California Contemporary Ballet to Show Special Retrospective Video of 14 Years of “The Snow Queen”

LA CANADA, CA: In celebration of their 15 years presenting “The Snow Queen,” California Contemporary Ballet (http://www.calballet.com) will be releasing a short video to be seen just prior to the performances of the ballet on December 21st, 22nd, and 23rd. The video will document the progression of the ballet over the course of the past 14 years.

The show’s producers hope that the video will capture some of the past costumes, sets, cast members and memorable moments. In addition to being the ballet's composer, Randall Michael Tobin is producing the retrospective video. Mr. Tobin has also produced many of the past yearly videos for “The Snow Queen.”

Holt says, "We decided that since we have been doing this show for 15 years, and since the show really has evolved from the early days to today, that it would great to show a retrospective video so people could see some of the great moments and how the show has changed. Mr. Tobin's contributions to our company and to ‘The Snow Queen’ have been immense. I trust his commitment to high standards and excellence. Creating this project with him has been a great creative journey." 

The video will be seen just prior to the show’s opening curtain and audiences are encouraged to arrive early so that they are certain not to miss it.

“The Snow Queen” will appear at the Glendale Community College Theater on Friday, December 21 at 7:30pm, Saturday, December 22 at 2:00pm and Sunday, December 23 at 2:00pm. Tickets in advance: $20-$25 At Door: $25-$30 Discounts available for groups. Tickets are available at http://www.SnowQueenBallet.com or http://www.CalBallet.com or by calling 818-790-7924.

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15th Anniversary of California Contemporary Ballet's "The Snow Queen" Seasonal Extravaganza

Local Ballet Company Presents Performance in Glendale, Featuring Local Professional and Amateur Talent in a Festive Display of Ballet, Contemporary Dance, Aerial Arts, and Gymnastics

La Cañada, CA: California Contemporary Ballet (http://www.CalBallet.com and http://www.SnowQueenBallet.com) will present the 15th anniversary showing of the original ballet “The Snow Queen,” with three shows on December 21st, 22nd and 23rd. The ballet, first shown in 1998, is the brainchild of Artistic Director Aerin Holt and composer Randall Michael Tobin, and is based on the classic tale by Hans Christian Andersen.

For 15 years, Aerin Holt has served as Artistic Director of this holiday classic. With sold-out performances each year, Ms. Holt and her Company might be inclined to wax nostalgic, but they show no signs of slowing down. Instead, they are gearing up for a dazzling anniversary extravaganza to mark their 15th season at the Glendale Community College Theater, with an evening performance at 7:30pm on December 21st, and matinees at 2:00pm on December 22nd and 23rd.

In 2007, Holt took her dance company, California Contemporary Ballet, which had previously been a youth company, and converted it into a professional dance company with professional dancers. Together with its existing youth company members, the performing troupe put together an artfully integrated cast for “The Snow Queen” comprised of professional and youth talent to fill the principal roles of the ballet.

Each year since then, the professional company dancers are supported by dancers, actors and gymnasts from the community in chorus roles, resulting in a 65-member cast from Los Angeles and the local communities of Burbank, Glendale, La Cañada Flintridge, La Crescenta, and Pasadena.

This year, “The Snow Queen” will feature new professional talent performing the starring roles including Lauren Farrell (from Burbank), who was personally selected by Holt to perform the title role of the Snow Queen.

In an effort to keep the show fresh, Holt continually changes many of the roles and conducts auditions every season. “In fifteen years, we’ve had fifteen casts,” Holt boasts. She also enjoys reworking the choreography to fit the talent of her cast members. While The Snow Queen may be touted as a ballet, Ms. Holt infuses each performance with classical and contemporary dance styles that weave together the classic winter-time tale by Hans Christian Andersen.

