In Arts notes: William & Mary’s Orchesis Modern Dance Co. offers a collection of original dances in March, a choreoritual of word, song and movement in April; Atlantic Chamber Ensemble offers virtual performance centered in dealing with struggles of the pandemic; and the Richmond Ballet has two series upcoming.
By COLLEEN CURRAN Richmond TimesâDispatch
When he was 15, Sam Merkle moved from Richmond to New York City to attend the prestigious School of American Ballet.
Now, he is one of the primary dancers featured on Disney+âs new docu-series âOn Pointe,â produced by Ron Howard.
âOn Pointeâ follows young people pursuing their dreams of becoming ballet dancers. The series shows younger students as they rehearse and perform in âThe Nutcrackerâ and older students like Sam as they rigorously train for a professional ballet career, ideally in the New York City Ballet. But there are only a few slots and the competition is fierce.
By COLLEEN CURRAN
Richmond Times-Dispatch
When he was 15, Sam Merkle moved from Richmond to New York City to attend the prestigious School of American Ballet.
Now, he is one of the primary dancers featured on Disney+âs new docu-series âOn Pointe,â produced by Ron Howard.
âOn Pointeâ follows young people pursuing their dreams of becoming ballet dancers. The series shows younger students as they rehearse and perform in âThe Nutcrackerâ and older students like Sam as they rigorously train for a professional ballet career, ideally in the New York City Ballet. But there are only a few slots and the competition is fierce.
The Nutcracker in person. However, the company is offering the community an opportunity to watch a previously recorded performance from home! You ll be able to view the show, which also features our very own Richmond Symphony, by
streaming online between December 11th and December 26th. A variety of virtual packages and exclusive in-person experiences (with characters from the ballet) are also available, offering additional ways to bring the magic of
The Nutcracker home.
Resident Conductor Erin Freeman and company dancer Matthew Frain joined me to discuss their work on the show and these exciting opportunities to keep the spirit alive this year.