Well, despite not writing for nearly 4 months this blog just celebrated it's 4 year anniversary! In July of 2007 I started this old thing for my ramblings, and here and there I've actually said something worthwhile. Though I've made sad attempts to revive regular posts, I really am going to make an effort this summer to get back in gear.
I have SO much to write about backed up in my brain from this past spring. It was my busiest dance season yet, and I had a lot of great opportunities working with over 5 *different* companies and performing almost every other weekend in various things.
On top of dancing, I've finished my Pilates mat certification and am teaching regularly as I continue with my equipment certification. I took my first trip to Europe (which was amazing), I had a major dance article published, and I've been working a whole lot.
I'll write in more detail on past things first, and then get back to the future with the next project...our August Performing in NY Showcase at Ailey. I've been co-directing these now for 3 years and we keep growing and growing. It's a lot of work to prep a show of 150+ dancers, but it's always fun.
Anyway, expect more posts soon :) Happy Summer!
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blog. Show all posts
Monday, July 25, 2011
Friday, April 1, 2011
An Update!
It's April. That's insane. So much is going on but I'm really going to try to get back to regular blogging...for real this time.
Next week marks 7 months since my ankle surgery, and it's only within the past few weeks that I've FINALLY felt back to 100%. PT started using iontopheresis on my foot, which is like being hooked up to a battery in order to force medication into the body. It sounds scary (and it sort of was the first time, being hooked up to electricity) but it is the first thing in 4 years of pain that has finally helped! Hooray!
Thanks to that I had my first major performance weekend post-surgery last weekend and it went well! It was our semiannual Performing in NY Showcase at Ailey, which I'm assistant director of. Not only was it a TON of work getting everything together (somehow these things continue to grow - which is wonderful! - but the work multiplies fast) but this was the first one of these that I was dancing as much as I was directing. I danced in the usual 2 ballet pieces my teacher puts together (excerpts from Raymonda and Sylvia this time), but I also did a new piece with Exit 12 Dance Company. AND I got the artistic pleasure of working on a piece with Australian aboriginal choreographer Ian Colless. What an interesting process! More on that in another post to come...
Now that that big show is done I'm onto the next big projects...
Next week I'm taking my Pilates mat certification exam! Providing I pass, I'll officially be certified this time next week :) I'm excited about that and have a few things up my sleeve to that end...I've also been teaching a regular floor barre class at Gold's Gym and have been subbing Pilates classes there. Teaching is growing on me more and more...
And the next big thing is my first lead role in a full-length story ballet! I'm super excited about this one...it's just with a small company called Ballet for Young Audiences - and obviously it's for kids - but the rehearsal process has really given me an opportunity to explore things I've never had the chance to. Also more on that in a post to come...the shows are the week of April 11-16, so it's getting close! Also in May I'm doing a new ballet with them also based on a poem about a water goblin :o
April 11-13, 2011
Queens Theater in the Park
10am and 11:30am
April 14, 2011
92nd Street Y
10:15am
April 16, 2011
Secret Theater
3pm
I'm also rehearsing with a modern choreographer as part of the Dance Theater Workshop studio series, which is also a fascinating process. It's not only physically challenging because I'm used to strict ballet, but it's an artistic challenge in the way we explore movement qualities. He's creating a solo on me that shows in June.
Also in June I'll be performing with a company I worked with last year - New American Youth Ballet - with live orchestra. And Exit 12 is working on performing on The Intrepid during Fleet Week. And I'm starting my reformer certification. And I'm trying for real to travel to Europe this spring/summer at some point. And I'm still working and doing workstudy. And I have a big article I wrote coming out this month in M Life Magazine, the custom publication of the MGM Hotels in Las Vegas.
There are even more things I've failed to mention but...as I post more I'll get into that more! Happy Back to Blogging :)
Next week marks 7 months since my ankle surgery, and it's only within the past few weeks that I've FINALLY felt back to 100%. PT started using iontopheresis on my foot, which is like being hooked up to a battery in order to force medication into the body. It sounds scary (and it sort of was the first time, being hooked up to electricity) but it is the first thing in 4 years of pain that has finally helped! Hooray!
Thanks to that I had my first major performance weekend post-surgery last weekend and it went well! It was our semiannual Performing in NY Showcase at Ailey, which I'm assistant director of. Not only was it a TON of work getting everything together (somehow these things continue to grow - which is wonderful! - but the work multiplies fast) but this was the first one of these that I was dancing as much as I was directing. I danced in the usual 2 ballet pieces my teacher puts together (excerpts from Raymonda and Sylvia this time), but I also did a new piece with Exit 12 Dance Company. AND I got the artistic pleasure of working on a piece with Australian aboriginal choreographer Ian Colless. What an interesting process! More on that in another post to come...
Now that that big show is done I'm onto the next big projects...
