The Orlando Ballet aims to name the champion of the age-old power struggle between the sexes with Battle of the Sexes, an exciting contemporary performance March 19-21. The performance will present provocative, bold and sensual movements as female and male dancers face off to determine who really is the fairer gender, while showcasing the company’s edgier side.
Battle of the Sexes will consist of 14 pieces, allowing the dancers to tease, tantalize and compete as they showcase their athleticism, prowess and most of all, their ability to astound their audience. True to its contemporary origins, music will range from the pulsating 60’s hit War; to the funky tune Warm Leatherette, made famous by singer Grace Jones; to Milonga sounds, a Latin rhythmic style similar to tango music.
Highlights include regarded dancer Katia Garza in a stunning performance of a sensual and intense Argentine tango with her husband, guest dancer Israel Rodriguez. Rodriguez, a celebrated former Orlando Ballet dancer, will also perform a solo, entitled That’s Life. The performance will also include a duet from the spicy opera, Carmen, which reflects a day in the life of the famed title character.
The concept and choreography of Battle of the Sexes truly demonstrate just how much of a cultural hidden gem both The Orlando Ballet and its artistic director, Robert Hill, are. Hill possesses a unique ability as both choreographer and artistic director, a rare and coveted skill in the industry. His genius is displayed as he presents a mix of classical works with unexpected contemporary works which have attracted new audiences. He has masterfully blended graceful ballet movements with intriguing and enjoyable overtones. He has surprised and delighted audiences with his creative ability to showcase the company’s edgier side.
This performance is the result of the inspiration Hill received from his original, ultra-contemporary, all-male piece Give It Up, which he presented for the 35th anniversary performance, which drew rave reviews from the audience. It was a surprising, contemporary piece where the male dancers, all clad in black, showcased their dance acumen with an infusion of ballet with everything from break-dancing to pop-locking! Battle of the Sexes takes a similar surprising twist, with everything from bare-chested males to finger snapping and gentle slapping.
“This performance truly represents The Orlando Ballet’s new vision – to capture new audiences, appeal to a broader spectrum and showcase the many unique facets of ballet,” said Hill. “We aim to present an exciting yet provocative show which will intrigue ballet patrons – from season ticket holders to first time audience members. Some have described it as ‘bringing sexy back,’ I say, it’s proving sexy is already here – in dance!”
The company returns to the classical when they present Le Corsaire in April.
For tickets or more information on the Orlando Ballet’s 2009-2010 season, call 407.426.1739 or visit orlandoballet.org.
Established in 1974, Orlando Ballet is the professional resident ballet company in the Greater Orlando area. The organization employs a full-time company of national and international dancers, performing both full-length classical ballets and repertoire programs. Via its mission, Orlando Ballet seeks to entertain, educate, and enrich the cultural growth of Florida through the highest quality of dance.
Contacts:
Treva Marshall, TJM Communications, Inc.
(407) 977-5004; [email protected]
Dipika Joshi, TJM Communications, Inc.
(407) 977-5004; [email protected]
