You're at a
WORLD PREMIERE event!
Patricia Barker, Artistic Director
april 28-30 & may 5-7
The Mind Behind the Madness
BRIAN ENOS
2017-2018 SEASON THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!
LUIS GRANÉ: THE KING OF VISUAL ART
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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Performing Arts + Community + Warner A BETTER PARTNERSHIP® By providing discerning and proactive legal counsel, we build a better partnership with clients.
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
WNJ.com
CONTENTS 4
A WORD FROM PATRICIA BARKER
4 STAFF 6
THANK YOU TO OUR WONDERFUL SEASON SPONSORS!
MEET THE DANCERS
12 2017-2018 SEASON 20 MEET BRIAN ENOS 26 DONOR LIST 33 MEET LUIS GRANÉ 38 EN POINTE
ON THE COVER
Alice In Wonderland is a world premiere event April 28-30 and May 5-7, 2017 at Peter Martin Wege Theatre. For tickets, call 616.454.4771 or visit ticketmaster.com or grballet. com today. Don’t be late for this very important date!
MEIJER-ROYCE CENTER FOR DANCE 341 ELL SWORTH SW, GR AND R APIDS, MI 49503 616.454.4771
grballet.com
info@grballet.com
Ballet Box O f fice hours Monday – Friday 9:0 0am -5:0 0 pm
BALDWIN FOUNDATION
DANIEL & PAMELLA DEVOS FOUNDATION
THE DICK & BETSY DEVOS FOUNDATION
THE DOUGLAS & MARIA DEVOS FOUNDATION
ROSEMARY & DAVID GOOD FAMILY FOUNDATION
PORTER FOUNDATION
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
HONORARY BOARD
Stephen B. Wert, President Anda Vizulis, Vice President Diane Mills, Secretary Michael P. Kling, Treasurer Patricia Pence Waring, Development Chair Christine Albertini Luis Avila Dana Baldwin Theresa DeVries Jeff Gurney Todd Hoppe Ian M. Hunter John Neinhuis Amy Norkus Giselle Saulmier Sholler Leah Voigt
Edith I. Blodgett † Jeff & Margaret Beusse Mrs. Betty Ford† Suzanne Geha Charles† & Stella Royce Ellen Satterlee Marilyn Titche Peter M. Wege† †
Deceased
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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A WORD FROM FROM PATRICIA Here we are at the end of another great season of dance. We have so enjoyed every moment on stage and we thank you for taking each and every step with us. Thank you dancers for your hard work, dedication, and joyfully memorable performances. It’s mind-boggling to look back at the beginning of the season and think of all we have presented. Serenade, Light Rain, and Company B; Romeo & Juliet in St. Louis; The Nutcracker; and MOVEMEDIA: World Premieres with three fantastic choreographers; and now the world premiere of Alice in Wonderland. So many fond memories and friends were made this season—ones to cherish a lifetime. I also thank the choreographers, stagers, and artists who help shape and inspire the talented individuals that make up Grand Rapids Ballet, and to all those who help support the work we present here and beyond our four walls. I want to bring your attention and my gratitude to our creative team for Alice: Brian Enos for choreographing Alice's journey down the rabbit hole into Wonderland, Luis Grane for his amazing visual art that brings alive a world full of amazement, Michael Auer for making it possible for Luis' art to come alive in our theatre, Katie Behrens for making the costume designs a reality, everyone backstage making an idea materialize, and again to the dancers for their continued trust and energy to all that we do.
PATRICIA BARKER Artistic Director Patricia is a former principal dancer with Pacific Northwest Ballet and is considered one of the world’s most gifted ballerinas. She stages works for the Balanchine Trust and was an artistic advisor for the Slovak National Ballet. Patricia also teaches and judges at international ballet competitions, serves on the board of several arts organizations, and has received numerous arts awards and civic recognitions.
The end of a season also brings new excitement. So as you enjoy your lazy summer days at the beach our studios will be busy with the hustle and bustle of creativity as we start to bring next season alive. Each season brings its challenges, joy, and accomplishments filled with amazing stories, choreographers, and dance. We could not be the valued arts organization we are today without your continued support. Think of season tickets today and don’t be late; it's just around the corner. See you next season!
