Photo by Richard Hurd
School of Madison Ballet’s New Leadership Attracts Leading National Artists
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 16, 2022
School of Madison Ballet’s New Leadership Attracts Leading National Artists
Summer Programs include Free Performance at MYArts and Master Classes
Madison, WI – The School of Madison Ballet (SMB) is poised for a busy summer with nationally-celebrated teachers of classical and contemporary ballet joining the ranks of the school’s existing faculty. Under the leadership of newly appointed Director, Jacob Ashley Brooks EL, SMB has attracted representatives of some of the nation’s leading institutions to share their expertise with local students.
The summer programming begins with New Phases, a show of current SMB students dancing original choreography created by emerging local choreographers at MYArts’ Starlight Theatre. The occasion marks the first public performance of Madison Ballet at the new youth arts center, where it teaches classes regularly. Pairing young dancers with Madison Ballet’s professional company members, the program will feature the new works Dance of Joy by Lily Edgar, L’asisance by Lauren Thompson, and Friends Dance by Sarah Minton.
“New Phases will demonstrate our students’ countless hours of hard work. Audiences will get a small glimpse of these young artists’ dedication as they work to get to the professional level.”, said Jacob Ashley Brooks EL.
As local faculty prepares the premiere of their students’ new works, SMB is working to welcome choreographers and teachers who are leaders in their field. Visiting teachers include Eddy Bray, Jennifer Goodman, Shannon Quirk, Kim Sagami, Sarah Wolf, and Teanna Zarro. From former professional dancers with the Joffrey Ballet to Alvin Ailey School-trained instructors, Directors of Chicago institutions to beloved Madison Ballet company members, this impressive list of guest faculty bring experience, artistry and connections to SMB’s summer intensives. These programs will run from July 18 to August 19, 2022 and are open to students ages 12 and older.
“By bringing these brilliant artists to our community, the School of Madison Ballet is elevating the caliber of training offered to our students and expanding their world of opportunities,” said Jonathan Solari, CEO of Madison Ballet. “This is just the beginning of a new approach to our training that will continue to raise Madison Ballet’s profile both regionally & nationally.”
Enrollment is still open for summer intensives and classes for all ages at Madison Ballet (6734 Odana Road). New Phases will be performed at MYArts (1055 E Mifflin St.) on Sunday, June 5th at 2pm. Complimentary tickets may be reserved at www.madisonballet.org/new-phases
For 40 years, Madison Ballet has been an integral part of the vibrant Dane County arts community. Full-scale productions of inspiring traditional ballets, innovative contemporary performances, and the timeless holiday tradition of “The Nutcracker” reach more than 13,000 people each year. The School of Madison Ballet empowers students of all ages and skill levels with the poise, confidence, discipline, and fundamental life skills intrinsic to the study of dance. Outreach programming, presented in partnership with dozens of local school and community groups, enriches thousands of young people’s lives by introducing them to the joy of dance.
Contact: Jonathan Solari, CEO
Phone: 608-278-7990
Email: jonathan@madisonballet.org
##