BalletX Blends Old And New For National Dance Day
At the American Dance Festival in Cleveland, headliner BalletX take classical ballet in new directions.
Festival headliners BalletX, a Philadelphia-based contemporary ballet company, performs three pieces showcasing that philosophy for National Dance Day July 27 at the Ohio Theatre.
The troupe expands the genteel palate of classical ballet, experimenting with popular modern styles such as hip-hop while preserving technique.
“One piece was choreographed by [street dance star] Lil Buck, who does dance where it doesn’t look like he even has bones,” says Pam Young, DanceCleveland’s executive director.
“The founders wanted to take ballet into the 21st century. This is a lesson right in front of [students’] eyes about the breadth of the dancer.”
Playhouse Square, Ohio Theatre, 1511 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, 216-241-6000, dancecleveland.org
