On April 29th, 2017, Studio West Dance Theatre presents the Olympia premier of the supernatural, time-honored classic, Giselle. Considered one of the great balletic works of our time, Giselle’s eternal themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness are played out in stunning simplicity, and appeal to 21st century audiences in the same way as the classics such as Hamlet or Romeo & Juliet.
Dancing the lead role of Giselle is Studio West’s own Katharine Cowan, and dancing opposite Katharine in the lead role of Albrecht is guest artist Joshua Grant, soloist with the Pacific Northwest Ballet. Joshua shares the following about Giselle “Mounting a major production like Giselle is a huge accomplishment for Studio West. Giselle represents the epitome of the Romantic Era ballet. The historical references from the choreography, style, and costumes, allow the dancers to grow immensely. They will not only be able to take this information into their future ballet endeavors, but also their academic and scholastic feats.”
Katharine, a senior at Olympia High School, has been accepted to the prestigious Joffrey Ballet Trainee Program in Chicago to continue her professional dance training next year. “The role of Giselle is iconic, and also extremely intimidating. It’s hard to ‘find yourself’ in a character that so many people have done before, so I researched the history of the ballet trying to find my own Giselle. I can’t say that I share a lot of characteristics with her, but I find myself inspired by her capacity for love and her ability to forgive. I hope I can convey this strength to the audience. Working with Joshua Grant has been truly inspirational. I have really enjoyed dancing/partnering with him, and hearing his insight into the characters and the history of the ballet.”
Joshua Grant feels the same enthusiasm in working with the Studio West dancers. “I am excited to be in Olympia working with Studio West. I have never felt more welcomed than I do being at Studio West. The teachers and students bring a great energy to all that they do in the studios and on stage. As a professional ballet dancer, it is inspiring to witness the joie de vivre of the students as they are the future generations of ballet.”
The story of Giselle is as relevant and relatable now as it was at its creation in 1841- a timeless tale of love, heartbreak and redemption. Come to the beautiful Kenneth J. Minnaert Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, April 29th to immerse yourself in the story of Giselle. Performances begin at 2:00 and 7:00 p.m. and tickets are available at the box office, (360)753-8586, olytix.org, or online at: http://www.washingtoncenter.org/organizer/studio-west-dance-academy/
To learn more about Joshua Grant: https://www.pnb.org/artist/joshua-grant/
For more information, please contact:
Studio West Dance Theatre
info@studiowestdanceacademy.com
1025 Black Lake Blvd. SW Suite 3B
Olympia, WA 98502
(360)956-9378
