Saint Louis Ballet dancers Kate Rouzer and Michael McGonegal
Photo by Pratt + Kreidich
Internationally regarded artistic director, Gen Horiuchi, has danced with the greatest ballet dancers in the world. After he was hand-picked by the great George Balanchine, he became a Principal Dancer with New York City Ballet. To say he is an extremely accomplished dancer is an understatement. Dancers from all over the country have made the move to Saint Louis to audition for, train with and perform under Horiuchi.
While people typically see ballet performances on the grand Touhill stage, the Go! Series, presented by Saint Louis Ballet, is a departure from traditional ballet into the eyes of newer and younger audiences. The debut performance at the Grandel Theatre will feature pure, raw talent and wide-ranging choreography, including a world premiere by in-demand choreographer Kevin Jenkins. This series will be on a more laid-back, relaxed scale. There will be no heavy, red curtains, no big props and a considerably smaller stage. The fancy sets, special effects and pyrotechnics will be saved for a later date. The dancers, the audience and the energy of the theatre will be the main attractions.
Bringing ballet to this smaller stage has its perks. Recently renovated, The Grandel is also home to The Dark Room, a charmingly artistic restaurant complete with a gallery, delicious food and free live music. Head to the show early and enjoy a glass of wine as live jazz music floats through the air and the smell of Lamb Kabob and Petite Beef Tenderloin prime your taste buds for an excellent meal.
After the show and before you call it a night, treat yourself to a drink in the lobby bar and mingle with the dancers and choreographers, many of whom currently call St. Louis their home base. They live and thrive in this city, support the community and have amazing stories to share.
The Go! Series at the Grandel Theatre will take place March 2-3 at 8:00PM. You don't have to be a ballet veteran to enjoy this show. New people and new experiences are what make the Go! Series so special. Purchase tickets and turn the show into a wonderful evening out.
This post was created by St. Louis Magazine on behalf of Saint Louis Ballet. Visit www.metrotix.com to purchase tickets to the Go! Series at The Grandel Theatre.
