Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond: A Memoir of a Life in Dance

Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond: A Memoir

by Elizabeth McPherson

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13990 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	184 pages

FREE

In this captivating memoir, Broadway and Balanchine alum Edward Villella unveils his extraordinary journey as a dancer, choreographer, and artistic director. From his humble beginnings in Queens to his groundbreaking performances on Broadway and with the New York City Ballet, Villella's story is a testament to the transformative power of the arts.

Villella's passion for dance began at an early age. As a young boy, he would spend hours watching dance performances on television and dreaming of one day becoming a dancer himself. At the age of 16, he auditioned for the School of American Ballet and was accepted into the prestigious institution.

After graduating from SAB, Villella joined the New York City Ballet, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He became a principal dancer in 1960 and went on to create some of the most iconic roles in the company's repertoire, including Oberon in Balanchine's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and the title role in Jerome Robbins' "Fancy Free."

In addition to his work with NYCB, Villella also appeared in several Broadway productions, including "West Side Story," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Sweet Charity." He also choreographed several ballets for Broadway, including "Pippin" and "Dancin'."

In 1975, Villella was appointed artistic director of the Miami City Ballet. Under his leadership, the company became one of the most respected ballet companies in the world. Villella retired from Miami City Ballet in 2003, but he continues to teach and choreograph.

In "Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond," Villella shares his insights on the world of dance, from the rigorous training required to become a professional dancer to the challenges and rewards of performing on stage. He also offers a glimpse into the creative process, from the inception of an idea to the final performance.

Villella's memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in dance, Broadway, or the performing arts. It is a story of passion, perseverance, and the transformative power of art.

Praise for "Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond"

"Edward Villella's memoir is a fascinating and inspiring read. He is a true master of his craft, and his story is a testament to the power of dedication and passion." - Mikhail Baryshnikov

"Villella's memoir is a must-read for anyone interested in dance. It is a beautifully written and deeply personal account of one of the most influential dancers of our time." - The New York Times

"Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond is a captivating memoir that will transport readers into the glamorous world of dance. Villella's story is both inspiring and entertaining, and it is a must-read for anyone who loves the arts." - The Washington Post

About Edward Villella

Edward Villella was born in Queens, New York, in 1936. He began his dance training at the School of American Ballet and joined the New York City Ballet in 1957. He became a principal dancer in 1960 and went on to create some of the most iconic roles in the company's repertoire.

In addition to his work with NYCB, Villella also appeared in several Broadway productions, including "West Side Story," "Fiddler on the Roof," and "Sweet Charity." He also choreographed several ballets for Broadway, including "Pippin" and "Dancin'."

In 1975, Villella was appointed artistic director of the Miami City Ballet. Under his leadership, the company became one of the most respected ballet companies in the world. Villella retired from Miami City Ballet in 2003, but he continues to teach and choreograph.

Villella has received numerous awards for his work, including the Kennedy Center Honors, the National Medal of Arts, and the Dance Magazine Award. He is a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the French Legion of Honor.

Broadway, Balanchine, and Beyond: A Memoir

by Elizabeth McPherson

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	13990 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	184 pages

FREE