Seeing double twice as nice

 

 
 
 
 
Dancers Raelynn Heppell and Davin Luce performing in Double Variations.
 

Dancers Raelynn Heppell and Davin Luce performing in Double Variations.

Photograph by: Glenna Tumbull photo , for the TIMES

allet Kelowna brings its signature repertoire and talented dancers to the Chilliwack Cultural Centre on Nov. 24. Under the artistic direction of David LaHay, Ballet Kelowna performs a dynamic new performance, Double Variations. Celebrating its 10th anniversary

with this diverse program, Ballet Kelowna performs a mosaic of classical and contemporary dances with power and grace. A program of contrasts and collaborations, Double Variations is a combination

of good versus evil with Swan Lake's White and Black Swan pas de deux, which was originally conceived from Russian folk tales about Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer's curse. The ultimate battle of ballerina egos emerges as the story of destiny and despair is portrayed.

Inspired by a masterwork from the great Canadian dance legacy, Lignes et Pointes (1975), Double Variations is co-choreographed by two of Vancouver's most exciting and diverse talents, Simone Orlando and Joe Laughlin. Set to a newly commissioned score by the Vancouver composer James Maxwell, this ballet is sure to become a favourite. Orlando, also an accomplished dancer, has trained at the National Ballet School in Toronto, been a member of the National Ballet of Canada and been featured in dances from New York to Toronto, and from Vancouver to Kelowna. Her choreography contrasts nicely with Laughlin's unique contemporary style, which is formed from a background in gymnastics. He not only choreographs ballet but opera, theatre and TV as well, and has been featured around the world, including the United Kingdom, Europe, South Africa and South Korea. Double Variations is a ballet that is both beautiful and technically challenging.

Presented by the Chilliwack Arts & Cultural Centre Society, Double Variations is a rich and textured evening of dance based on each choreographer's individual movement style and interpretation of the composer's musical themes and variations.

Ballet Kelowna educates and entertains through the energy and artistry of dance. With the goal of enhancing the image of ballet, making the art form more inviting, fun and personally meaningful, Ballet Kelowna dramatically tells the story of deception and ultimate doom in a stunning performance that captures the imagination of all members of the family.

? For tickets call the centre box office at 604391-SHOW (7469) or visit in person Monday to Friday, 9: 30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 9: 30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are also available online at www.chilliwackculturalcentre.ca.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Dancers Raelynn Heppell and Davin Luce performing in Double Variations.
 

Dancers Raelynn Heppell and Davin Luce performing in Double Variations.

Photograph by: Glenna Tumbull photo , for the TIMES

 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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