GLENN DEL VECCHIO GRAND RAPIDS BALLET STAFF Artistic Director Patricia Barker Executive Director Glenn Del Vecchio Creative Director Michael Auer Development Director Mark Warner Marketing Director Michael Erickson Production Stage Manager Mellissa Slack Costume Shop Manager Katie Behrens Company/Facilities Manager John Ferraro Box Office Manager Kelly Herremans Guest Services Manager Errol Shewman Assistant to Artistic Director Claire Millard 4
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
School Principal Attila Mosolygo Curriculum Coordinator Mindy Mosolygo Administrator SarahJean Bos Faculty Lara Faucher, Jillian Gasper, Melissa Hudecz, Claire Millard, Amanda Sekelsky, Taryn Streasick, Kara Taylor Pianists Ryan Blok, Solee Clark, Kenneth Creager, Brendan Hollins, Idalmira Lopez, Mark Moran, Lonnie Ostrander Night Receptionists Mary Anne Carpenter, Madeline Harrington
Executive Director A results-oriented executive, Glenn approaches the leadership of a nonprofit arts organization by managing the intersections of artistic quality and best business practices, bringing his expertise in strategic planning, business development, large-scale event and concert management, and marketing together to create a consensus-oriented management approach. Glenn was raised in Philadelphia and attended Millersville University in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. He resides in East Grand Rapids with his wife Kirsten and two sons.
The
WIZARD
OZ of
Follow the yellow brick road
February 2018
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET JUNIOR COMPANY
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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2016-2017 SEASON DANCERS
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Laura McQueen Schultz
Dawnell Dyrja
Nick Schultz
Connie Flachs
Steven Houser
Yuka Oba
Cassidy Isaacson
Isaac Aoki
Demi Trezona
Caroline Wiley
Ednis Gomez
Christian Griggs-Drane
Micaelina Ritschl
Grace Haskins
Branden Rainers
Nigel Tau
Julia Turner
Matthew Wenckowski
Jack Lennon
Hannah Potter
Dillon Perry
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
2016-2017 SEASON DANCERS
Levi Teachout
Mari Beer
Ashley Conroy
Patrick Lennon
Rylie McHale
Adriana Wagenveld
Natasha Bryant
Clare Schellenberg
Lydia Slack
St. Cecilia Music Center PRESENTS
Fionia Staczek
Benjamin Waldvogel
Want to learn more about your favorite Grand Rapids Ballet dancers? Read their bios, find links to Instagram, and more at grballet.com/dancers. Or check out their bios hanging in the lobby, too.
the CHAMBER
MUSIC SOCIETY OF LINCOLN CENTER SERIES
2017-18 SEASON Another season of simply incredible performances await as St. Cecilia continues its partnership with the most influential chamber music organization in the world— The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center.
scmc-online.org
November 2, 2017 Beethoven, Penderecki & Mozart January 18, 2018 Dvorak & Brahms April 19, 2018 Mozart, Weber & Brahms
616.459.2224 Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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The Official Florist of the Grand Rapids Ballet
4665 Cascade Road • 616.956.6747 • www.kennedyfloral.com 8
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Putting your
RECOVERY center stage
Stop dancing. That’s what one doctor, then another, advised Aurora Lewis, who was forced to give up her role with a southeast Michigan dance company. Then she visited Mary Free Bed. Doctors pinpointed an elusive diagnosis and therapists treated her with new stretches and exercises. And once again, Aurora danced. AskForMary.com
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“You're entirely bonkers. But I'll tell you a secret. All the best people are.” -Alice in Wonderland
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
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2017-2018
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
As we near the end of our 46th season, we want to thank you for your unwavering support. We love seeing your smiling faces in the audience, knowing you’ve shared in our success and the art that continues to thrill and engage. You are treasured members of our family and we couldn’t do what we do without you. Now we’re excited to announce the 2017-2018 season, filled with contemporary and traditional works. Get ready for newly commissioned, family-friendly, diverse shows created especially for you by the best in local and global talent.
SEASON
And the best part? You don’t have to travel farther than Peter Martin Wege Theatre to see this world-class art. Enjoy!
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a
CHRISTMAS carol December 22-23, 2017 Peter Martin Wege Theatre
FROM
RUSSIA H
WIT LOVE
October 6-8 & 13, 2017 eatre Peter Martin Wege Th Any dance enthusiast test knows many of the grea ted na ballets in history origi rtain. from behind the Iron Cu rigue, Filled with mystery, int this beauty, and romance, ly performance will loving in rta cu t lve pull back our ve with selections from Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Swan Giselle, Esmeralda, re. Don Quixote, and mo er This is a ballet lov ’s dream come true!
THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 1-3 & 8-10, 2017
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Can’t get enough of the holidays? Join us for Charles Dickens’ beloved tale of redemption, reflection, rebirth, and the true spirit of Christmas. All your favorites will be there: Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas past, present, and future will make this performance the perfect way to bring a touch of faith to your holiday celebrations.
