Tag Archives | Nashville Ballet

Nashville Ballet To Present Attitude: A Two-Part Virtual Series Featuring Smash-Hit Under The Lights, With Music By Johnny Cash

By on January 19, 2021 in In The Press, Press Releases

NASHVILLE, TENN. (Jan. 19, 2021) – Following the success of the televised premiere of Nashville’s Nutcracker, Nashville Ballet presents its next installment of virtual content with Attitude, a two-part series set to release digitally March 5 through 7 and April 2 through 4. Due to the evolving situation surrounding COVID-19, this will replace the previously scheduled performances of Attitude: New Works by Women. Featuring three unique works in a two-part virtual series, Attitude Part I and Part II will focus on presenting audience favorites that highlight the wealth of artistry native to Nashville. 

Premiering March 5 through 7, 2021, Attitude Part I will feature two fan-favorite works: the smash-hit Johnny Cash ballet, Under the Lights, and Jennifer Archibald’s Superstitions. Originally choreographed in 2014 by former Nashville Ballet Company Dancer and Resident Choreographer Christopher Stuart, Under the Lights gives viewers a unique glimpse into the life and legacy of the infamous “Man in Black”. A uniquely Nashville collaboration, the ballet is set to iconic Cash tunes such as “Folsom,” “I Walk the Line,” and “God’s Gonna Cut You Down,” recorded by Nashville-based duo Sugar + The Hi-Lows with their signature rockabilly twist. 

“Daring and romantic, Under the Lights celebrates the musical legacy of Cash and his beloved June Carter Cash, while honoring one of music’s great love stories,” wrote Amy Stumpfl for The Tennessean.

Joining this crowd favorite is Superstitions, choreographed by award-winning and highly sought-after choreographer Jennifer Archibald. Known for her unique style of movement that blends the precision and technicality of classical ballet with contemporary dance styles like hip-hop, Archibald’s work challenges the viewer’s perception of ballet. This innovative piece is accompanied by an original score from local musician Cristina Spinei. 

Concluding the series April 2 through 4, 2021, Attitude Part II will feature Seasons, choreographed by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling and set to the timeless music of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons recomposed by Max Richter. Embodying elegance, this beloved ballet offers a fresh and uplifting view on the elements of classical ballet.

“Amidst these challenging times, we’ve been honored to continue to make Nashville Ballet performances and programming available to the community in new and innovative ways,” said Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. “Much like the unique arts and culture scene of Nashville, Attitude offers a little something for everyone and is rooted in local talent. While experiencing these fresh and popular pieces, we hope that patrons will be reminded of what makes our community so distinctively creative.” 

Under continued consultation with a team of trusted medical advisors, close collaboration with the Metro Nashville Public Health Department, and in accordance with guidelines from the CDC and Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville Ballet has instituted numerous policies to ensure that rehearsals and filming for Attitude Part I and Part II are completed in the safest way possible.  These include weekly COVID-19 tests, daily temperature and symptom checks, a mandatory mask requirement at all times while in the facility, daily rapid tests for dancers actively filming without a mask, enhanced filtration measures to upgrade the existing HVAC system, social distancing, cleanings, hand sanitizing, and more. Nashville Ballet has also instituted assigned pods during all rehearsals.

Tickets for Attitude Part I and Attitude Part II are available now and can be purchased here. Please note, you must purchase tickets for both performances to receive both links.  

About Nashville Ballet

Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries, and public elementary, middle, and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 and up. To learn more about Nashville Ballet, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

 

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission, and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional, and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Nashville Ballet To Premiere Critically Acclaimed Story Of A Streetcar Named Desire

By on October 7, 2019 in Press Releases

First-ever U.S. company performs iconic work from Tennessee Williams Nov. 1-3

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Sept. 25, 2019) – Nashville Ballet is excited to bring world-renowned Choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and London-based Director Nancy Meckler’s beguiling performance of A Streetcar Named Desire to the heart of the South in November 2019.

For the first time ever, Tennessee Williams’ legendary tale will be performed by a United States-based ballet company on one of the South’s premier stages. Considered Williams’ greatest work, A Streetcar Named Desire dramatizes the life of Blanche DuBois, an aging Southern belle who is forced to leave her aristocratic life and flee to a dilapidated New Orleans tenement after facing a series of tragic losses.