Further changes to the production have included the introduction of aerial arts, where “creatures” resembling wolves, panthers, leopards and other wild animals perform on hanging silk scarves as the Snow Queen delicately balances 40 feet in the air on a hanging hoop. Indeed, Ms. Farrell finds the aerial aspect of her role to be challenging. A trained ballerina, Farrell is getting a crash course in aerial ballet. “I’m really excited and look forward to performing aerial. An opportunity to learn and to perform a role like this is exciting”.

Also featured in this year’s production is Lissa Farrington (La Crescenta), as she skillfully blends dance and gymnastics in the role of The Crow. Dancer Julia Houser (La Cañada Flintridge), and a long-time member of the youth company, will be featured in the role as Gypsy Girl, a role that requires both dance and gymnastic skills. A seasoned aerialist, Houser is also featured on the aerial scarves and is seen performing many dazzling moves before falling in a death-defying drop, catching herself mere inches from the floor. Holt adds, “It was always my intention to integrate circus arts into the ballet, thereby creating an atmosphere of the fantastic."

Holt set out to create a new ballet tradition and the Company’s 15-year evolution is living proof of her success. A cursory search of the internet reveals that the Snow Queen has grown in popularity as more companies appear to be producing the story as either a ballet or play. Holt firmly maintains that her Company blazed a trail by being the first to adapt the story for ballet, and it has evolved into an annual December production much like the Nutcracker. California Contemporary Ballet’s Snow Queen has become a community favorite for the holidays and offers a seasonal, family-friendly alternative to the myriad of Nutcracker productions, at affordable ticket rates.

The Snow Queen will appear at the Glendale Community College Theater on Friday, December 21 at 7:30pm, Saturday, December 22 at 2:00pm and Sunday, December 23 at 2:00pm. Tickets in advance: $20-$25 At Door: $25-$30 Discounts available for groups. Tickets are available at http://www.SnowQueenBallet.com or http://www.CalBallet.com or by calling 818-790-7924.

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California Dance Arts News for April

Lasting Memories Of Your Favorite Dancer!
Snow Queen Prints Available for Purchase!

Beautiful photos were taken during last year's production of The Snow Queen—performance shots, rehearsals, backstage shots—by Kathy Hanson Photography and are now available for purchase!

Hundreds of photos of the 2011 Snow Queen cast are available. You can order prints in various sizes and formats—small, large, glossy, matte, framed, canvas, etc. You can even get t-shirts, mugs, playing cards, etc with the images of your child or favorite Snow Queen cast members!

View the colorful, professional-quality photos at these links:

http://khanson.smugmug.com/Other/Performance/20893492_SGxNVP
http://khanson.smugmug.com/Other/Dress-Rehearsal-at-GCC/20874238_zCTj2X
http://khanson.smugmug.com/Other/Ballet-Portraits/20908732_kx8h7q
http://khanson.smugmug.com/Other/Dance-Class/20793684_gxjxJF

Add your choices to your cart and choose the format. Prices will vary depending on size, format, etc.

If you have any questions about ordering, contact California DanceArts at info@caldancearts.com or contact Kathy Hanson Photography at kathy@kathyhansonphotography.com

 

Summer Intensive Auditions - April 14, 2012

Auditions will be held again for California DanceArts:
Youth Ballet Intensive
Sat. April 14 at 9:30am
(Level 1 and Level 2 students may audition)

Los Angeles Int'l Ballet Intensive
Sat. April 14 at 12:00pm
(Level 3 and above may audition)

 

Ballet Basics: How To Make A Ballet Bun

It is part of good traditional ballet training to learn to create a proper ballet bun and to learn to do it quickly.

California DanceArts requires all students to have their hair fastened securely out of the face and off of the neck. Young ladies should have nice pretty ballet buns in class just as they must have for performances. It is a matter of creating good habits for performance and giving dancers the opportunity to work without the distraction of hair in the face and eyes. Some movements are thrown off by the weight of the hair when it is loose.

Although not acceptable for performances, occasionally when you are really in a bind-- running late to class or mom is away and dad is left to handle the bun making, for instance--there are handy “Bear Claw” clips that can be purchased at any drug store. By twisting the hair up as described above and securing it with the ‘Bear Claw,’ the bun is made fast and secure without bobby pins.