New th is ye the fam ilyacr, add on lassic to your seas o n s u b scripti It’s not the holi days withouton. The Nutcracker !
The world is a complicated canvas of varying views, realities, and expect atio
ns.
The next two installments in our innovative contemporary dance series, MOVEM EDIA, will explore and celebrate these beautiful differences. Experience thought-provoking pan el discussions and powerful commu nity outreach bookended by compleme ntary world-premiere works by some of today’s most important and influen tial choreographers. Sponsored by
STEELCASE FOUNDATION
MOVEMEDIA:
DIVERSITY
February 9-11 (MOVEMEDIA I) & March 23-25, 2018 (MOVEMEDIA II) Peter Martin Wege Theatre
HAPPY PRINCE the
& other Wilde tales
May 4-6 & 11-12, 2018 at Peter Martin Wege Theatre
never Often provocative, always ironic, world’s the of one boring, Oscar Wilde was tigh most colorful and popular playwr did you poets of the late 19th century. But n’s dre chil d know he also wrote belove py Hap stories like The Selfish Giant, The Rose? Prince, and The Nightingale & The and Our choreographer-in-residence ny Princess Grace award-winner, Pen er eth tog ve wea Saunders, will wistfully to let bal these tales into a family-friendly the world remind us all what it’s like to see eyes. through the innocence of a child’s
Add-ons to your season ticket subscription include The Nutcracker at DeVos Performance Hall and an amazing new Junior Company production of The Wizard of Oz at Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Tickets on sale June 19, 2017. For more information, about this exciting new season, call 616.454.4771 x10 and ask for Kelly. Or email her at kellyh@grballet.com today! Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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En Pointe ON POINT
Whether it’s the ballet or integrated marketing communications, it’s all about the performance.
At Pageworks, our total conceptto-execution approach delivers extraordinary ideas and superior results in print, digital, and more. Pageworks. Crafted for quality. Designed for impact.
www.page.works info@page.works 616.454.9224 2801 Oak Industrial Drive NE Grand Rapids, MI 49505 16
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
2017–2018 October 13 & 14 | DeVos Performance Hall
RIGOLETTO
Italian grand opera at its finest
50TH January 15 | Fountain Street Church
I DREAM
A new rhythm and blues opera
ANNIVERSARY May 4 & 5 | DeVos Performance Hall
THE MARRIAGE OF FIGARO
The quintessential comic opera
SEASON
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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The preferred primary care provider for the Grand Rapids Ballet. To schedule a tour, visit our website at cherryhealth.org/donate. 18
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
that art can make us see the world differently. Inspiring. Thought Provoking. PNC is proud to sponsor the Grand Rapids Ballet, bringing arts and education together for young audiences and performers. Because we know that the arts inspire young minds.
To learn how we can help with your financial well-being, stop in any PNC Branch or visit us at pnc.com
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: The Nutcracker
Š2016 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved. PNC Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET Bank, National Association. Member FDIC
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INSIDE THE MIND BEHIND THE MADNESS By Connie Flachs
B
rian Enos stands in the front of the studio, dressed head to toe in black. His focused gaze is directed on the three girls learning Alice, waltzing across the center of the room. “Good, good,” he declares softly. Approaching one of them, he asks her to stretch her leg farther in the arabesque pique and turn her pirouette more quickly. He demonstrates with fluid agility and she follows his lead, moving farther and with more dynamic range after incorporating these corrections. Enos himself is a study in contrasts. Soft-spoken but direct. Kind but demanding. Even his succinctly styled mohawk hair is the opposite of what one would expect from a ballet choreographer. In essence, this makes him the perfect choice to choreograph Grand Rapids Ballet’s new production of the classic story Alice in Wonderland, premiering at the end of April.
“I have to collect the best artistic team for each new full-length we produce,” Artistic Director Patricia Barker explains. “Brian’s style made me think of him immediately for a story like Alice.” Enos’ choreographic style draws on classical ballet technique, but the steps you will see on stage are a far cry from Swan Lake. The Mad Hatter and March Hare tango, the Cheshire Cat slinks jazzily across the floor, the White Rabbit spins neurotically with ferocious abandon. A new score arranged by Brendan Vincent keeps with this fresh and modern feel. The story is taken out of the Victorian age and into a more abstract, timeless place. While the new production has elements of the Disney version and is assuredly family-friendly, the ballet will be modernized and complex. Enos began his conception of the production by reading the original Lewis Carroll story. Despite the story’s original reception as “sheer nonsense,” Carroll’s puzzling world has persevered over time, appealing to both children and adults alike. Enos determined the ballet would follow the book more closely than the movie, incorporating some of the darker elements of the story and keeping with his sensibilities as a person. Alice in Wonderland is the sixth original full-length work Barker has commissioned in her time as Grand Rapids Ballet’s artistic director. “When I’m planning a new work,” she explains, “I look for four things: It must stimulate the dancers. It must be financially viable. The production has to be approachable, fun, and appropriate for all ages. Finally, a new full-length provides a platform to make a contribution to the dance industry.”
