Ballet’s proud and unique 75-year history are its three Artistic Directors, Miss Dorothy Alexander, whose vision brought dance to the South; Robert Barnett, who turned Atlanta Ballet into a professional company; and currently, John McFall. Under McFall’s leadership Atlanta Ballet continues its commitment to share and educate audiences on the empowering joy of dance.

Atlanta Ballet opened the Centre for Dance Education in 1996 and is dedicated to nurturing young dancers while providing an outlet for adults to express their creativity. With diverse class offerings and student population, the Centre serves over 150,000 people in metro Atlanta each year. Atlanta Ballet 's roots remain firmly grounded in the Atlanta community and continue to play a vital role in the city's cultural growth and revitalization.

Thursday, February 5 - 7:30 p.m.
Friday, February 6 - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 7 - 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, February 8 – 2:00 p.m.
Friday, February 13 – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, February 14 – 8:00 p.m.Sunday, February 15 – 2:00 p.m.
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STOMP to Teach Master Class at Crunch on Jan 29th

Patrons at the Crunch Buckhead gym are in for a special treat when cast members from the international percussion sensation STOMP teach a Master Class on Thursday, January 29 from Noon-1pm. “Stompers” will join Crunch instructors to bring some new moves to the floor when they teach a body percussion class! This will feature some of the smooth moves seen in the hit touring show and is free and open to the public, on a first come basis.

“We are so excited about having the ‘Stompers’ here at Crunch. It's a great opportunity for participants to learn the moves from the actual cast,” states, Jennifer Renfroe, Crunch's Regional Group Fitness Director.

During the entire winter schedule (January-March) Crunch Buckhead will offer a STOMP inspired class on Thursdays from Noon-1 pm for their members. They are located at 3365 Piedmont Road, near the corner of Piedmont and Peachtree, in Tower Place. For more information on the club call them at 404-262-2120 or visit them online at www.crunch.com. Crunch knows that students are looking for motivation to keep them interested in their fitness routine and they are hoping the STOMP inspired workout will keep them having fun! To help refine their own moves, some of Crunch’s top fitness instructors will be attending STOMP while the show is in town at the Fabulous Fox.

Crunch is a health club chain that leads the industry in fusing fitness and entertainment. Headquartered in New York City, Crunch serves over 100,000 members with 28 gyms in New York, Miami, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Atlanta. Renowned for its one-of-a-kind group fitness classes and unique programming, Crunch is more than a gym. It is a fitness community for all types of people, with all types of goals, exercising all different ways; working it out at the same place together.

Theater of the Stars will present STOMP at the Fabulous Fox Theatre from January 27 through February 1. Tickets are available at www.ticketmaster.com or 404-817-8700.

STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. As USA Today says, “STOMP finds beautiful noises in the strangest places.” STOMP. See what all the noise is about. For information on STOMP visit www.stomponline.com
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Line Dancine Classes in Tyrone and Fayette County!

Fayette County has a lot to offer for anyone interested in line dancing, whether you’ve never tried it before or if you’re a seasonal expert. Classes are offered at the Tyrone Recreation Center and the Fayette County Kiwanis Center covering levels from beginner to intermediate.

See below for classes that best meet your needs.

To register contact these recreation centers:
Fayette Classes – 770-716-4320 ALL CLASSES ARE 4 WEEKS
Tyrone Classes – 770-487-4694 ALL CLASSES ARE 4 WEEKS

Mondays - Fayette County Kiwanis Center - Beginner Classes at 6:30; Intermediate Classes at 7:30 p.m. Next Session begins February 2nd. $25.00 per person

Tuesdays - Tyrone Recreation Center - Day Classes - Beginners Only. Line Dance at Lunch - from 11:30 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. beginning February 3rd. $25.00 per personTyrone Recreation Center - Evening Classes - Beginner Classes at this time. Classes are from 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. beginning February 3rd. $25.00 per person. Intermediate classes may be scheduled on a different night based on demand. Contact Cynthia Baldwin at 770-487-3730 or cell 404-317-4779 if you are interested in an Intermediate Class in Tyrone.

Thursdays - Fayette County Kiwanis Center -Day Classes - Beginners only. Line Dance at Lunch - from 11:30 p.m. - 12:30 p.m. beginning February 5th. $25.00 per person

Fridays - Fayette County Kiwanis Center - Open Dance Party. Next scheduled party is the third Friday on February 20th at 8:00 p.m. $5.00 door fee. This party for class members and non-class members.Tyrone Depot - Dance Classes to be held from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. $5.00 fee paid to me.. Open Dance is scheduled from 7:45 - 11:00 p.m. $10 fee paid to Tyrone Depot for party. Classes & dance parties will be held on Friday, February 27th; Friday, March 27th, and Friday, April 17th. Monthly classes & parties will continue throughout the year based on participation.

