In its 2019-2020 season, the Orlando Ballet will be bringing new dancers and performances to cater to all audiences, including families. According to Executive Director Shane Jewell, the upcoming season will mark the largest production budget in the company’s history.
From April 26-28, Orlando Ballet shared the story of the Mad Hatter after being banished from Wonderland in its world premiere of Arcadian Broad’s Wonderland: Mad Tales of the Hatter. According to Jewell, the performance ranked as the fourth-highest selling ballet they had in 44 years, excluding any Nutcracker performances.
Robert Hill, who recently celebrated his 10th anniversary with the company as artistic director, mentioned his excitement for the upcoming season based on the recent performance. He shared that the performance was well-received. Such approvals from the audience could help propel the company through its 2019-2020 season.
Hill and Jewell both mentioned that, especially for those who haven’t attended a ballet performance, it’s an occasion that everyone should experience.
“We work really hard to have ballets that everyone can enjoy. If you see our dancers, they are, absolutely, athletes and show emotion through movement. So, come with an open mind because you’ll end up being surprised,” Jewell said.
According to Hill, there will be many first-time details and performances to make this season unique. The company will be putting on the performances of Vampire’s Ball, The Nutcracker, Cinderella, Made in the USA: A Collection of American Works, and Mowgli – The Jungle Book.
With a team of two new additions, Hill expressed that he has never been more confident in his dancers to execute these performances. Most recently, Thomas Holdsworth and Kellie Fulton have joined the team, bringing a fresh experience to the group. Holdsworth comes from the United Kingdom, where he performed with the English National Ballet. Fulton joins the team with experience from Pennsylvania Ballet II.
Performances like The Nutcracker, which have been showcased before, will see new changes in which the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra will add live music to the entire performance, according to Hill. Mowgli – The Jungle Book will also premiere with a retelling of the original story. As for Vampire’s Ball, the performance will feature digital projection for the first time as actual backdrops, as opposed to traditional sets made by hand.
Even after four decades of being in the industry, Hill is prepared for the packed season ahead. He mentioned he continuously puts to work all skills and talents he’s developed over the years. With decision-making responsibilities ranging from wardrobe and lighting to choreography and music, he shares that his success comes from the positive thinking he maintains.
“I’ve got this gene that I keep thinking the next day is going to be the best day yet,” Hill said.
Especially as he works with dancers, he shared that he is always learning more about how to make each performance better. It’s not just about the larger details like logistics or overall set designs, but how he teaches the dancers, he mentioned.
During a practice in their most recent season, he saw one of his dancers become frustrated for not being able to perform with perfection. Rather than letting his dancer remain frustrated, he immediately told them to stop. He then asked his dancer to stop getting in their own head and mentally make a decision that would allow the dancer to get it right the first time. After asking the dancer to resume, that very advice allowed Hill’s performer to get the moves down with perfection.
“I’m still learning things in the process, and it’s very satisfying to help someone realize their potential. The secret is figuring out how you can inspire others to want to do 1,000 percent every day,” Hill said.
From new dancers to unique showcases at the Orlando Ballet, the organization is anticipating a lot of support and turnout based on growing trends in the company’s recent years.
The performances Orlando Ballet sets to put on this season have been planned to ensure enjoyment from audiences of all types. Families who want a special evening together or individuals simply looking for a show of unique choreography can all find something to relate with this season, according to Hill.
“There has never been a more exciting time to come see Orlando Ballet and get involved as a friend and supporter. On this 11th season, the organization is in the best condition it’s ever been in,” Hill said.
