News Summary
Ballet Memphis is witnessing a rise in talent as Emilia Sandoval presents her third commissioned work for the dance company. With a deep connection to Memphis, Sandoval’s choreography has earned local acclaim. Under the leadership of Steven McMahon, Ballet Memphis continues to innovate, commissioning new works and enhancing community outreach initiatives. The company remains dedicated to diversity and inclusion, ensuring a vibrant future for ballet in the region.
Exciting Times for Ballet Memphis as Emilia Sandoval Dazzles with New Choreography
In the vibrant city of Memphis, art is alive and well, especially in the world of ballet, where Emilia Sandoval has stepped into the spotlight once again. Sandoval has had an exceptional journey with Ballet Memphis, presenting her third commissioned work for the renowned dance company. Her talent continues to shine, and she’s proving to be a key figure in the local dance scene!
A Rising Star
Being a native Memphian, Sandoval’s connection to the community runs deep. Over the years, she has not only showcased her remarkable skills as a dancer but has also carved out a significant role for herself as a choreographer within the company. It’s been exciting to watch her success unfold as she earns praise for her natural ability to create stunning choreography that resonates with both audiences and fellow dancers alike.
History and Growth of Ballet Memphis
Ballet Memphis has an inspiring history that started back in 1986. Founded by Dorothy Gunther Pugh, the company, initially named Memphis Concert Ballet, began with just two dancers and a modest $75,000 budget. Fast forward to today, and the company has flourished! With a main stage home that sprawls across a hefty $22 million new headquarters opened in 2017, Ballet Memphis now employs 18 talented dancers and boasts an annual operating budget of an impressive $4.2 million.
Leadership Changes and Artistic Vision
After Pugh retired in 2019, Steven McMahon took up the mantle as the second artistic director in the organization’s history. Having danced for Ballet Memphis from 2004 to 2016 himself, McMahon understood the company’s dynamics intimately. Since taking on his new role, he has showcased his impressive choreographic skills by creating over 30 ballets for the company, including beloved full-length productions like Peter Pan and Romeo and Juliet.
McMahon’s vision for Ballet Memphis is clear: he aims to create thematic works that challenge the norm while exploring important questions through the beautiful mediums of ballet and contemporary dance. His repertoire beautifully blends classical elegance with contemporary flair. Recent works have also ventured into incorporating Southern music and literature, making performances even more relatable and exciting for audiences.
Fostering New Talent
As part of his efforts to keep the company fresh and innovative, McMahon is commissioning works from emerging choreographers, such as Marcus Willis, Alia Kache, Durante Verzola, and of course, Emilia Sandoval. The company thrives on curiosity and versatility, fostering an environment that encourages individuality. Auditions are held annually across notable cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Houston, ensuring they find the best talent available.
Community and Diversity Initiatives
Giving back to the community is essential to Ballet Memphis, evident from their dancer-choreographed program called INTERIORWORKS, which supports the Artists’ Resource Fund. Moreover, the company became a union in January, with dancers joining The American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA), ensuring a fair work environment. Currently, dancers hold contracts for 38 weeks at starting salaries of $650 per week, and they perform up to 28 shows a year.
Ballet Memphis takes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility seriously, ensuring these principles remain a core part of their mission. With McMahon at the helm, there’s a palpable sense of excitement as he is actively exploring ways to provide more opportunities for young dancers and increase touring prospects, ultimately spreading the magic of Ballet Memphis beyond the city limits.
In summary, Emilia Sandoval is not just a growing talent in Ballet Memphis; she represents the beauty and innovation flowing through this enchanting company. As it continues to evolve and celebrate new works, the community is in for a treat!
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Additional Resources
- Ballet Memphis 2025 Winter Mix Highlights
- Wikipedia: Ballet Memphis
- Pointe Magazine: Ballet Memphis
- Google Search: Emilia Sandoval Ballet Memphis
- Ballet Memphis: Where We Come From
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ballet
- Ballet Memphis White Oak Soloist Choreographers
- Google News: Ballet Memphis
