Dear Golden Slave:
Welcome. I am a new amateur beginner, as well. I have watched a lot of Italian ballets. I would be interested in learning about the perception of ballet in Italy. Recently, Silvie Guillem was quoted, during a press conference given in anticipation of a performance of Manon at La Scala, criticizing the administration of La Scala and indicating it did not support artists. I was interested in the basis for this commentary. Also, I am interested in the perception of Roberto Bolle and Alessandra Ferri (and to a lesser extent, Beatrice Carbone) in Italy, both inside and outside of ballet circles. What is the celebrity culture like and why do ballerini seem to considered so much a part of the celebrity culture (e.g., appearing in tabloids and on so many red carpet events)? Perhaps my perception is off based on the few articles I have read, and the poor translations I have obtained of these articles! Thank you, pt