All locations (except Tyrone Depot) require pre-registration through the recreation centers. Please rsvp to Cynthia Baldwin for the Tyrone Depot classes at 770-487-3730 or cell 404-317-4779 so they will know whether to hold classes.
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Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Celebrates 50th Anniversary in Atlanta Feb. 19 - 22

Features Live Onstage Performances by Sweet Honey In The Rock
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT) will return to Atlanta’s Fabulous Fox Theater, February 19-22, during a 50-city global tour in celebration of its 50th anniversary. Led by the world-renowned Artistic Director Judith Jamison, the Company will present a diverse repertory of exciting premieres, dramatic new productions, revered classics, and repertory favorites.

After its critically acclaimed, record-breaking season in New York, the internationally known Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater returns to the city to showcase the unrivaled beauty and power of Ailey dancers as they perform choreography infused with modern dance, African rhythms, jazz and ballet.

“We are ecstatic about the golden anniversary celebration of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater,” said Jamison. “Our anniversary tour would not be complete without stopping in the city of Atlanta.”

Atlanta audiences can look forward to new productions of historic works from the Company repertory: Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Blues Suite, first seen at the Company’s premiere performance in 1958, brings to life “blood memories” of rural, Depression-era Southern Texas poignantly evoking the sorrow, humor and humanity of the blues and Suite Otis (1971), by Tony-Award winning choreographer and former AAADT company member George Faison, is ripe with the romance and humor of young lovers out on the town in a sizzling suite of dances to the timeless songs of Georgia-native Otis Redding.

Additionally, AAADT company member Hope Boykin has choreographed Go in Grace; an innovative collaboration with Grammy-Award winning female a cappella musical group Sweet Honey In The Rock, who will perform their original score live onstage with the dancers for three performances. Due to its overwhelming popularity, every performance of the 2009 Atlanta engagement will culminate in Alvin Ailey’s beloved Revelations which features traditional African-American spirituals.

Before each performance in Atlanta, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at 50 – A Golden Anniversary Celebration, a short film commemorating the Company’s rich history, will be shown to audiences. Ailey’s 18-month 50th Anniversary celebration also includes commemorative merchandise: Hallmark Ailey greeting cards; Ailey Ascending, a photographic art book, by Andrew Eccles; Ailey Movado Museum Time Piece; A Young Ailey Dancer, a children’s book by Valerie Gladstone and Jose Ivey; and an Ailey Barbie® Doll.

To purchase tickets, call Ticketmaster at 404-817-8700, or visit www.foxtheatre.org or www.ticketmaster.com. Groups of 10 or more should call the Fox Theatre Group Sales hotline at 404-881-2000 for discounted rates. Special performances for student groups will be on Thursday, February 19 and Friday, February 20 at 10:30am; tickets are $10 and can be purchased by calling 404-881-2000. Detailed programming information is as follows:

Thurs 2/19 (student perf.)@ 10:30am ANNIVERSARY HIGHLIGHTS excerpt, REVELATIONS
Thurs 2/19 (evening) @7:30pm BLUES SUITE / CLASSIC AILEY HIGHLIGHTS/REVELATIONS
Fri 2/20 (student perf.)@ 10:30am ANNIVERSARY HIGHLIGHTS excerpt, REVELATIONS
Fri 2/20 (evening) @ 8:00pm GO IN GRACE* / SUITE OTIS / REVELATIONS
Sat 2/21 (matinee) @ 2:00pm BLUES SUITE / CLASSIC AILEY HIGHLIGHTS/REVELATIONS
Sat 2/21 (evening) @ 8:00pm GO IN GRACE* / SUITE OTIS / REVELATIONS
Sun 2/22 (matinee) @3:00pm GO IN GRACE* / SUITE OTIS / REVELATIONS

In addition to performances, AAADT will share its mission of bringing dance back to the people by presenting special master classes for Atlanta’s young people. Ailey will implement the Revelations: An Interdisciplinary Approach curriculum program in Atlanta Public Schools, thanks to the J.P. Morgan National Art of Learning Sponsorship. This program utilizes Alvin Ailey's signature work, Revelations, as the inspirational framework for a comprehensive study of language arts, social studies and dance.

Georgia Power is the sponsor of AAADT’s 50th Anniversary Atlanta Season.
Coca-Cola is the sponsor of the Family Matinee Program in Atlanta.
J.P. Morgan is the National Art of Learning Sponsor.
Citi provides major support for the Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation’s
Arts In Education and Community programs.
Altria Group provides major support for Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater’s New Works Fund.
MetLife Foundation provided leadership support for “Go in Grace.”
Movado Group provided major support for the new production of “Blues Suite.”
American Airlines is the Official Airline of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.
The 2009 North American Tour is sponsored, in part, by the National Endowment for the Arts.