“This ballet represents the perseverance of women who have felt unheard,” said Meckler. “People often assume that female-led performances are fairytales; however, A Streetcar Named Desire is a fictional representation of the challenging reality female artists face in making their voices heard. I hope it will show aspiring artists, particularly choreographers, that women have the right to come out of the shadows and find success – even in what used to be a male-dominated industry.”

For the second time this year, Nashville Ballet will bring yet another boundary-pushing performance to Polk Theater. This adaptation is unique as the story will unfold through the singular perspective of Blanche DuBois. With Lopez Ochoa’s masterful choreography, audiences can expect a new interpretation of Williams’ work; one that humanizes the timeless tragedies of societal expectation and victimization, both of which still ring true for women today.

“Transforming this work into a ballet takes Williams’ story to places it has never been before,” said Lopez Ochoa. “By choreographing the narrative, we were able to tell a story of debauchery, heartbreak and strength from an entirely new perspective – a perspective that finally brings Blanche DuBois’ character into the light.” 

Similar to Lucy Negro Redux – Artistic Director Paul Vasterling’s time-bending performance of William Shakespeare’s love life – A Streetcar Named Desire brings topics of social justice to the forefront of the ballet world. Returning to Williams’ Southern roots, the story remains one of his most performed plays and has inspired many adaptations in other forms, including a critically acclaimed film that was released in 1951.

Nashville Ballet Company Artist Julia Eisen will take on the title role of Blanche DuBois. A veteran of the company, Eisen has spent the past nine years working under Vasterling’s direction.

“It is a privilege for our company to perform this work as it exemplifies the unwavering strength of female performers,” said Vasterling. “Once again, I am honored to work with a team of such powerful women, and I have no doubt that the caliber of Annabelle’s choreography will inspire Julia to give a performance that deeply resonates with audiences of all backgrounds.”    

A Streetcar Named Desire will premiere in Nashville at TPAC’s Polk Theater Friday, Nov. 1, through Sunday, Nov. 3. For more information on tickets and scheduling, please visit nashvilleballet.com/streetcar.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70. To learn more about the Nashville Ballet, please visit nashvilleballet.com.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Ben Folds & Nashville Ballet Reunite In April

By on March 12, 2019 in In The Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – From alt-rock to orchestra, Ben Folds’ musical career is nothing short of impressive making Nashville Ballet pleased to join him back on stage with the triumphant homecoming of Artistic Director Paul Vasterling’s The Ben Folds Project: Concerto at TPAC’s Jackson Hall, April 26-28.

Folds will join Nashville Ballet’s company on stage for three performances in which Vasterling’s masterful choreography is set to a 21-minute, three-movement piano concerto composed by Folds and commissioned by Nashville Ballet. Since premiering in 2014, Nashville Ballet has taken The Ben Folds Project to Washington, D.C. for the company’s Kennedy Center debut in 2017 and to the Chautauqua Institution in 2018; Folds has performed the concerto numerous times with major symphony orchestras across the country. This performance will mark the first time Nashville Ballet and Folds reunite to bring the unique work back to Music City.

Folds joins Nashville Ballet in April as part of the organization’s Modern Masters series highlighting the evolution and scope of ballet. The works selected for this series illustrate the ways in which the artform has transformed in the 20th and 21st centuries by showcasing works from neoclassical and contemporary choreographers that have helped to challenge and expand ballet’s boundaries through big ideas and intriguing collaborations. The Ben Folds Project is accompanied by three additional masterworks – Duo Concertant, The Lottery and Bloom.

In Duo Concertant, George Balanchine celebrates the Stravinsky piece to which the work is set in a surprising way. In the first movement, the dancers join the musicians simply to listen. As the next three movements are played, an animated dance ensues followed by the final movement in which the stage is darkened and the couple dance in individual circles of light resulting in a mesmerizing finale.

Well-received upon its debut during Paul Vasterling’s 20th Anniversary Gala Performance in December, the central pas of Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s Bloom returns to captivate yet again. The work, set on Ballet Manila, was Lopez Ochoa’s first for an Asian dance company. As a result, Lopez Ochoa uses movements and gestures reflective of Asian culture within the choreography. Inspired by a Balinese ritual, Bloom depicts a floral offering in which the male dancer represents gratitude and the female dancer represents the flower.

Val Caniparoli’s The Lottery makes its Nashville premiere during the program. Based on the short story by Shirley Jackson, Caniparoli’s choreography tells the thrilling tale of a dystopian society on the day of its annual lottery. Unfortunately, this is one lottery no one wants to win – the drawing will determine one townsperson to stone to death as a sacrifice. Captivated audiences wait on edge as the story unfolds leading to an actual lottery live on stage to determine the ballet’s final soloist. This theatrical retelling of a literary great challenges artists and excites viewers in a performance that will never be the same twice.

