Millbrook Welcomes NYC BalletCollective for Residency in Holbrook Arts Center

Millbrook was excited to host the BalletCollective again this year. The dance company, which brings together artists and writers, as well as composers, principles, soloists, and corps members of the New York City Ballet to collaborate under the direction of Choreographer Troy Schumacher, was in residency at Millbrook from June 2 – 11.

Founded by Troy Schumacher in 2010, BalletCollective's works are intimate and reflective. The choreography is created with each dancer’s strengths and abilities in-mind. As individual group members, each is encouraged to express their individual thoughts, as well as embrace ideas that they may not otherwise outside of BalletCollective. The final choreography is unique in that it is the result of true collaboration, which is illustrated through the sometimes non-traditional movements, original music score, and different professional backgrounds of the dancers.

This year, the Residency featured a film shoot in Millbrook's Chelsea Morrison Theater with Bon Duke. Bon Duke has worked with clients such as Capezio, Chloe, Prabal, Zac Posen, and Proenza Schouler. The shoot utilized new lighting technology to help illustrate some of the inspirations behind the new ballet work.

The residency at Millbrook culminated with two open rehearsals on Friday, June 10, and Saturday, June 11, where BalletCollective friends and the Millbrook community were welcomed to view a raw glimmer of the work that has been created thus far.

“We have developed a wonderful friendship with BalletCollective, and really enjoy being mutually supportive of each other,” said Director of Dance Leighann Kowalsky. “In exchange for the sharing of our studio, these amazing dancers host master classes for Millbrook students, which provides our students an opportunity to work with professionals and ask questions about the industry to people who live it every day.”

BalletCollective’s 2016 season included their residency at Millbrook School, and will also include an upcoming residency at the Palm Theater in Telluride, CO, and culminating performances in New York City.

We are excited to continue following the success and creativity of the BalletCollective, as well as to welcome them back to campus in the fall to work with our young dancers.

 
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