This article originally appeared in the Culture section of Bloomberg News on October 6, 2006. Oct. 6 (Bloomberg) -- Glimpsed on a DVD sampler from Philadanco: five gorgeous, superbly athletic, pastel-gowned women dance out their complaints about the guys giving them heart trouble. A minute later, a crew that deserves high-risk pay invades the stage with wild leaps and lifts aiming for, and miraculously achieving, soft, safe landings. That first clip comes from Carmen de Lavallade's ``Love Songs,'' to Billie Holiday recordings. The other is of … [Read more...]

I've been busy lately and haven't kept up with my mail. Only this a.m. did I look at the New York City Ballet's brochure for its upcoming season at the New York State Theater, November 24 - February 25. I do not understand what's going on. Or maybe I understand all too well. Let's start at the top. The first performance, on November 21, is labeled "Opening Night Benefit." But it's not considered an official part of the season (see the dates given above). It's also the only repertory program until January 3. Time was, a full week of … [Read more...]