Here's how to make a good bun:

Brush your hair; make sure that there are no tangles.

Pull back into a ponytail using a comb or brush to remove the bumps. If necessary, spray the hair with a quick-drying hairspray (an inexpensive brand is okay). You have already used a comb or brush to remove the lumps, so now you can use hairspray (optional, depends on the style of your hair) to smooth with your hand all of those wisps up and into the bun.

Put an extra rubber band around your ponytail, just for extra security. It is important to have a strong foundation for your bun so it doesn't fall down.

Separate hair into 2 equal sections.

Take one half and twist the whole strand together, tightly.

Tightly wind the strand of hair around the ponytail holder, as if curling around it, not over it. You should probably use heavy-duty hairpins such as Scunci Bobby Pins to hold up your hair. They are about $2.00 for 18. Most people find that an actual hair pin versus a bobby pin can hold their hair better. You will want to get the thicker kind, especially if you have thick or curly hair, because the thin ones are easily bent out of shape.

Securely fasten the hair. You can do this by putting a bobby pin in like your bun like it was a clock. 12 o'clock, 3 o'clock, 6 o'clock, and 9 o'clock. If the first half of your bun feels a little shaky, put more bobby pins in where desired.

Repeat these same steps for the second half of your ponytail.

For extra security, cover your bun with a hair net that matches your hair color. (Hint: If you have blonde hair, don't use the gray hair net because then your bun looks purple. If you're a brunette, don't use the blonde hair net because then you have a lighter bun than the rest of your hair and that gives you the air of being unprofessional and/or colorblind.)

If there are any wispies, or frizzies, lightly spray with hairspray, all over.

There are a lot of videos on the internet that show this process and additional tricks to help you. Just do an internet search for “Ballet Bun”.

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International Ballet Intensive Hosted Again By California DanceArts

Los Angeles Dance School To Host Intensives For Experienced And Youth Dancers

LOS ANGELES, CA: California DanceArts, (http://www.caldancearts.com) will be holding auditions for its Los Angeles International Ballet Intensive and its Youth Ballet Intensive on April 14th for the 2012 Intensives. Auditions will be held at the main studio in La Canada, located in the midst of Los Angeles. The intensive will take place in July, running from the 9th to the 28th, and attending students will get the chance to literally go global, by taking advantage of opportunities to attend foreign dance programs through the Global Ballet Workshops. Limited attendance only.

The advanced curriculum of the Los Angeles International Ballet Intensive has brought it much acclaim, including from such organizations as the Ostrava Ballet in Prague. It has also garnered an international teaching faculty with instructors hailing from such companies as the Laine Theatre Arts in England, the New York City Ballet, the San Francisco Ballet and the Joffrey Ballet. The curriculum will include classical ballet, contemporary, pointe, special conditioning and placement classes and even aerial ballet, culminating in a performance by the students. In addition to the above international faculty, dancers will, of course, receive instruction from California DanceArts founder and artistic director, Ms. Erin Holt.

A Youth Ballet Intensive will be hosted as well in the Los Angeles studio of California DanceArts. Students at an intermediate level (the approximate age group is 9-12) will be able to hone their skills in such traditional fields as classical ballet, pointe preparation, and conditioning, but also in more varied themes such as modern, jazz, improve, and aerial. Unique in the program is a Choreography Workshop where young dancers can begin to learn to not follow choreography but create it themselves.

Ms. Holt stated: “As we draw closer to the beginning of our Intensives, we are very much looking forward to the opportunity to present dance in its most aesthetic form this summer. We believe that dancers need to stay in top condition the year round and nowhere is that more important than when young dancers are nearing a professional state. We hope to provide diverse new experiences to these dancers while bringing their skills in dance to entirely new levels.”