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
BRIAN ENOS
Alice, with Enos’ creative choreography, the treasured plot, deeper themes that appeal to all ages, and visual artist Luis Grané’s design aesthetic, seems to meet these criteria easily.
I prompt her to share her favorite quote.
“The story transcends generations; it connects young and old,” Barker states, her expression earnest as she discloses, “It was one of my favorite stories as a girl and one that I still love now.”
A poignant choice for a woman who appears to always know exactly where she wants to go and what she hopes to accomplish. But that’s Alice in Wonderland for you—one paradox after another.
“If you don’t know where you’re going, any road will get you there,” she recites.
Originally from San Francisco, Brian Enos began studying ballet at 16. After his training at the Maria Vegh Ballet Centre and Houston Ballet Academy, he joined Houston Ballet at 18. He went on to dance for the acclaimed Hubbard Street Dance Chicago for eight years, before retiring from the stage in 2010. He is currently the artistic director of The Big Muddy Dance Company in St. Louis.
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Fox Motors POPS
APR 28-30 DeVos Hall
Bob Bernhardt Conductor
With
SGT. PEPPER'S
a L i tt
The Beatles legend 50TH ANNIVERSARY marches onward
le Help
nds • Yesterday
from My Frie
• Yellow Submarine • and m
ore!
Series Sponsor: Concert Sponsor:
Guest Artist Sponsor:
Students
Tickets start at
Students
Tickets start at
$5 $18
MAY 19-20 DeVos Hall
Larry Rachleff Conductor
Richard and Helen DeVos CLASSICAL
BEETHOVEN’S
“EROICA” DEBUSSY Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun CANTELOUBE Chants d'Auvergne BEETHOVEN Symphony No. 3, Eroica
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
CALL NOW 616.454.9451 x 4
$5 $18
GRSymphony.org
TICKETS ON SALE NOW
sc4a.org or 269.857.2399
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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SUMMER INTENSIVE 2017
E V E R Y T H I N G O U R S H A S I S
H E R E
Ballet June 26-July 28
I T S
Contemporary July 31-August 18
W I T H P L A C E Y O U
Call 616.454.4771 or visit grballet.com for more information today!
#steelcase @GRapidsBallet
L E T ’S
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C E L E B R AT E
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017 SCS_4.75x9.875_BalletNewsletter.indd 1
TO G E T H E R
3/28/17 2:07 PM
TRUST Building wealth begins with building trust Generations of West Michigan families have entrusted Norris, PernÊ & French to grow and preserve their wealth. Let us prove we’re the right choice to manage your nest egg.
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Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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THANK YOU TO OUR WONDERFUL DONORS! ROND DE JAMBE ($10,000+) Amway Beusse & Porter Family Foundation David Cutler Daniel & Pamella DeVos Foundation The Dick & Betsy DeVos Foundation The Douglas & Maria DeVos Foundation Edith Blodgett Legacy Fund of The Brookby Foundation Frey Foundation Rosemary & David Good Family Foundation Keller Foundation Meijer, Inc. Michigan Council for Arts & Cultural Affairs J. Lee & Susan B. Murphy James & Mary Nelson New York Choreographic Institute PNC Bank Steelcase Foundation Wege Foundation DÉGAGÉ ($5,000+) Baldwin Foundation Chemical Bank Peter C. & Emajean Cook Foundation Nicholle & Jeff Costello Douglas DeBoer Memorial Fund at the Grand Rapids Community Foundation Elizabeth Tinney Donley Foster Swift Collins & Smith Wes & Judy Harpold Kendall College of Art & Design Tim & Juliet Kraal Patrick McConeghy Norris Perné & French Parkinson’s Assoc. of West Michigan, Inc. Plante Moran PLLC Marilyn Titche Varnum LLP TENDU ($2,500+) Michelle & Kevin Bassett Patti & Karl Betz Grand Valley State University Herman Miller Mary Loupee John Nienhuis & Jerry Nardin James H. Schindler Karlis & Anda Vizulis Mary A. Yurko & Mark Gurney PLIÉ ($1,000+) Christine & Peter Albertini Don & Ellen Arlinsky Armbrecht & Wierenga Orthodontics, PLC Luis & Amanda Avila Jeff & Margaret Beusse Donald & Erma Bruggink Crowe Horwath Mimi Cummings Andrea Jeane Darling Jeff & Theresa DeVries Dickinson Wright 26