Tickets to see Ben Folds with Nashville Ballet are on sale now and can be purchased at the TPAC box office in downtown Nashville, by phone at (615) 782-4040 or at www.nashvilleballet.com. Susan Underwood Physical Therapy is the presenting sponsor for this production. Hotel Indigo is a supporting sponsor and the Nashville Scene is a media sponsor.

The Lottery is based on Shirley Jackson’s “The Lottery,” and is presented by special arrangement with the children of Shirley Jackson and literary media.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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JUST ANNOUNCED: Nashville Ballet’s 2019-2020 Season

By on March 4, 2019 in In The Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nashville Ballet is pleased to announce its 2019-2020 season. With a collection of new works and poignant classics, this season raises a mirror to society in an exploration of perceptions, standards and stereotypes. Through thought-provoking, entertaining programming, the 2019-2020 season promises to captivate, educate and spark meaningful conversations.

“As in years past, this season illustrates the diversity of our community — we program to address the many facets of the individuals within our audience and Nashville as a whole,” said Nashville Ballet Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. “Art exists in order to help us see ourselves and others more fully, building empathy and understanding between us. That’s the driving force behind everything we do at Nashville Ballet, and this year we are particularly focused on our audiences being able to see and reflect themselves in the works that we perform.”

Season highlights include the return of the iconic Shakespearean tragedy, Romeo & Juliet, as well as Nashville premieres of Christopher Bruce’s Rolling Stones-inspired ballet Rooster and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s A Streetcar Named Desire, the latter of which Nashville Ballet will be the first American company to perform. Also noteworthy is the ballet’s annual Attitude production – this season the popular series will feature four new pieces focused on gender identity and sexuality. Several fan favorites and heartwarming classics round out the season’s sensational repertory.

Nashville Ballet’s 2019-2020 season tickets go on sale to the general public on March 4 and can be purchased at www.nashvilleballet.com or by calling (615) 297-2966 x710. Tickets to individual performances go on sale July 1.

Nashville Ballet’s 2019-2020 season will include:

Romeo & Juliet
September 20-22, 2019

TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Choreography and direction by Paul Vasterling

Fight direction and choreography by Tim Klotz

Music by Sergei Prokofiev

Live music performed by the Nashville Symphony

William Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers return to the stage to open Nashville Ballet’s season. The most iconic love story ever told, Romeo & Juliet sweeps audiences away in a whirlwind of forbidden passion and swoon-worthy romance. Featuring action-packed fight scenes and authentic period costumes, this timeless and theatrical production delivers audiences to the streets of fair Verona as the Bard’s famous tragedy unfolds.

Peter & the Wolf

October 11-13, 2019

Nashville Ballet

Choreography by Paul Vasterling

Music by Sergei Prokofiev

Imaginative, engaging and educational – this family-friendly production transports audiences into the pages of a life-size storybook as they embark on an unforgettable adventure with Peter and his fun-loving animal friends.

A Streetcar Named Desire

November 1-3, 2019

TPAC’s Polk Theater

Choreography by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa

Direction and dramaturgy by Nancy Meckler

Music by Peter Salem

Nashville Ballet brings an award-winning production stateside. Sultry and seductive, the balletic adaptation of this Tennessee Williams classic brings aging Southern belle Blanche DuBois’s devastating demise centerstage in a beguiling performance meant to mesmerize.

 

Nashville’s Nutcracker

December 7-23, 2019

TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Concept, story treatment and choreography by Paul Vasterling

Music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Live music performed by the Nashville Symphony

Usher in the most wonderful time of the year with Music City’s favorite holiday tradition – Nashville’s Nutcracker returns to delight both the young and young-at-heart. Join Clara and her magical friends on a journey through a spectacular dreamland.

“A joyous celebration from start to finish, Nashville’s Nutcracker captures all the wonder of the holiday season. Don’t miss it!” – Amy Stumpfl, Tennessean (2017)

Attitude: Other Voices

February 14-16, 2020

TPAC’s Polk Theater

Choreography by Jennifer Archibald, Carlos Pons Guerra, Erin Kouwe and Matthew Neenan

Music composed and performed by Louis York and Cristina Spinei

A collection of choreographers known for pushing the envelope explore gender identity and stereotypes in a series of groundbreaking new works. These artists take ballet beyond the boundary of what is traditionally expected as they reflect on what it means to be a man or woman, how gender affects one’s existence and more.

