by Hallie Hayes
Soloist Abby McDowell rehearses for Beatles - The Ballet (photo Ashley Concannon)
In an original ballet conceived by Columbia City Ballet’s artistic director, William Starrett, one has the opportunity to relive, or to experience the ‘60s for the first time through the inspiration of one of the most famous bands of the century: The Beatles.
While the opportunity to experience the beautiful classics from Columbia City Ballet is often presented, Beatles The Ballet embraces a new experience, following The Beatles’ careers and impacting the audience through the social awareness that The Beatles presented decades ago.
The ballet features 40 classics from the band, all producing short form pieces which allows viewers to experience ballet and this prolific journey in a new way. The Beatles create dialogue through their music- producing a cultural impact and still today, topics that they covered in the ‘60s make appearances in our conversations; this inspired Starrett.
Under the artistic direction of Starrett himself, 12 guest choreographers from all over the country have been brought in to help him with creating this production, including Sherry Horton, Carolina Lewis Jones, Racheal Leonard, James Atkinson and Jerry Opdenaker. All 32 company members active with Columbia City Ballet will play a role in this production. Starrett has also brought in two performers from Nashville, TN, who have toured internationally with a The Beatles impersonation group called Rain.
The Beatles, generations later, still play a substantial role on young listeners and Starrett acknowledges this, making this a show one for a wide-ranged audience.
The ‘60s loved The Beatles. The ‘80s loved The Beatles. Today, listeners love The Beatles.
In a recent interview with ABC News, Starrett explains the impact that putting the journey of this prolific band into a ballet can have: “Through the dance, the music can have more intensity and you can really see some of the lyrics.”
You’ve heard the lyrics. You’ve sang the lyrics. Come see the lyrics. Come experience the lyrics.
Before the ballet, a ‘60s themed VIP reception will be held where Starrett will discuss the creation of the ballet. Enjoy an open bar and travel back in time, as your best 60s attire is highly encouraged.
Beatles The Ballet will take place on Saturday, February 2nd at Kroger Center for the Arts with two performance: 3:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at www.krogercenterforthearts.com.