IN BALANCHINE’S CLASSROOM takes us back to the glory years of George Balanchine’s New York City Ballet through the remembrances of his former dancers and their quest to fulfill the vision of a genius. Opening the door to his studio, Balanchine’s private laboratory, In Balanchine’s Classroom reveals new facets of the groundbreaking choreographer: taskmaster, mad scientist, and spiritual teacher. Today, as his former dancers teach a new generation, questions arise: what was the secret of his teaching? Can it be replicated? Directed by Connie Hochman, 2021, USA, 88 minutes.
Filled with never before seen archival footage of Balanchine at work during rehearsals, classes, and in preparation for his most seminal works, along with interviews with many of his adored and adoring dancers and those who try to carry on his legacy today, this is Balanchine as you have never seen him, and a film for anyone who loves ballet and the creative process.
Tickets are on sale now, HERE. Once payment is made your rental period will start immediately and last for five days. You can watch as many times as you want during that period. This is the “Kino Marquee” virtual theater, and you must open an account to purchase your ticket (it is easy). If you have previously used Kino Marquee when watching a film presented by Rivertown Film or anyone else, you already have an account name (probably your email address) and a password. If you have forgotten your password, create another using the “forgot password” link.
Cultural Partner: New York Theatre Ballet
Diana Byer
Photo by Betti Franceschi
Join the discussion on Zoom with Diana Byer in conversation with guests who learned and danced under George Balanchine. Diana Byer is the founder, president, and artistic director of New York Theatre Ballet and its training school, New York Theatre Ballet School. Her guests include Christine Redpath, a Soloist in the New York City Ballet, and now a Ballet Master; Antonia Franceschi, an alumnus of the New York City Ballet and a Time Out Award Winner for achievement in dance. Jean-Pierre Frohlich, who danced in the role of the Prince in George Balanchine’s Nutcracker for 3 years as a child, as an adult was a Soloist and then Ballet Master, and is currently Repertory Director for the New York City Ballet; and Cameron Grant, who recently retired after 37 years as a pianist with the New York City Ballet and who won an Emmy as a soloist in the Live From Lincoln Center broadcast, Balanchine at 100. You can find more information on these panelists at the bottom of the page, coming soon.
Register now for the Zoom discussion on Wednesday, February 16, at 6:00pm HERE.
“In mathematics, there was Newton; in psychology, there was Freud; and in American ballet, George Balanchine was a foundational genius.” Critic’s Pick! – Teo Bugbee, The New York Times
“Just fascinating… beautifully done. A feast for the eyes and ears. I couldn’t recommend it more highly. And if you’re not interested in dance, all the more reason to watch.” – David Sterritt, Films in Focus
“An insightful film with brilliant historic dance footage and interviews that make you wish you had been there.” – Alice Alyse, LA Dance Chronicle
“It also explores some essential truths — about art, about life, about the endless pursuit of both.” – Carol Cling, Alliance of Women Film Journalists
“A remembrance of the immeasurably influential genius by those who danced for him at the New York City Ballet and were inspired to eventually teach others, is a lovingly narrated, archivally rich tour.” – Robert Abele, Los Angeles Times
“Most uniquely, we are invited into Balanchine’s classroom, a space where exercises evolved into masterpieces, pupils nurtured into stars, and a man turned into a legend.” – Cherilyn J. Lee, Ballet Herald
“The history, the thoughts, and – as the title suggests – the classroom of a man who changed the landscape of ballet in the United States and the entire world. – Cherilyn J. Lee, Ballet Herald