Family Day at the Ballet

March 29, 2020

Nashville Ballet

Carnival of the Animals choreography by Paul Vasterling

Music by Camille Saint-Saëns

A festival of fun – this year’s annual Family Day at the Ballet celebrates all that Nashville Ballet has to offer in one delightful day; enjoy movement activities, games, arts and crafts and a performance of cherished children’s ballet, Carnival of the Animals.

Modern Masters

April 24-26, 2020

TPAC’s Jackson Hall

Seasons choreography by Paul Vasterling

Music: Antonio Vivaldi’s Four Seasons recomposed by Max Richter

Live music performed by the Nashville Symphony

After the Rain choreography by Christopher Wheeldon

Music by Arvo Pärt

Live music performed by the Nashville Symphony

Rooster choreography by Christopher Bruce

Music by the Rolling Stones

A little bit ballet, a little bit rock ‘n’ roll – Christopher Bruce’s Rooster brings a haughty edge and rock star rebellion to the ballet with eight exhilarating numbers set to the iconic music of the Rolling Stones. This buffet of artistry also boasts works by world-renowned choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director Paul Vasterling.

Emergence

May 14-17, 2020

Nashville Ballet

Emergence is back to deliver new works only hours in the making from up-and-coming, innovative artists. Get a front row seat to the creative process with this intimate and inventive series.

“Emergence exudes artistic expression and individuality.” – Cillea Houghton, Broadway World (2017)

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 55,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Nashville’s Nutcracker Returns December 1-23

By on November 23, 2018 in In The Press

Mouse King and Nutcracker photo by Karyn Photography

Presented by Nashville Ballet, and sponsored in part by PNC Bank, Nashville’s Nutcracker returns to delight audiences both young and young-at-heart. Music City’s favorite holiday tradition will take the stage Dec. 1-23, 2018 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall.

Nashville Ballet premiered Nashville’s Nutcracker in 2008 with a unique concept weaving the city’s glittering past with the awe-inspiring wonder of the classic tale. In its 11th season on stage, Nashville’s Nutcracker has cemented itself in the hearts of numerous patrons and young artists as a treasured holiday tradition.

Clara’s enchanted journey begins at the 1897 Centennial Exposition in Nashville. Along with her Uncle Drosselmeyer, Clara meets a colorful cast of characters from faraway lands. When she receives a magical wooden Nutcracker from Drosselmeyer on Christmas Eve, the toy comes to life to lead her on an unforgettable adventure. Clara encounters a captivating collection of fascinating friends including the delightful characters she met at the Exposition. When the curtain closes on Clara asleep on her couch, the audience is left to decide if it was real or not.

Mollie Sansone and Brett Sjoblom as Dew Drop Fairy and Nutcracker Prince photo by Karyn Photography

“Nashville’s Nutcracker was designed to be seen over and over again because you find little details in it each time that make it exciting and fresh,” Nashville Ballet’s Artistic Director Paul Vasterling said. “The story itself is magical as it is, but the addition of Nashville’s iconic characters and landmarks into the production guarantee that you’ll discover something new every year.”

Vasterling’s original concept and choreography are complemented by an entirely locally produced production including the dancers, production crew, costumers and musicians. Along with 53 members of Nashville Ballet’s professional company and second company, Nashville’s Nutcracker includes a youth cast of a record-breaking 298 young dancers from School of Nashville Ballet and the community at large accompanied by 60 musicians from the Nashville Symphony.

Advanced Sports Medicine and RJ Young are supporting sponsors for Nashville’s Nutcracker. Tickets start at $40 and can be purchased in person at the TPAC box office in downtown Nashville, by phone at (615) 782-4040 or at www.nashvilleballet.com. A complete performance schedule and more information can be found at www.nashvilleballet.com/nashvilles-nutcracker.

About Nashville Ballet

Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Nashville Ballet And League Of Women Voters Premiere New Work

By on October 24, 2018 in In The Press

Inspired by Tennessee’s vital role in the ratification of the 19th Amendment, Nashville Ballet will debut Gina Patterson’s 72 Steps at Harpeth Hall School’s Frances Bond Davis Theatre on Saturday, November 10 at 2 p.m. The performance is free and open to the public.

 

Commissioned by the League of Women Voters (LWV) of Nashville and their Perfect 36 Supporters, 72 Steps explores themes of basic human rights, civic responsibility and the ongoing battle for a more equitable society through the lens of the suffrage movement.