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Darcy J. Dye Joan Dykstra David & Nancy Field John Frey Fusion Financial Group Laurie Griffith Jeff Gurney Jack & Marcia Hall Todd & Robin Hoppe J.C. Huizenga John Hunting The Korff Foundation Michael & Melissa Lojek Shawn & Kathryn McCabe Kate & John McGarry Al & Pam McQueen Miller Johnson Jon & Carol Muth Valerie B. Nelson Lynn & John O’Donnell Sean Patterson Till & Bernice Peters John Petrovich & Lorraine Miles John Rudolf Family Foundation Giselle & Peter Sholler The Tholl Pearson Group Karl & Joanna Van Harn Jim Shafer & Leah Voigt Pat & Bill Waring Stephen & Jane Wert Lynn & Stuart White Melike Winkworth JETÉ ($500+) Tom & Melissa Aaberg Robert Beasecker & Erika King Mark & Doreen Bolhuis Thomas & Alexis Boyden The Brooks Family Linda Campbell Thompson Dr. Jack D. & Karen F. Cichy Steffany Dunker & Jay Harsevoort Steve Frykholm In Memory of Norman E. Horne Paul Howland Win & Kyle Irwin Bill & Judy Johnson Rob & Kelly Knecht Michael & Michele Kopinski Shannon Lookabill Arend & Nancy Lubbers McLean Family Foundation Daniel & Sabrasue Miller Thomas Moore & Jan Winters Patricia J. Muth Patricia Nevala Scott Rasmussen Robert Oracz & Dave Schmidt Lee Strodtman Brenda S. Teegardin Luis & Gretchen Tomatis Trinitas Classical Association John & Gwen Varineau Patricia Warner
John H. Wert Kirk & Jennifer Wiley Susan Wold SAUTÉ ($250+) Shelly & Rob Batterbee Marcella Beck Frederick A. Bogaert Glen & Betsy Borre LeeAnn Clay John & Penelope Collins Cynthia Conway Doug Coulter & Pamela Hoppe Jennifer & John Daniels Brooke Estevez Farmers Insurance Group John & Kristine Fox Shelly Garone Tom Genson & Mark Olson Marjorie B. Goebel Frances & Joe Hall Joseph Hall Anne & Matthew Haskins Rod & Amy Hathaway Gerry Hotchkiss Jo Kidd Gregory Kusnick Brian & Susan Lennon Diane Mills Kathleen Muir Laidlaw Kathleen & Ken Nelson Dr. Mark & Lorraine Newberry The Leonard & Eileen Newman Fund of the Grand Rapids Community Foundation Dr. Gil Padula Corporate Portfolio Peter & Carroll Perez Henry Pestka Charitable Fund David H. Smith Mary B. Staten McCormick Jim & Karen Stokes Matthew & Kara Taylor Darryl & Jane Varda RELEVÉ ($100+) Mary Appelt William Armitage Janelle Berger Frances J. Boyden Roy Brown Greg Carnevale & Diane Mahon Mark Chancey & Thomas Owens Joe & Debbie Chapa Amy L. Charles Kay Courtney Elizabeth J. Crosby Linda & Jonathon Damon Katie Dykstra John & Louise Edison Kost & Candy Elisevich Jean Enright Revs. Maurice & Sara Fetty Barbara O. Fisk
Mary L. Forman Mike & Gig Gamaggio Alberta A. Garbaccio Dianne Garone Clarice Geels Harvey & Phyllis Gendler Dan & Judi Giddings Holly & Steve Goulet Linda Griggs Harry & Lynn Gubbins Richard Hagan & Terry West Catherine B. Haney Marilyn E. Heiss Todd Helle & Diane McElfish Helle David & Susan Hoekema Stephen & Martha Holmgren Robert L. & Judith S. Hooker Foundation Laurie Iciek Shellie Jeffries & Tony Kroes Curtis & Constance Jones JPMorgan Chase Foundation Douglas & Patricia Klein Sally Kotani & David Armbrecht Melissa Lichtenwalter John R. Martino Henry Matthews & Timothy Chester Twink Frey Patrick & Tamara Miller Kim S. Mitchell Rose Mary Moegling Julie Otterbein Denise Overbeek Don & Mary Permoda Michael & Wendy Petrella Ms. Martha Porter Carol Randel Lori Reineke Milt & Barbara Rohwer Stasia Savage James & Bonnie Scarlett Joe & Tricia Schetz Robert Schwartz Showchex, Inc. Pamela Smitter & Christopher Iverson Catherine Southwick Nancy Yagiela & Peter Spring Lillian Tetzlaff Thomas & Amy Trezona John & Cheryl Tully Peter M. Turner Ghayas & Joy Uddin Jeffrey & Magdalena VanWingen Villegas Group James & Mary Kay Wemple Mary White Scott & Rebekah Wierenga Joan Wilson In Memory of Joseph Aaron Wojczynski Kirk & Cindy Wright Eileen M. Wurzer Thomas A. Wysocki Mike & Mary Yoak
Joshua & Linda Jo Carron Kock-Seng & Joan K. Chee Richard & Nancy Court Spectrum Health Physician Relations Team Michael & Nancy Dodge Tom & Lois Dykstra Sydney Edlund Nancy M. Efting Noel Jens Forsberg & Martha Escobar Paula Gaylord Sue R. Gifford Rick & Barbara Gossett Robert Heidenreich Todd & Michelle Henke Gail & Alan Hering Bari Johnson Suzanne K. Jones Judith Kemph Mike & Gig Gamaggio with Cosmo & Gaia Harold & Jessica Kuizema Dr. Geoffrey Lam, Dr. Robyn Sackeyfio & Sophie Lam Camilla Martin Michael & Brigitte Merk Katherine Marie Northrup Sheila O’Rourke Jeff & Suzanne Pope Mary Ruzicka-Savage Mark Siegrist Mary Lou Smith Rick & Mary VandenBerg Emily Walhout