REPERTORY FOR ATLANTA ENGAGEMENT
World Premiere

Go in Grace
Choreography: Hope Boykin
Music: Sweet Honey in the Rock (original composition & performing live onstage)
Company member Hope Boykin weaves a gentle, affecting tale of community, family and growth that illustrates the African proverb “it takes a village to raise a child.” Boykin casts the dancers and singers as members of a society who unite to move a young girl forward in wisdom and grace to a commissioned score composed and performed live onstage by Sweet Honey In The Rock. Rooted in a deeply held commitment to create music out of the rich textures of African American legacy and traditions, this Grammy-Award winning female vocal ensemble possesses a stunning vocal prowess that captures the multifaceted sounds of blues, spirituals, traditional gospel hymns, rap, reggae, African chants, hip hop, ancient lullabies and jazz improvisation.

New Productions

Classic Ailey Highlights (various excerpts)
A new program featuring choreographic gems from Alvin Ailey’s revered career, demonstrating the tremendous range and resonance of one man’s genius., including excerpts of Phases (1980), Landscape (1981), For “Bird” – With Love (1984), Caverna Magica (1986), Opus McShann (1988), his final work.

Phases (1980) / Composer: Pharoah Sanders, Donald Byrd, Max Roach
In this sensual jazzy section, Mr. Ailey brightly showcases femininity versus masculinity.

Landscape (1981) / Composer: Bela Bartok
Alvin Ailey’s moody, lovely landscape of dance styles was inspired by the choreographer’s travels in Eastern Europe and the music of Bela Bartok.

For Bird – With Love (1984)
Composer: Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie, Count Basie, Jerome Kern, Coleridge-Tatlor Parkinson
Mr. Ailey’s theme is the artist in conflict with society, as the ballet depicts the life of legendary jazz musician Charlie Parker. In this theatrically impressive section filled with elaborate props, costumes and sets, Charlie Parker invites Dizzy Gillepsie to a club, and highlights a snapshot of the duo’s real-life relationship.

Caverna Magica (1986) / Composer: Andreas Vollenweider
In a combination of athleticism and artistry, the male solo section of Caverna Magica glows with extraordinary jumps and turns. This piece exemplifies perfectly the “Ailey style”—choreography featuring a combination of jazz, ballet, and modern dance.

Opus McShann (1988) / Composer: Jay McShann and others
A choreographic portrait of Jay McShann, the “great practitioner of the Kansas City jazz piano style and living legacy of Kansas City jazz,” Opus McShann conveys the various styles this jazz master exudes through his music. From the sexy, beguiling duet in “Gee Baby Ain’t I Good to You,” to the comical meandering in “Doo Wah Doo,” Opus McShann presents the jazz doctor as a modern day African American icon with whom everyone can relate. The original Ailey dancers who first performed this piece studied swing, lindy-hop, and the jitterbug to perfect this lively and upbeat ballet’s movement style.

Blues Suite (1958)
Choreography: Alvin Ailey
Music: Traditional
Blues Suite marked the launch of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater at its premiere in 1958, and defined Mr. Ailey’s choreographic genius in presenting real people on the concert dance stage. With the rumble of a train and the toll of distant bells, a cast of vividly-drawn characters from the barrelhouses and fields of Alvin Ailey’s southern childhood are summoned to dance and revel through one long, sultry night, poignantly evoking the sorrow, humor and humanity of the blues. Dance Magazine wrote, “Blues Suite galvanized the crowd and announced the arrival of a major choreographer. The rest, as they say, is history.”

Suite Otis (1971)
Choreography: George Faison
Music: Otis Redding
The timeless music of pioneering soul singer Otis Redding sets the stage for former AAADT company member and Tony Award-winning choreographer George Faison’s playful battle of the sexes. The yearning sensuality of soul stirring songs such as “Satisfaction,” “Try a Little Tenderness,” “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” and other favorites burst through this wildly popular six-part suite of dances ripe with romance and humor.

Ailey Signature Masterpiece

Revelations (1960)
Choreography: Alvin Ailey
Music: Traditional
Alvin Ailey said that one of America’s richest treasures was the cultural heritage of the African-American—“sometimes sorrowful, sometimes jubilant, but always hopeful”. This enduring classic is a tribute to that heritage and to Ailey’s genius. Using African-American religious music--spirituals, song-sermons, gospel songs and holy blues--this suite fervently explores the places of deepest grief and holiest joy in the soul.

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater (AAADT), now celebrating its 50th Anniversary, recognized by the US Congressional resolution as a “Vital American Cultural Ambassador to the World,” was founded in 1958 and has performed for more than 21 million people in 71 countries and on 6 continents. Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation, Inc. is the umbrella organization which includes AAADT; Ailey II, founded in 1974 as a junior performing company of emerging young dancers and innovative choreographers; The Ailey School, founded in 1969 and currently offering some of the most extensive dance training programs in the world; Ailey Arts In Education & Community Programs which is committed to bringing dance into the classrooms, communities and lives of people throughout the world; and The Ailey Extension, a program that offers dance and fitness classes to the general public at Ailey’s permanent home, The Joan Weill Center for Dance, located at 405 West 55th Street (at 9th Avenue), New York, NY.
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