A PREMIERE TRAINING FACILITY
CO-FOUNDERS YVONNE MOUNSEY AND ROSEMARY VALAIRE
Martine Harley, Artistic Director
Santa Monica, California
Santa Monica, California
This Spring, Westside Ballet of Santa Monica presents the annual Masters of Movement showcase and Gala the weekend of May 31 and June 1st.
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Gala Program
The Gala program will feature two works by renowned choreographer Jerome Robbins and a lesser-known masterpiece by August Bounonville.
“Other Dances” is a celebrated ballet choreographed by Jerome Robbins, originally created for the legendary couple Natalia Makarova and Mikhail Baryshnikov. It will be performed at Westside Ballet’s prestigious Gala by New York City Ballet Principals—alumna Tiler Peck and Roman Mejia.
Premiering in 1976, “Other Dances” explores the theme of love in its many forms, from passionate and exuberant to tender and introspective. The duet’s choreography captures fleeting moments of joy and melancholy, inviting audiences to reflect on the nuances of human connection. It is set to Frédéric Chopin’s evocative Nocturnes and Waltzes piano music, which will be performed live on stage. With its poignant choreography and expressive musicality, “Other Dances” stands as a testament to Robbins’ ability to convey deep emotional truths through movement. The Pas de Deux serves to highlight the artistry of the dancers and the timeless beauty of the ballet form.
“Circus Polka” is a short ballet choreographed by Robbins, set to Stravinsky’s score and originally created for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus by George Balanchine. This whimsical piece brings the excitement of the circus to the ballet stage. The ballet features a parade of children, highlighting the playful and vibrant atmosphere of a circus. The choreography is characterized by lively, rhythmic movements that mimic the energy of circus performances, the innocence and exuberance of childhood, as well as the magic of the circus experience, captured through joyful movement and playful interactions. Colorful costumes and elaborate staging contribute to the whimsical nature of the ballet, inviting audiences into a fantastical world.
“Le Conservatoire” is a one-act ballet choreographed in 1849 by August Bournonville, a prominent Danish ballet master known for his narrative-driven works and emphasis on character and expression. The ballet is set in a conservatory where various students and instructors engage in humorous and playful interactions. It is a recreation of a Vestris dance class of the exact type attended by Bournonville during his Paris sojourn in the 1820s.
The ballet highlights themes of youthful ambition and the joy of learning. The choreography features lively dance sequences that reflect the personality of each character, blending classical ballet technique with a light-hearted approach. Bournonville’s style showcases intricate footwork, playful jumps, and ensemble work that emphasizes the group dynamic in the conservatory setting.
Spring Showcase
The Spring Showcase Masters of Movement Program will feature the works of August Bournonville, Marius Petipa and newly created pieces highlighting both the versatility of the dancers and the innovation of dance in its many forms. These ballets and performances each offer a unique exploration of themes related to love, ambition, and the joy of performance, showcasing the diverse styles and narratives within the world of dance.
“Le Conservatoire” is a one-act ballet choreographed in 1849 by August Bournonville, a prominent Danish ballet master known for his narrative-driven works and emphasis on character and expression. The ballet is set in a conservatory where various students and instructors engage in humorous and playful interactions. It is a recreation of a Vestris dance class of the exact type attended by Bournonville during his Paris sojourn in the 1820s.
The ballet highlights themes of youthful ambition and the joy of learning. The choreography features lively dance sequences that reflect the personality of each character, blending classical ballet technique with a light-hearted approach. Bournonville’s style showcases intricate footwork, playful jumps, and ensemble work that emphasizes the group dynamic in the conservatory setting.
Excerpts from “Coppelia,” a charming ballet choreographed by Arthur Saint-Léon and set to music by Léo Delibes. Excerpts will include the Friends Dance from the lively village scene of Act I where Swanilda and her friends dance together; from Act III, The Dance of the Hours: one of the ballet’s most celebrated sequences; the male solo of Franz; and the Betrothal Dance, all illustrating the joy and energy of the characters through spirited choreography.
A contemporary work choreographed by Mark Tomassic, Dance Director at Santa Monica College, shows off the versatility of the dancers as they go beyond the classical realm.
Westside Ballet alumna “Miss K” fulfills a dream by choreographing a beautiful ballet for the company’s youngest performers.
“Cabaret,” originally directed by Bob Fosse, and arranged by Westside’s own Michele Bachar Mendicelli, is a jazz musical that transports audiences to 1930s Berlin, and the backdrop of the seedy yet vibrant world of the Kit Kat Club. The setting is filled with enticing performances, showcasing a blend of jazz & cabaret, and iconic songs like “Wilkommen” & “Money,” reflecting the characters’ struggles and desires, delivered through dynamic choreography that emphasizes Fosse’s signature style, combining sensuality and sharp movements.
Program Notes:
Spring Performance: Ballet Excerpts
Spring Performance: Children’s Ballets
Spring Performance: Original Ballets
Spring Performance: Short Ballets
Spring Performance: Story Ballets
Past Spring Performances:
Spring Performances 2017 – 2021
Spring Performances 2010 – 2012
Spring Performances 2005 – 2009