 

“We always knew the League of Women Voters should be involved in telling the story of the passage of the 19th Amendment. After all, it was our own Carrie Chapman Catt who created the League in February of 1920 before traveling to Nashville in July to secure the vote,” LWV of Nashville project co-chairs Cindee Gold and Debby Gould explained. “After careful consideration, we chose ballet. For many of us, as young girls, ballet was one of the few acceptable outlets we had to express our athleticism and creativity. Dancers are beautiful, but it is their strength that is crucial to their success, as so it is with all women.”

 

“Given that Tennessee was the 36th and final vote needed for the ratification of the 19th Amendment, the League of Women Voters [of Nashville] felt it was important to mark the upcoming 100th anniversary in a special way,” LWV of Nashville project co-chairs Cindee Gold and Debby Gould explained. “Our choice to commission a ballet was very intentional. Historically, our society has discouraged girls from participating in sports; girls were meant to be delicate, but in dance we could be strong – we could flex our muscles and assert ourselves with a confidence not allowed outside the studio.”

 

Complementary to state curriculum for middle school history classes, Nashville Ballet’s second company, NB2, will transport classrooms and audiences to the early 1900s as the fight for women’s rights is heating up. Inspired by history, Patterson’s work is a contemporary retelling of the slow flame of the suffrage movement as friends and families grapple with the terms of one of the most divisive issues of the time building to a fiery denouement in the days surrounding the Tennessee legislature’s history making vote and the famed letter said to have persuaded young House Representative Harry Burn to support the proposed amendment.

 

Depicting a fight that began with the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 and spanned over 72 years, Patterson’s work draws parallels from the past to present in an effort to transcend time. During the creative process, Patterson called NB2 artists to reflect on the civic issues that concern them in modern society. They followed this by writing letters similar to that which Rep. Burns’s mother wrote convincing him to cast that momentous vote; Patterson used these letters and conversations to shape the ballet’s narrative.

 

“72 Steps endeavors to engage young people on the topic of inequality and illuminate the long and continuing march towards parity. It challenges audiences to contemplate their own beliefs around women’s voting rights and how this extends to broader conversations of equality, whether relating to gender or other discriminations in the name of power and control,” Patterson said. “I hope this ballet will inspire viewers to think about their rights when the time comes to go to the polls, and how they might use their own voices to make a difference in everyday life.”

A feminine tour de force, 72 Steps celebrates Nashville’s female creatives. Local composer Jordan Hamlin wrote the galvanizing score that drives Patterson’s narrative and designer Jocelyn Melechinsky created the work’s striking costumes merging historical influence with allusions to the future.

 

After its premiere, 72 Steps will enter a limited pilot engagement in Metro Nashville Public Schools as part of Nashville Ballet’s Community Engagement repertoire. This special premiere is free and open to the public; limited seating is available. To learn more about 72 Steps, or reserve seating, visit www.nashvilleballet.com/72-steps.

 

About Harpeth Hall School
The Harpeth Hall School is an independent college-preparatory school for girls and young women in grades 5-12 in Nashville, Tennessee. Harpeth Hall educates young women to think critically, to lead confidently, and to live honorably.

About League of Women Voters of Nashville
The League of Women Voters of Nashville is a non-partisan volunteer organization promoting the informed and active participating of citizens in government. Through public programs and educational outreach, the League gives current and future citizens the information they need to be part of the democratic process.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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SEVEN DEADLY SINS Returns To Haunt This Halloween

By on October 3, 2018 in In The Press

Nashville Ballet’s popular contemporary collaboration with singer-songwriter collective Ten Out of Tenn returns to TPAC’s Polk Theater October 18-20, 2018 to usher in the Halloween season. An original score is played live while the ballet’s company artists perform a captivating narrative alongside them.

An instant hit after premiering in 2017, Nashville Ballet Resident Choreographer Christopher Stuart’s beguiling production returns to take viewers on a chilling journey through purgatory. As the protagonist encounters each of the cardinal sins, a live performance by the highly acclaimed artists of Ten Out of Tenn – Butterfly Boucher, Trent Dabbs, Gabe Dixon, Katie Herzig, Jeremy Lister, Erin McCarley and k.s. Rhoads – transports the audience to a realm where only the most sinister survive. Will the protagonist find a way to defeat his inner demons or will the temptations he encounters lead to depravity?