Dr. & Mrs. James K. Watkins Virginia Weesies In Memory of Bob Wepman Karen Williams Brent & Sherrie Willson Ann J. Wuerthele Marvin Yamaguchi Gift dates 1/1/2016-3/28/17 Grand Rapids Ballet is honored to receive gifts in recognition of friends & loved ones. In honor of Dianne Garone, longstanding patron (Shelly Garone) In Memory of Joseph Aaron Wojczynski (James A. Wojczynski) In Memory of Norman E. Horne (Mrs. Norman E. Horne) In Honor of Greg Kwiatkowski (Benjamin Petry) In Honor of Margy Jones (Twink Frey) In Memory of Stephen Dunker (Brooke Estevez) In Memory of Nancy Philips (Dianne Garone) On behalf of Inese Blanchard, a dancer and special education teacher, in honor of her 80th birthday. With love from her grandchildren. (Ellie Galas)
FRIEND ($50+) Dana & Mary Nell Baldwin Anne M. Benson Sarah Brancheau Carilon & Jim Carr Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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Be a Producer! Join your fellow patrons and make a gift today to the Spring 2017 Appeal. Your generous, tax-deductible gift will help bring Luis Grané, Brian Enos, and all of our fabulous dancers to the Peter Martin Wege Theatre for the World Premiere of Alice in Wonderland. PLUS, THE BEUSSE & PORTER FAMILY FOUNDATION HAS GRACIOUSLY AGREED TO MATCH ALL GIFTS DOLLAR-FORDOLLAR UP TO $21,000 BEFORE JUNE 30, 2017!
You love dance, so invest today and help us create the finest art and dance in Grand Rapids and West Michigan.
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Let’s see more of each other socially.
facebook.com/grballet twitter.com/grapidsballet instagram.com/grapidsballet youtube.com/grballetvids #grballet
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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.
{Encore!} The CPAs and consultants of Plante Moran are proud to support the Grand Rapids Ballet.
A higher return on experience.
plantemoran.com 30
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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PT360 is the preferred provider of physical therapy for Grand Rapids Ballet
Dave Asselin, DPT Pictured: Dave working on GRB dancer Dawnell Dryja
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330 Fuller Ave NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503 GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
pt360.net | (616) 456-0360
LUIS GRANÉ
MEET THE VISUAL ARTIST BRINGING WONDERLAND TO LIFE
Born in Argentina, Luis Grané studied medicine and worked in a human anatomy laboratory at Buenos Aires University before studying fine arts and graphic design. Following his true passion, Grané moved first to London where he worked in advertising for almost four years, and then to Mexico, where he worked in visual arts and advertising and became strongly influenced by Mesoamerican Art. Grané then moved to Toronto, where he won the Dick Friesen/Zlatko Grigic Award for Excellence in Animation at Sheridan College in 1996, and was recruited by DreamWorks Animation SKG. This meant relocating to Los Angeles, where he worked as an animator, visual effects artist, and character designer for DreamWorks, Pixar, Disney, Laika, Sony Pictures, Aardman, and Warner Brothers. His credits include films as diverse as The Prince of Egypt, Spirit, Spiderman 2 (Academy Award Winner for Best Visual Effects), The Matrix, The Aviator, Ratatouille (Academy Award Winner for Best Animated Feature), Hotel Transylvania, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, and The Boxtrolls. He has also collaborated with numerous renowned directors such as Sam Raimi and Richard Linklater. While pursuing his career in Hollywood, Grané attended Peter Liashkov’s painting workshops for two years and studied painting with Bonita Helmer at Otis College of Art. Grané's original work as an independent artist has been featured in group exhibits at the Pozzi Gallery in Buenos Aires, the Cartoon Museum in London, and the Enisen Gallery in Los Angeles, and worldwide as part of the Sketchtravel Book art project. His work was also selected as the cover of the Totoro Forest Project book, an artistic venture that gathered prominent artists from around the world to save a forest in Japan. Grané currently works in his studio in the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles and recently published his first solo book,“Sad Stories.” Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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Passion. It starts with an education focused entirely on your growth — as a thinker, a problem-solver, and as a person. By the time you graduate, you will have knowledge, confidence, and a clear path moving forward. More importantly, you’ll be part of a community that’s prepared to give, to create,to make a difference. That’s the Laker Effect.
