James Sewell Ballet: Ballet Works Project 2/8/13

Approaching its 20th year as a Twin Cities Dance Phenomenon, James Sewell Ballet introduces an exciting "choreo-graphic" program, Ballet Works Project that brings together innovators and dancers to premier new work. The show opens on Friday, February 8, 2013, and runs on weekends through February 24, 2013. 

JSB was founded by James Sewell and Sally Rousse in New York City, locating to Minneapolis in 1993. Known for their innovative, challenging vision, they have developed a close-knit dance company that tests the physical and creative limits of the artists while evolving notions and parameters about ballet.

Co-founder, Sally Rousse, in Intervals

The first half of the program progresses from a delicious opening number, Salmon Marshmallow Bear Dancer, that is a reflection on co-founder Sally Rousse's notable career, moving to the enchanting and hysterical, The Lounge Twins Die and Go to Heaven, with a wallop of a piece by 16-year old, Erin Arntson, who is an emerging choreographic talent from the Reif Dance program in Grand Rapids, MN. Here, is Artistic Director, James Sewell, discussing his relationship with Grand Rapids high school program. 

In his debut as a choreographer, dance company member, Cory Goei, premiers a moving dance piece, The Meaning of Ilk, about love, loss and hope, in memory of his young neice who was killed in an accident. 

While Minnesotan cultural organizations often thrive on grants from the state's many arts councils and grant-making bodies, no organization could survive without a strong, participatory board of directors, Here is board member, Joanne Gordon, former dancer and dance instructor, explaining her involvement with JSB.

The ovation is hearty and well-earned!

The JSB is located at The Cowles Center, 528 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403, Tel. 612.672.0480. Learn more about them by clicking the highlighted link above.