“This collaboration is a snapshot of what is happening now in the local arts scene,” Rhoads said. “Ours is a city that celebrates and thrives on creativity, and this show is such a beautiful culmination of that. There will be dance, theatre, songwriting, musicianship and storytelling all in one. That’s really what Ten Out of Tenn was striving for when it began 12 years ago – to highlight the magic that is happening in this little town in the middle of Tennessee.”

Originating in 2005, Ten Out of Tenn is a collective of musicians ranging from Americana to folk to rock to pop that was created to highlight Nashville’s diverse music scene beyond the country genre for which it’s traditionally known. The musicians (each with their own successful solo careers and fan bases) team up to produce compilation albums and tour as one band, taking turns both in the spotlight and collaborating all together on stage to display the breadth of musical talent Nashville has to offer in one evening.

During this unique Ten Out of Tenn show, the artists will perform original music inspired by Stuart’s concept. Rhoads grouped the artists together to each create a song inspired by one of the seven vices explored in the ballet. Ten Out of Tenn musicians will perform the music along with a string quartet. The Seven Deadly Sins set list features:

• Pride (Can’t Bury My Weakness) by Butterfly Boucher
• Greed (This Isn’t What I Got Into It For) by Trent Dabbs and k.s. Rhoads
• Envy (If Every Wish Came True) by Katie Herzig, Amy Stroup and k.s. Rhoads
• Sloth (I Feel It Too Much) by Erin McCarley and k.s. Rhoads
• Gluttony (I Can’t Get Enough of Everything) by Jeremy Lister, Gabe Dixon and k.s. Rhoads
• Lust (All That I Want) by Matthew Perryman Jones and k.s. Rhoads
• Wrath (Like Thunder) by k.s. Rhoads

Choreographer Jennifer Archibald’s Superstitions opens the provocative evening. Born out of Nashville Ballet’s experimental series Emergence in 2017, and expanded upon since, Archibald’s work blends the precision, technicality and athleticism of tradition with contemporary dance styles in a look at the harrowing legends of the supernatural that have captivated countless generations. Superstitions continues to illuminate the vast wealth of talent in Music City with an innovative score by Nashvillebased composer Cristina Spinei.

Nashville Ballet is kicking off this fascinating production with Infernal Indulgence held October 10 from 6-10 p.m. at Bar Sovereign, 514 5th Ave. S, Nashville, TN 37203. For one night only, Bar Sovereign guests can enjoy a storied menu developed by Josh Whitfield. Just as the ballet’s protagonist encounters each sin, seven carefully crafted cocktails give patrons a taste of each vice before they come to life on stage at TPAC. The event is first come, first served with no cover charge. Cocktails may also be purchased in halfservings giving customers the opportunity to imbibe all the lascivious libations. Guests will also have the opportunity to interact with the musicians, dancers and choreographer behind this extraordinary work.

Purchase tickets for Seven Deadly Sins with Superstitions in person at the TPAC box office in downtown Nashville, by phone at (615) 782-4040 or at www.nashvilleballet.com. The presenting sponsor for this production is Climb Nashville. A complete performance schedule and more information can be found at www.nashvilleballet.com/seven-deadly-sins.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Nashville Ballet Opens Season With Tchaikovsky Classic

By on September 7, 2018 in In The Press

Opening the organization’s 20th season under Paul Vasterling’s artistic direction, Nashville Ballet will present what’s commonly considered one of the greatest classical ballets of all time, Swan Lake, with three performances September 21-23, 2018 at TPAC’s Jackson Hall.

 

Drawing upon Russian folklore, Swan Lake transports audiences to a realm of lush romance to tell the tale of the beautiful, but cursed, maiden Odette. Forced to spend her days as a swan upon a desolate lake, Odette may only take her true form as a human in the darkest hours of the night. Without a vow of true love to break the wicked curse, Odette will never be free. This fan favorite features the challenging and highly coveted, dual role of Odette and Odile, the evil temptress crucial in determining the heroine’s fate.

Christopher Stuart and Kayla Rowser in Swan Lake in 2014 photo by Karyn Photography

His first ballet composed, Tchaikovsky began arranging Swan Lake in 1875 and premiered it in 1877. Twenty years after its inception, choreographers Lev Ivanov and Marius Petipa’s 1895 revival staged the version that serves as the foundation for the quintessential ballet.

 

Last presented by Nashville Ballet in 2014, Swan Lake features choreographic updates from Artistic Director Paul Vasterling and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Nashville Symphony. With striking new costumes for Odette and the illustrious swan corps, Nashville Ballet offers a dazzling fresh take on this timeless masterpiece.

