Uwishunu.com

I had my ballet awakening a few years ago when a friend offered me an extra ticket to an experimental modern ballet performance. When I thought of ballet I pictured slow-motion dancers performing for a bunch of dozing senior citizens, or myself as a crying 5-year-old not wanting to put on my giant tutu. But I went along on a lark, and I’ve been hooked ever since. If you’re yet to experience such an epiphany, this summer is the perfect time: BalletX‘s Summer Series, running from July 22nd – 26th at the Wilma Theatre, is the ideal opportunity to shake off all those misconceptions and discover a truly remarkable art form.

BalletX’s goal is to redefine ballet and bring it into the new century. Although its dancers have all gone through rigorous classical training (most with experience at the Pennsylvania Ballet), their focus is on a contemporary sensibility that mixes athleticism, emotion, and intimacy. For a clearer picture of what exactly this means, read about this past April’s Spring Series here. The Summer Series features three dances, the first of which is a world premiere by guest choreographer Jodie Gates set to Ravel’s Bolero.

The second two pieces are BalletX favorites, both of which became instant hits when they premiered at the Live Arts Festival. Scenes View 2 presents a juxtaposition of hip-hop and classical ballet set to Bach, while Broke Apart features four portable bars that the dancers interact with, performing gymnast-like stunts.

So whether you’re a reluctant ballet-goer or already a fan, check out BalletX’s Summer Series. You might just get bitten by the ballet bug.

Ballet X Summer Series
July 22nd – 26th
www.balletx.org

The Wilma Theatre
265 South Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 546-7824
www.wilmatheater.org