All articles tagged with #performing arts
The Washington National Opera announced it would sever ties with the Kennedy Center, pursuing independence to safeguard its audience and the art form. The columnist frames the move as institutional courage and a prudent step for the company’s survival, arguing the split benefits both the company and its artistic mission, despite ongoing debate about the broader implications.
The Trump-appointed board of the Kennedy Center voted to rename it the Trump-Kennedy Center, a move criticized by Democrats and Kennedy family members, with Trump expressing surprise and honor. The decision has sparked controversy, with some seeing it as a petty political move, and has led to resignations and cancellations at the center.
The Edinburgh Festival Fringe, once a symbol of alternative and experimental performance, is facing criticism for becoming more mainstream and expensive, which threatens its original free-spirited vibe as rising costs deter some performers and audiences, despite remaining one of the world's largest and most diverse arts festivals.
President Trump announced the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors recipients, celebrating American icons in performing arts including George Strait, Michael Crawford, Sylvester Stallone, Gloria Gaynor, and KISS, recognizing their significant contributions to culture and entertainment.
The Kennedy Center's subscription sales for the upcoming season have dropped by approximately 36%, resulting in a revenue decrease of about $1.6 million compared to the previous year, with total revenue at $2,811,767 as of June 1, 2024.
Vladimir Shklyarov, a renowned Russian ballet dancer, has passed away at the age of 39. Shklyarov was celebrated for his exceptional talent and contributions to the world of ballet, leaving a significant impact on the performing arts community.
The article explores the challenges faced by the Paul Taylor Dance Company in maintaining its artistic identity and legacy following the death of its founder, Paul Taylor. It highlights the company's efforts to preserve Taylor's choreographic style while also embracing new works and directions, leading to a period of transition marked by both continuity and change.
Judith Jamison, renowned for her powerful and radiant performances as a dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, has passed away at the age of 81. Her legacy in the world of dance is celebrated for its profound impact and inspiration.
Four young theater actors, including former Broadway performers Corey J and Aria Kane, performed a concert of show tunes for residents at an Upper East Side senior center. The event, organized by Evan Rossi, the senior director of resident experience at Inspir Carnegie Hill, was the first to feature children actors. The residents were incredibly excited for the concert, which included performances from the children and a Q&A session. The concert provided an opportunity for the children to connect with an older generation through their shared passion for musical theater.
Aviva Studios, an ambitious arts and culture center in Manchester, UK, is set to open its doors after eight years of construction. Designed by Dutch architect Ellen van Loon, the £240 million ($292 million) project aims to revolutionize performing arts by offering flexible and customizable spaces. The center features a warehouse that can be transformed into any type of space, a traditional theater with removable walls, and a detachable acoustic wall that allows for simultaneous events. The project represents a unique approach to architecture and hopes to revitalize Manchester's arts sector.
"Sing Sing" is a powerful and emotional drama directed by Greg Kwedar that explores the transformative power of performing arts in the context of prison life. The film follows the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program at Sing Sing correctional facility, where inmates put on plays as a means of rehabilitation. It highlights the inmates' journey from prison numbers to embodying characters on stage, offering a momentary escape from the harsh realities of incarceration. While occasionally faltering in pacing, the film resonates with raw emotion and authenticity, emphasizing the need for empathy and understanding towards individuals behind bars.
The pandemic has exacerbated the decline of theater subscriptions, with many theaters experiencing a steep drop in the number of people buying season tickets. The loss of subscribers has led to financial challenges for nonprofit theaters, as subscriptions provide a reliable income stream and reduce marketing costs. Theaters are struggling to attract and retain audiences due to factors such as the habit of not attending during theater closures, the convenience of streaming entertainment at home, and dissatisfaction with recent programming. Theaters are now exploring more flexible subscription options and seeking new patrons to replace lost revenue.
Ben Platt discusses his role in the film "Theater Camp," which he co-wrote and stars in alongside Molly Gordon. The movie is a love letter to their friendship and the world of child performing arts. Platt talks about the inspiration behind the film, including his own experiences at a Jewish summer camp and the documentary "Stagedoor." He also reflects on his relationship with Molly, their shared theater background, and the importance of depicting a genuine and meaningful friendship between a gay boy and his girl best friend.
The Fisher Center at Bard, designed by Frank Gehry, has become a hub for cross-disciplinary and experimental work in the performing arts. Over the past 20 years, the center has produced commercially successful productions like Justin Peck's "Illinois" while maintaining its commitment to pushing artistic boundaries. The center is set to expand with a new studio building and has received a grant to support the work of artist Tania El Khoury. Despite the challenges faced by the performing arts industry, the Fisher Center continues to thrive as a haven for innovative and daring productions.
The 2023 Gene Kelly Awards will honor high school musicals in Western Pennsylvania, recognizing the talent and hard work of young performers in the region's performing arts programs.