‘Polar Express’ Author and ‘Wicked’ Designer join with Choreographer Caniparoli and Director Barker to create new ‘Nutcracker’ for Grand Rapids Ballet

By Steve Sucato When it comes to Christmas holiday season entertainment in the U.S., The Nutcracker ballet ranks high on the list. The magical tale of a young girl who dreams of a heroic handsome prince that whisks her off to a land of sweets is a favorite of children and adults alike.  So when former Pacific Northwest Ballet star Patricia Barker took over as artistic … Continue reading ‘Polar Express’ Author and ‘Wicked’ Designer join with Choreographer Caniparoli and Director Barker to create new ‘Nutcracker’ for Grand Rapids Ballet

Grand Rapids Ballet’s Contemporary ‘Midsummer’ Ballet a Glowing Success

Grand Rapids Ballet Company A Midsummer Night’s Dream Peter Martin Wege Theatre Grand Rapids, MI May 9-18, 2014 Reviewed by Steve Sucato In keeping with Grand Rapids Ballet Company’s penchant for contemporary reinterpretations of story ballet classics that has included updated productions of Romeo & Juliet and Swan Lake, the world premiere of choreographer Olivier Wevers’ A Midsummer Night’s Dream May 9 at Grand Rapids’ Peter Martin … Continue reading Grand Rapids Ballet’s Contemporary ‘Midsummer’ Ballet a Glowing Success

Grand Rapids Ballet’s ‘MoveMedia’ a Gem

Grand Rapids Ballet Company – MoveMedia Program 1 Peter Martin Wege Theatre Grand Rapids, MI March 28-30, 2014 Reviewed by Steve Sucato It’s a unique experience for a dance writer to witness the blossoming of a dance troupe; to see its dancers and repertory evolve over time to higher levels of artistic excellence. That is what has unfolded at Grand Rapids Ballet Company since the … Continue reading Grand Rapids Ballet’s ‘MoveMedia’ a Gem