Birmingham Royal Ballet principal dancer Matthew Lawrence is blogging over on ballet.co.uk giving his insights and behind-the-scenes comments on working for the company. Here’s an extract from his latest post ‘Why I Like Nutcracker?’ to whet your appetite:
I’ll rewind the clock a month, to Christmas pudding and Nutcracker, and answer the question ‘Why I like Nutcracker?’ Which may prompt the question, ‘Who doesn’t like Nutcracker?’ I’ll ask you to place yourself into a ballerina’s satin pointe shoes for a moment. Nutcracker for most ballet companies is an annual event, a season of around 3 weeks, around 20 shows packed full of matinees, with at least 3 roles per dancer per night, every night and/or matinee. With the added bonus of having done the same roles, with the same company for possibly 10 years more or less. Talk about ground hog day! So maybe you can excuse some dancers for feeling all ‘Nutcrackered’ out.
To follow more of Matthew’s thoughts, take a look at his blog on ballet.co.uk.
Hi Matthew, Our Studio is having a Diamond Jubilee Production (60 years) at the Civic Theatre on Sunday 11th December 2011. Our Committee was wondering whether it would be possible for you and Gaylene to appear in a Pas de Deux? I will be retiring at this time and the studio will be changing hands. It would be a great privilege to have you both to celebrate this occasion. I know it is a busy time of the year for a dancer so this note is just on the off-chance you could both come. The Friends of SABA will sponsor your trip and it would be great to see you performing at this beautiful theatre. Love and Regards,
Valerie Murray