GVSU Senior Dance Recital
gvsu.edu 36
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Mini Tales & Bolero May 19-21, 2017
grballet.com | 616.454.4771
Don’t be
late
for a very important date! Varnum is proud to support
Grand Rapids Ballet
Legal Experience In Your Corner.
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Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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THANK YOU, EN POINTE VOLUNTEERS! "En Pointe is the volunteer group for Grand Rapids Ballet and we couldn’t do what we do without them. We appreciate you!" —Errol Shewman, Guest Services Manager
Mary Ackert Jeff, Dr. Anita, and Anneke Avery Betsy Bakeman Mary Nell Baldwin Phyllis Ball Richard and Kathy Benoit Cheryl Bentley Donna and Roger Betten Adrianne Braun Thomas and Barbara Brege Roy Brown Julie Bukrey Timothy Bunchman & Norma Maxvold Robyn Carlson Pam Clark P. Sean, Laura, and Erica Coombs Kay Courtney Bill and Heidi Dani Daniels Family Robert Diamond and Sheila Kinney Lizann Donley Dr. Matthew M. and Mattie Douglas Joan Dykstra Rosalind Ebrom Patricia & Carl Falkenstern Greg, Shari, & Alli Farr Jamal Fisher Gig Kruit, Mike, Gaia, & Cosmo Gamaggio Roselda Gardner Robin & David Gast 38
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Karen Gilmore Stephanie Hughes Barbara Groat David & Karen Hadsall Marcia & Jack Hall Kathleen Hansen Abby Harrison Lawrence B. & Rosie Haywood Carol & Greg Heath Janelle Hill Robert, Kelly, & Hannah Jacobsma Susan Jennelle Ronald & Sandra Jones Sally & Hope Jonker Sharon Karam Judith Kiebler Ray King Jr. Yvonne Lamberson Brian & Susan Lennon Family Melissa Lojek Lopez-Keranen Family Carla Ludwig Laura Martin Kris, Joni, Elizabeth, Emily, & Erin Mauren Kathryn & Shawn McCabe Sarah McCabe Yvette McClain Jackie McGill Robert Mieras Carole Mueller-Brumbaugh Cindy Napolitan Wayne & Brigitte Nelson Raeanne Niemer Suzanne & Tom Nowak Gary & Karen Paul Tamara Posthuma Mary Quiroz Robert “RJ” Regan Kent & Lisa Rudlaff Family Kim, Chris, Clare, Seth, & Paul Schellenberg
Nancy Schenck David Schmidt & Robert Oracz Jim Shafer Pamela & Paul Schweitzer Giselle, Peter, Becca & Chloe Sholler Carol Sinke Paul, Amy, & Arianna Skentzos Paul & Barbara Slack William C. Spagnuolo Mary Sumners Corsair Switzerlord Yuichi & Hiroko Takagi Elaine Teat Mark & Heidi TenElshof Randy & Joanne Terrian Al & Carole Valk Leslie VanBecker & Ed Clifford Colleen Mahon, Douglas, & Aidan Van Doren Karen Verway Urs & Martha Waldvogel Joyce Walker DeAnna Westerbeek Merikay Wierenga Jim & Connie Winter-Troutwine Wolbert Family
To learn more about the benefits of membership or to join, visit grballet.com or contact Errol Shewman at guestservices@grballet.com or call 616.454.4771 x12.
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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A Magical Comedy By Barbara Pease Weber An arthritic genie encounters the residents of a New Jersey senior’s apartment complex. What could go wrong?