 

“The beauty, power and technical complexity of Swan Lake make it one of the most important ballets, both for dancers and the audience to experience,” Vasterling said. “Petipa and Ivanov’s choreography set a standard for grace and athleticism still inherent to ballet today; the new tutus for this production will highlight that standard and the strength of our Nashville Ballet artists on stage.”

 

Get swept away by the magic of Swan Lake by purchasing tickets in person at the TPAC box office in downtown Nashville, by phone at (615) 782-4040 or at www.nashvilleballet.com. The presenting sponsor for Swan Lake is Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund; supporting sponsors are Benefits, Inc. and Tennessee Orthopedic Alliance. A complete performance schedule and more information can be found at www.nashvilleballet.com/swan-lake.

 

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Nashville Ballet To Hold Community-Wide Youth Cast Auditions

By on July 27, 2018 in In The Press

Nashville Ballet invites community youth ages 8+ to open auditions for the 2018-2019 season production of Nashville’s Nutcracker. Auditions will be held on Sundays, Aug. 19, Aug. 26 and Sept. 9, 2018 at Nashville Ballet’s Sylvan Park facility, 3630 Redmon St., Nashville.

An annual Christmastime production, Nashville’s Nutcracker features approximately 300 youth cast members from the School of Nashville Ballet and the surrounding community. Roles range from darling Clara to the adorable bear cavalry and everything in between. Dance experience is not required. Children must be eight years old by Dec. 31, 2018 to audition; children ages 12+ must be School of Nashville Ballet students.

At the audition, children will learn simple sequences of steps from various age appropriate youth cast roles. Nashville Ballet’s artistic staff will evaluate auditionees on their ability to learn and execute these steps. The overall environment for auditions is light and fun for all.

“Our Nashville’s Nutcracker youth cast is an incredible way to get the whole family in the spirit of the holidays. We really focus on making this an easy and enjoyable process for cast members, their parents and other relatives. For many families it has become one of their most beloved holiday traditions,” Director of Artistic Operations Sharyn Mahoney said. “Whether your child is already passionate about performing or is entirely new to the stage, this is an excellent opportunity for developing confidence and encouraging a love for the arts.”

Pre-registration for auditions will open Friday, Aug. 3; interested individuals can register online atwww.nashvilleballet.com/youthcast at that time. Walk-ups are also welcome the day of an audition. Children who audition will be notified of whether or not they receive a role on Wednesday, Sept. 19. Mandatory rehearsals begin on Oct. 20. A $10 non-refundable audition fee and 4”x 6” full-body photograph are required. Girls should audition in a solid color leotard and pink tights; boys should wear a t-shirt and shorts. Ballet slippers are preferred, but not required; children who do not own ballet slippers should wear socks or another style of dance shoe. It is only necessary to audition once; children in each audition will receive equal consideration.

Nashville’s Nutcracker weaves the awe-inspiring wonder of the classic tale with Music City’s glittering past as young Clara and her magical friends journey through a spectacular dreamland. This is the 11th consecutive season Artistic Director Paul Vasterling’s enchanting production will take over TPAC in December. For more information on youth cast details for this enchanting production, visit www.nashvilleballet.com.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students age 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metro Arts, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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Ballet and the Man In Black Collide At Ballet Ball 2018

By on February 22, 2018 in In The Press

Photo credit: Heather Thorne

Ballet goes country (and a little rock ‘n’ roll) when Nashville Ballet’s annual fundraising gala Ballet Ball pays homage to Johnny Cash through a collaboration with his son John Carter Cash and guest appearances by several internationally recognized artists at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center on Saturday, March 3.

The event, which raises funds to present educational dance programming to more than 30,000 underserved youth and families throughout Middle Tennessee each year, will feature a set list of songs written or popularized by Johnny Cash curated by John Carter Cash and performed by some of Cash’s friends and/or favorite artists. The star-studded lineup includes nine-time Grammy Award-winning songwriter and performer Sheryl Crow, CMA, BMI and ACM Award-winning country artist Ronnie Dunn (of the most successful country music duo of all time Brooks & Dunn), ACM and CMA Award-winning singer-songwriter Jamey Johnson, Native American Grammy Award-winning artist, songwriter and flutist Bill Miller, country music newcomer and YouTube mashup sensation Devin Dawson, John Carter Cash himself and his wife Ana Cristina Cash.

