Maybe inside every actor, there’s a director, or inside every waiter, there’s a chef. Who knows for sure, but after three years of Innovations, we can say that inside many a Ballet West dancer there is a choreographer.
When Adam Sklute he took over as artistic director, he knew how vital it is for every artist to have a mode of expression, and how equally important it is for dancers to have choreographers create work for their unique skills and abilities.
This challenge lies at the heart of the experimental Innovations, an evening of original works created by Ballet West dancers for Ballet West dancers. Taking the stage at the intimate Rose Wagner Center, these young choreographers’ neoclassic dances jump out of the box of traditional repertory pieces: music that ranges from classical overtures to Claude Debussy to more modern Matt McBane, or a movement language that is, at times, fresh and funky.
Principal artist Christopher Ruud, choreographer for the inaugural event—will begin the evening with “Trapped,” which looks at breaking free of cycles of obedience. Following will be three premieres of short works: Soloist Thomas Mattingly’s “Fall Into Loving Arms,” demi-soloist Christopher Anderson’s “Intonations” and artist Emily Adams’ “Regarding Us.” Rounding out the evening is up-and-coming New York City choreographer Avichai Scher with “White Noise,” depicting two couples fighting for expression in a congested world. The lure of Innovations is not only seeing original works, but also seeing works that have something original to say.
Ballet West: Innovations @ Rose Wagner Center, 138 W. Broadway, 801-355-2787, May 13-14, 18-21, 7:30 p.m., Saturday matinee, 2 p.m., $45. ArtTix.org, BalletWest.org
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