Since 1987, California DanceArts has been dedicated to the purpose of grooming and nurturing the talents of beginning to serious career dance students. Its current location in beautiful La Canada is among several schools and recreational facilities. More information on California DanceArts 2010 summer dance workshops can be seen at http://www.danceallsummerworkshops.com. The school’s blog can be seen at http://caldancearts.typepad.com. For more information about California DanceArts and the programs offered by the school, call 818-790-7924, or visit the school online at http://www.caldancearts.com.

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SEVERE WEATHER WARNING!

SEVERE WEATHER WARNING!

A heavy snow storm is expected to hit Glendale, California THIS WEEKEND. The wrath of the Snow Queen (Alyssa Thompson) is great and mighty, and the weather center announced today that we may be in for one of the longest-running storms in history, lasting many years!

Unconfirmed reports indicate that the Snow Queen is under the alluring spell of a mystical and magical mirror that was created by an Evil Sorceress (Kayla Stepanian). The storm will begin with tiny delicate snowflakes, gathering momentum before the flooding begins to overtake the River (performed by California Contemporary Youth Ballet). We predict that the floods will be very strong and we advise the Enchantress (Amanda Hart) to protect her garden and to take extra care of the delicate Rose (Ellery Bute).

Flights are restricted to the north and any aircraft and particularly birds, such as The Crow (Zsolt Banki) and his Sweetheart (Holly Pace), are advised to remain grounded until show time. To the northeast, below-zero temperatures may cause widespread mischief, and any gypsy man, Gypsy Woman (Kayla Stepanian) or Gypsy Girl (Julia Houser) should take cover. There is also much concern about Forest Nymphs (Monika Beuzet) and forest creatures, particularly the smaller delicate animals. However, many of the ferocious Wolves, Panthers and Bears are well-clothed, and they should prove strong enough to adapt to such conditions.

While travel advisories are in place, animals such as our Reindeer (Zsolt Banki and Holly Pace) certainly will not be affected by the cold and experts agree that such animals provide good protection and ideal companionship if forced to travel during the storm. There is much discussion in the village regarding sightings of two Guardian Angels--the Angel of Guidance (Kate Bonham) and the Angel of Enlightenment (Ellie Peterson). Fearing the storm, many are praying that the Guradian Angels will find a way to protect the entire village and deliver us all from the storm as soon as possible.

While taking steps to secure the castle, the Prince (Nick Zerman) and Princess (Isabella Bunting) are rumored to be optimistic that the storm will avoid the area... since the sun always shines at the castle. The royal couple has already sent invitations to all of their constituents throughout the countryside to take cover at the castle, just in case any townsfolk need a safe haven. Invitations delivered personally by the Coachman (Alex Cordebard) include a celebration, once the storm breaks. 

During the storm, Randy Tobin's newly enhanced musical composition will provide dramatic thunder bolts, while we hope Erin Holt's choreography will deliver enough magic and love between our new sweethearts, Gerda (Kelinda White) and Kai (Rob Westin) , enabling them to brave through and eventually defeat the storm. We all know that the power of love is very strong and can defeat anything.

Don't miss The Snow Queen 2011!

Presented by California Contemporary Ballet

Performed at Glendale Community College
1500 N. Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208

December 16 at 7:30pm
December 17 at 2:00pm & 7:30pm
December 18 at 2:00pm

Tickets can be purchased at www.snowqueenballet.com. Tickets purchased in advance: $25 for adults, $20 for child; tickets purchase at the door: $30 for adults, $25 for child. Group rates available. For more information, call California DanceArts 818-790-7924 or visit www.calballet.com.

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The 14th Seasonal Presentation of California Contemporary Ballet’s The Snow Queen

Once upon a time, there was a wicked magician. He fashioned a mirror with the power to make all that was good and beautiful reflect in the mirror as mean and wicked.

Alas, the unthinkable happened…the mirror was shattered into a million tiny pieces, swept up by the wind, and then spread throughout the land, affecting the unsuspecting townsfolk. The Snow Queen, creator of the winter wind and snow, was also profoundly affected as the tiny slivers of mirror lodged into her very soul. Dark times soon followed….

