32tendu

Hey there, Sadly, I have never had the opportunity to see Ms. Farrell perform. Not even on film. I have seen several photographs of her and she was simply beautiful. I hope to pick up "Elusive Muse" very soon. The image of Don Q with Mr. Balanchine is one of my favorite things. I may add, I am a photographer. You know a performer had an impact when simple snap shots make you a believer. I can't wait to see her in motion. Congrats Ms. Farrell and thanks.

I have seen some harsh performance critics here at Ballet Alert. However, most posters do seem supportive and very much in love with the art form. I am not a professional ballet dancer, but I have spent a considerable time around the ballet. Documenting it's history, studying technique and taking photographs of it's performers. Ballet is extremely hard work. The discipline alone is overwhelming. By the time you add the pressure of performance, physical injuries and competition.. you're basically as vunerable as you can be as a person. The standards are very high. This may explain many of the emotional setbacks an insecurities of some performers. I suppose it's fair to pick apart the technical aspects of a certain performance. You did pay your money. However, these artists are inspiring the next generation of young dancers. Its easy to negative. It takes strength to be gentle and kind. So to all of the current dancers who are giving themselves to the art and to those who have come before. Thank you! Dance on. I've got your back!

Hey, I finished the Gottlieb book this week. It was broad. However, I did enjoy reading it. It was certainly a fast read and correctly titled "A Brief Life of George Balanchine". There was some new to me information, but mostly it was a very basic understanding of Mr. B's life. It also has a few terrific images within. I fell fast in love with Mr. B sitting at the piano between Maria Tallchief and Tanny. Not to mention the other wonderful artists. So much talent in one photo. Excellent portrait. Edited to merge two separate posts by 32tendu on this topic. --carbro

thank you all for the informantion and feedback.

Hello, Is there an online archive of Arlene Croce's past work? I hear there is an anthology out there, but I haven't been able to track it down. Thanks, 32tendu

Part of the beauty of ballet in my humble opinion, is it's diversity and depth. Everyone has different strengths and body shapes. Some have extention, some can turn or jump. The sign of a good artistic director is one who can apply the strengths of each dancer. Personally, I like watching what the individual brings to the piece. The corps looks best when it's all together on the music. Tall or short. Men probably have more partnering ops when they are a bit taller. Then again, what do I know! Peace, 32tendu