To celebrate the legacy of Johnny Cash, musical guests will share the stage with Nashville Ballet dancers who will perform excerpts of Under the Lights, a contemporary ballet choreographed by Christopher Stuart. Cash was also the collaborative partner behind Nashville Ballet’s production of this work, which debuted in 2014 and features some of Johnny Cash’s most iconic songs. Cash was no stranger to dance when Nashville Ballet approached him in 2013 to create a ballet set to his father’s music. He grew up attending ballet performances around the world with his mother while his father toured. “My mother always had a great respect for the art of ballet. I recall first attending the ballet as a boy while on tour in London. I am grateful and honored to be a part of the Nashville Ballet’s endeavors,” Cash said.

The gala performance celebrates the Cash legacy just weeks before Johnny Cash Forever Words the Music is released by Sony Legacy on April 6. The album is based off the 2016 book Forever Words: The Unknown Poems, a collection of his previously unpublished lyrics and poems. John Carter Cash offered those poems to contemporary musicians to complete and record. Featured musicians span across genres and include Kacey Musgraves, Chris Cornell and Brad Paisley.

Recognizing his artistic collaboration and entrusting Nashville Ballet to bring the “Johnny Cash ballet” to life, Cash will receive the third annual Synergy Award from Nashville Ballet, which honors musical artists who enable and promote the creative partnership between music and dance.

Ballet Ball 2018 is chaired by Mrs. Adrienne McRae and Mrs. Suzanne Smothers with Honorary Chair Mrs. Nancy Cheadle.

The evening features a menu by Kristen Winston Catering, selected wine pairings provided by Lipman Brothers and event design by Bruce Pittman Inc.

Tickets for Ballet Ball are by invitation only, but the general public is invited to purchase tickets to the Ballet Ball Late Party, which features cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and a seat at the gala performance. Late Party Co-Chairs Leigh and Brewer Adams, Rachel and JJ Ailor, Rachel and Justin Albright and Grace and Bradley French, have programmed an evening of dancing to the tunes of Bizz & Everyday People, who were recently named Indie R&B Group/Artist of the Year at the 2nd Annual Indie Ville TV Awards. Late Party tickets are $175.00 per person.

For more information about Ballet Ball or to purchase tickets to the Late Party, please visit Nashville Ballet’s website.

About John Carter Cash
John Carter Cash has been involved in music all his life. He is an accomplished and award-winning record producer, singer-songwriter and author. He is the only child from the marriage of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, and he carries on the family tradition of creativity and music. In 1999, he was co-producer for his mother’s album Press On, which went on to win the Grammy for Best Traditional Folk Album. He continued his studio work with his father, serving as Associate Producer under Rick Rubin for the Grammy- winning American Recordings series, including American III: Solitary Man and American IV: The Man Comes Around.

His extensive career in producing inspired music includes his mother’s album Wildwood Flower, Unbroken Circle: The Musical Heritage of the Carter Family (various artists), Marty Stuart’s Badlands, Joe Shaver’s Everybody’s Brother, and Loretta Lynn’s Full Circle. In all, John Carter Cash has received 5five Grammy Awards as producer, with a total of 12 nominations. He has produced hundreds of recordings for dozens of artists within the past twenty years, including Chris Cornell, Jamey Johnson, George Jones, Jewel, Brooks & Dunn, Elvis Costello, Vince Gill, Sheryl Crow, and Alison Krauss and Union Station. As he produces and listens to numerous genres of music, his own musical recordings and compositions are naturally across the board. Universal Music Group released John Carter Cash’s Bitter Harvest in 2003.   His 2010 album The Family Secret received many accolades, including a three-starred review in Rolling Stone. His upcoming album, We Must Believe in Magic, will be available in the spring of 2018.

About Nashville Ballet
Nashville Ballet is the largest professional ballet company in Tennessee. Nashville Ballet presents a varied repertoire of classical ballet and contemporary works by noted choreographers, including original works by Artistic Director & CEO Paul Vasterling. Nashville Ballet and the second company, NB2 (a pre-professional training company), provide more than 70,000 arts experiences to adults and children annually through season performances and its Community Engagement programming. Curriculum-based Community Engagement programs bring dance education to community centers, colleges, public libraries and public elementary, middle and high schools across the state. In addition, School of Nashville Ballet brings world-class dance instruction to students ages 2 to 70.

Nashville Ballet receives public funding from Metropolitan Nashville Arts Commission, Tennessee Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts. Contributions from local, regional and national institutional funders and community partners, as well as hundreds of generous individuals, provide ongoing support of Nashville Ballet’s mission-critical programs.

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