Welcome to California Contemporary Ballet’s The Snow Queen!

Embark on an incredible journey of two dear friends, Kai and Gerda. Discover fascinating characters as the classic tale is brought to life. Meet the Enchantress, Gypsy Girl, Gypsy Boy, Crows, and enjoy the beautiful dance of the Prince and Princess, performing a grand pas de deux. Follow Gerda as she experiences perilous obstacles, and in the end, rejoice in the celebration of a town freed at last from the mirror’s evil spell. Open yourself to the world of the Snow Queen who reverses the old tragedy and brings tears of joy to an entire village!

Performed with the power and passion of California Contemporary Ballet, it's an extraordinary blend of aerial arts, gymnastics, and a rich variety of classical ballet and contemporary dance that spin the emotional story to its surprising and delightful conclusion.

Brought to life by the creative vision of the company's Artistic Director and choreographer, Erin Holt, The Snow Queen Ballet is presented with an original, moving musical score by Randall Michael Tobin.

Los Angeles Times raves,“California Contemporary Ballet's show stands out… Only, it’s not the “Nutcracker.” It’s “The Snow Queen.” Adios Sugar Plum Fairy. Bienvenidos, er … Queeny.”

Now in its 14th season, The Snow Queen has become the newest ballet tradition. Its seasonal performances already a hit with audiences, California Contemporary Ballet’s version of this Hans Christian Andersen tale of goodness versus evil has become a wintertime classic with which you will surely fall in love.

Performances are Friday, December 16 at 7:30pm; Saturday, December 17 at 2:00pm and 7:30pm; and Sunday, December 18 at 2:00pm at the Glendale Community College Theater (1500 N. Verdugo Rd, Glendale, CA 91208). Tickets can be purchased at www.snowqueenballet.com. Advance tickets: $25 adults/$20 children; At the door: $30 adults/$25 children. Group rates available. For more information, call California DanceArts 818-790-7924.

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Winter Is Coming: California Contemporary Ballet Presents The Snow Queen

What people are saying...

Los Angeles Times raves,“California Contemporary Ballet's show stands out…Only, it’s not the “Nutcracker.” It’s “The Snow Queen.” “Adios Sugar Plum Fairy. Bienvenidos, er … Queeny.”

The Snow Queen was enthralling! It was delicious, technically spellbinding, a holiday miracle of beauty for the senses and the soul! I've attended each and every year's ballet, but this year topped them all! What was already perfect was retained but the improvements were truly icing on the cake. The music is gorgeous, the dancing took my breath away. Christmas doesn't start until we see The Snow Queen! --C.W.

I can't tell you enough how much I enjoyed the show. The professionalism of the company is awesome. No one holds back, from the tiniest Snowflake to the most mature Snow Queen. I loved the character Gerda's performance. She was totally alive, like a light throughout...not one dull spot, always creating the essence of the character, always glowing. The Prince and Princess set a standard of excellence in classical technique that rivals the best of companies in the world. --A.P.

Experience the magic of the Snow Queen, the creator of winter wind and snow. Based on the original story by Hans Christian Andersen, this wintertime tale can’t be missed!

Bring the entire family to experience the adventures of young Gerda as she persists to save her best friend Kai. Meet the Enchantress, Gypsy Girl, Gypsy Boy, Crows and enjoy the Prince and Princess as they perform a grand pas de deux. Open yourself to the world of the Snow Queen as she reverses an old tragedy and brings tears of joy to an entire village.

With an extraordinary blend of Aerial arts, gymnastics and a rich variety of classical ballet and contemporary dance that spin the emotional story to its surprising and delightful conclusion--from the most distinguished Princess to the tiniest Snowflake, the 2011 cast performs with power and passion.

The Snow Queen, now in its 14th season, has become the newest ballet tradition. Allow California Contemporary Ballet to give you a memorable and moving experience as they take you on a journey and transform you to the inner realm of The Snow Queen.