SUMMER BALLET CAMP
ith productions weal. heatrical p quality tat are universal in ap g n i t n prese h themes th Jewis
GRCC’s Spectrum Theater - 160 Fountain NE May 18, 20, 25 & 27th @ 8 p.m. May 21 & 28 @ 3 p.m. Tickets: 616-234-3946 or Online: jtgr.org
ORGANIC ESPRESSO • COFFEE • TEA
Featuring Coffee Roasted by:
Free
WI-FI
CALL 616.454.4771 FOR MORE INFO 49503 40
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
1111 GODFREY AVE SW 616 • 308 • 7753 grandrapidscoffee.com
Michigan Dance Council is your one-stop resource for experiencing, supporting, celebrating, and participating in Michigan’s vibrant dance community.
Invent Art™ proudly supporting the grAnd rApids bAllet, protecting Artists And inventors since 1952.
LEARN MORE TODAY! michigandance.org 303.365.0632 616.949.9610 www.priceheneveld.com
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE ARTS AND THE COMMUNITY
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Great dancers are not great because of their technique, they are great because of their passion. ~ Martha Graham, American Dancer
Thank you
to all the passionate individuals that make up the Grand Rapids Ballet.
Providing comprehensive legal counsel for families, businesses, organizations, municipalities, and individuals. FOSTERSWIFT.COM
Call: 616.726.2200
Grand Rapids • Lansing • Detroit • Southfield • Holland • St. Joseph Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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TUESDAYS 12-12:45PM | FREE! Call 616.454.4771 for more information.
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
JOin us for our 2017-2018 season!
MAIN StAge productions
SUMMER repertory theatre intensive
Season Sponsors
Beusse & Porter Family Foundation
Learn more about our 2017-18 SEASON at www.grct.org Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
45
THE ADDAMS FAMILY MAY 4 - 20
BRIGHTON BEACH MEMOIRS JUNE 1 - 17
THE LAST OF THE DRAGONS JUNE 28 - JULY 1
A CHORUS LINE JULY 13 - 29
TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD AUGUST 10 - 26
THE ADDAMS FAMILY | MAY 4 - 20
IT SHOULDA BEEN YOU
SEPTEMBER 7 - 23
UP NEXT...
LADIES NIGHT
THE MUSIC OF LEGENDARY DIVAS | MAY 8
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’
COOL CALI VIBES PAST AND PRESENT | MAY 15
BUY TICKETS
46 CIRCLETHEATRE.ORG | 616 456 6656 | 1703 ROBINSON ROAD SE GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
ANNOUNCING THE 17
17 NOV 21 -26, 20
DEC 12 , 2017
TM © 1986 CMOL
OCT 18 - NOV 5, 20
2017 - 2018 SEASON
JAN 18-20, 2018
FEB 13-18, 2018
MAR 6-11 , 2018
JU N 5 -10, 20
18 WINNER OF 4 TONY AWARD S BEST MUS IC AL REVI VA L INCLUDIN
SUNDAY MIRROR
G
Laura Michelle
Kelly in Rodgers
STARRING
Jose Llana and
Photo: Joan Marcus
© THE BODYGUARD (UK) LTD. Designed by DEWYNTERS
& Hammerstein’s
The King and
I. Photo by Matthew
Murphy.
– NY1
“I DOUBT I’L PRODUCTIONL SEE A BETTER IN MY LIFETI ME” -THE WALL STRE ET JOURNAL
FOR MORE INFORMATION,
BroadwayGrandRapids.com • 616-235-6285 Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
47
You’re only an échappé, cabriole and a jeté away.
Pastry Chef Lisa Miller’s sweet creativity and her use of locally sourced ingredients are what make desserts at our global-inspired restaurant six.one.six the perfect ending to a terrific meal. Better still, be it before or after the ballet, you’re only a hop, skip and a jump away.
ilovethejw.com 48
six.one.six Restaurant and Mixology Lounge 235 Louis Street NW, Grand Rapids 616.242.1448 GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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Great Performances On Your Radio Every Day!
WBLU 88.9 WBLV 90.3
GRAND RAPIDS MUSKEGON classical . jazz . npr
(Listen on the web at www.bluelake.org/radio) A Division of Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp
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GRAND RAPIDS BALLET: Spring/Summer 2017
Proud Supporter of the Grand Rapids Ballet
Spring/Summer 2017: GRAND RAPIDS BALLET
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. d l o s t e g r e v e n Graceful living
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www.porterhills.org • 616.949.4975
GRAND GRANDRAPIDS RAPIDSBALLET: BALLET:Spring/Summer Fall Newsletter2017