Atlanta Ballet Presents 'The Man in Black,' 3/23-25
By: Kelsey Denette Feb. 24, 2012
This March, Atlanta Ballet continues to distinguish itself with "edgy, unconventional fare" in the much-anticipated program The Man in Black – a compilation of three distinct works by three stand-out choreographers.
The Man in Black – Choreography by James Kudelka, Music by Johnny Cash
He conquered country, blues and rock-and-roll with his smoky voice and desperado persona, but a Johnny Cash-inspired ballet? The iconic cowboy's legendary hits and storied career proved to be the perfect muse for choreographer James Kudelka as he channels Cash in an unlikely tribute titled The Man in Black. Heart-tugging, gallant, even humorous at times, Kudelka's piece delivers imaginative choreography over an adventurous suite of Cash's hits and hidden gems. Dancers even don cowboy boots as a nod to Cash's country roots.
A 2010 Dance Magazine review called the piece "ingenious." "One of the finest works I've seen this season," said writer Steve Sucato. "In smartly crafted and marvelously danced vignettes, Kudelka tied his choreography to the emotions expressed in Cash's music. The late singer's gravelly voice, with its haunting heartbeat, drove each of the soulful dance sections."
The Man in Black will be the second James Kudelka work Atlanta Ballet has performed. Kudelka's The Four Seasons, which the company staged earlier this season, has become a fan favorite.
1st Flash – Choreography by Jorma Elo, Music by Jean Sibelius
Power, energy and athleticism are paramount in choreographer Jorma Elo's ultra-modern 1st Flash.
A former hockey goalie, Elo's dance career began on the ice when he turned to ballet to improve his flexibility - and found he was quite good. Elo has now become one of the most sought-after choreographers in the business and was even singled out as a "talent to follow" by Anna Kisselgoff in her 2004 Year in Review for The New York Times.
His style is distinct and a daring physicality infiltrates all his works, characterized by movements that swivel precariously off-kilter, only to resume balance with total grace and control. His 1st Flash is no different, combining elegance, style, speed and agility.
"Jorma Elo's 1st Flash is a reminder that the young Finnish choreographer has already developed an unmistakable style...as for me, I wish it would never end," said the Boston Globe.
Moments of Dis – Choreography by Juel D. Lane, Music by Quentin "E.Q." Johnson
Juel D. Lane is no stranger to Atlanta. A product of metro Atlanta's Tri-Cities High School, Lane has become a mainstay of the city's burgeoning dance scene.
His work – as a dancer and choreographer - has appeared on major stages around the country, but his world premiere Moments of Dis will be the first main-stage foray for Atlanta Ballet.
In Moments of Dis, Lane examines the implications of the prefix "dis": "Sometimes we become disillusioned, disrespectful, or dishonest with our personal choices in life," said Lane. "When we start to discern what the truth is, we can truly explore and manage our psyche."
His style of movement is self-described as very physical with a flare of hip hop and modern dance styles. The choreography is set to music by fellow Atlantan Quentin "EQ" Johnson. "We wanted to go with a house style rhythm for the first section - really groovy - to capture the essence of discombobulated," explaiNed Lane. "The second section is really mellow, and has an acute feel for discipline. The third section is up-tempo, very funky and blends catchy rhythms together to produce discernment."
In a preview of the work, Atlanta dance writer Andrew Alexander said "The piece was smart, funky, funny, and a wonderful fit for the dancers who took to the movement with a lot of energy and precision."
The Man In Black runs for four performances Friday, March 23 – Sunday, March 25 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. Tickets start as low as $20. Call the Ticketmaster Arts Line at (404) 817-8700, stop by a Ticketmaster outlet or the Cobb Energy Centre Box Office. To order on-line, visit www.atlantaballet.com. Groups of ten or more may call Atlanta Ballet Group Sales at (404) 873-5811 ext. 207.
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