George Balanchine loved America. This Russian émigré choreographer, who founded the New York City Ballet with Lincoln Kirstein, delighted in everything from the songs of George Gershwin to the city's ''Don't Walk'' signs. When asked why he why he would choreograph to the marches of John Phillip Sousa, as he did for "Stars and Stripes," Balanchine replied, "because he makes me happy." On January 25, 1981, just five days after the American hostages were released from Iran, Balanchine added "Stars and Stripes" to program, as a special encore. It remains one of my favorite ballets. It is in this country that Balanchine was able to make his great contributions to dance. It pains me to think that there might be another Balanchine waiting to get here so his or her gifts can find their full expression on our shores. Here are highlights from Stars & Stripes.
Post a comment
Your Information
(Name and email address are required. Email address will not be displayed with the comment.)
Comments