This article originally appeared in the Culture section of Bloomberg News on September 19, 2008. Sept. 19 (Bloomberg) -- The most rewarding number in Wednesday's opening night of New York City Center's annual Fall for Dance marathon came last: a dozen of the National Ballet of Canada's men magnificently performing Jiri Kylian's ``Soldiers' Mass.'' The dance was composed in 1980; its message, of the men's fear, courage, patriotism, bonding and hope so certain to be defeated, couldn't be more timely. Beautiful, too, though not so … [Read more...]
All-Male Hula for $10, Tap Kick Off N.Y. Dance Season: Preview
September 19, 2008 by
This article originally appeared in the Culture section of Bloomberg News on September 16, 2008. Two San Francisco Ballet dancers perform during a routine. Photographer: Erik Tomasson/New York City Center via Bloomberg News Sept. 16 (Bloomberg) -- Ten dollars for any seat in the house at New York City Center? That admission fee to the Fall for Dance Festival, Sept. 17 to 27, may be the biggest bargain of the dance season about to launch. Now in its fifth year, the series operates on the something-for-everyone principle. Each of its 10 … [Read more...]
Perfume: Personal Indulgences No. 10
September 14, 2008 by 11 Comments
No elegance is possible without perfume. -- Gabrielle ("Coco") Chanel When I arrive at my friend Renée's house in Paris, she is knitting a small fleecy white garment. She embraces me, holds it up, and says, "It's for your grandchild-to-be." I'd written her that my first grand was on its way. "You will be a wonderful grandmother," she declares. Frankly, I see no reason why I shouldn't be. I adore children, always have. Playing and adventuring with them is one of my top three delights, and they respond to me in kind. "And your … [Read more...]
Walking on Air
September 3, 2008 by
This essay describes the celebrated funambulist Philippe Petit's "punishment" for his clandestine walk between the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center on August 7, 1974. The essay was first published by Dance magazine in November, 1974. It is reprinted here as a complement to my latest article for Voice of Dance, Sky High, which discusses James Marsh's recently released film chronicling the original event, Man on Wire. To read Sky High, click here. We're walking to the park in the dead heat of the August night. In front of the path to the … [Read more...]
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