Next week I'm taking my Pilates mat certification exam! Providing I pass, I'll officially be certified this time next week :) I'm excited about that and have a few things up my sleeve to that end...I've also been teaching a regular floor barre class at Gold's Gym and have been subbing Pilates classes there. Teaching is growing on me more and more...
And the next big thing is my first lead role in a full-length story ballet! I'm super excited about this one...it's just with a small company called Ballet for Young Audiences - and obviously it's for kids - but the rehearsal process has really given me an opportunity to explore things I've never had the chance to. Also more on that in a post to come...the shows are the week of April 11-16, so it's getting close! Also in May I'm doing a new ballet with them also based on a poem about a water goblin :o
April 11-13, 2011
Queens Theater in the Park
10am and 11:30am
April 14, 2011
92nd Street Y
10:15am
April 16, 2011
Secret Theater
3pm
I'm also rehearsing with a modern choreographer as part of the Dance Theater Workshop studio series, which is also a fascinating process. It's not only physically challenging because I'm used to strict ballet, but it's an artistic challenge in the way we explore movement qualities. He's creating a solo on me that shows in June.
Also in June I'll be performing with a company I worked with last year - New American Youth Ballet - with live orchestra. And Exit 12 is working on performing on The Intrepid during Fleet Week. And I'm starting my reformer certification. And I'm trying for real to travel to Europe this spring/summer at some point. And I'm still working and doing workstudy. And I have a big article I wrote coming out this month in M Life Magazine, the custom publication of the MGM Hotels in Las Vegas.
There are even more things I've failed to mention but...as I post more I'll get into that more! Happy Back to Blogging :)
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Busy Busy Busy!
The blog has been slow because life has been moving f-a-s-t lately. So much going on and so much to update about...I'm basically back to full dancing on my foot even though I'm still in pain. I start rehearsals tomorrow with a new company for ballet shows in April and am hard at work preparing for the March Performing in NY Showcases I help direct. Plus I'm working towards my Pilates certification with a lot of practice teaching, and tonight I teach my first official New York City Ballet Workout floor class at a big gym! Exciting stuff.
More writing to come soon, I promise.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #1 - I Love It
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 FINISHES, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :) Today's the last day!
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Reason #1: I Love It
I love sharing my dance experiences. I love translating dance into words. I love giving a voice to dancers. I love hearing from readers and meeting new people. I love checking my stats and seeing that people care about what I have to say. I love connecting with other blogs. I love giving insight to a relatively closed off world. I love discovering new dance companies and giving them reviews they otherwise wouldn't get. I love having a natural outlet for my writing. I love dancing. And I love blogging.
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Reason #1: I Love It
I love sharing my dance experiences. I love translating dance into words. I love giving a voice to dancers. I love hearing from readers and meeting new people. I love checking my stats and seeing that people care about what I have to say. I love connecting with other blogs. I love giving insight to a relatively closed off world. I love discovering new dance companies and giving them reviews they otherwise wouldn't get. I love having a natural outlet for my writing. I love dancing. And I love blogging.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #2 - Redesign
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Image is everything. Since starting the blog 3 years ago I've redesigned a few times to make things more appealing and readable. Back in the day my tagline was "Off Center: the ramblings of a hopeless ballerina." Somehow the pathetic "hopeless" was dropped along the way and now I'm just "a New York dancer and writer." But besides the description, I did a major visual overhaul this summer of both the blog and my website. I *think* it's a lot better than it was.
My tweets and other websites are pretty easily accessible up top, and the archives and tags are all organized on the right. I'm using a lot more photos and videos in my post and have better formatting (though Blogger is still finicky at times...). I removed the gigantic old top banner I used to have with my photo (tacky!) and opted for bright simplicity. I hope it's easily navigable and fun to look at while reading (some other blogs I know are b-o-r-i-n-g). And it coincides with my Twitter and main site, all pink and black and white :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Image is everything. Since starting the blog 3 years ago I've redesigned a few times to make things more appealing and readable. Back in the day my tagline was "Off Center: the ramblings of a hopeless ballerina." Somehow the pathetic "hopeless" was dropped along the way and now I'm just "a New York dancer and writer." But besides the description, I did a major visual overhaul this summer of both the blog and my website. I *think* it's a lot better than it was.
My tweets and other websites are pretty easily accessible up top, and the archives and tags are all organized on the right. I'm using a lot more photos and videos in my post and have better formatting (though Blogger is still finicky at times...). I removed the gigantic old top banner I used to have with my photo (tacky!) and opted for bright simplicity. I hope it's easily navigable and fun to look at while reading (some other blogs I know are b-o-r-i-n-g). And it coincides with my Twitter and main site, all pink and black and white :)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Help! Voting Round of Top Dance Blogs 2010 Has Begun!
In case you missed it, I'm in the final running for Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 in the Dancer Musings category AND the Top 20 category.
Many thanks to all who commented to help me get through the first round - but now's when I really need your support!
If you can, please take a sec to head over to Dance Advantage here and vote! You can only vote once for one blog in each category...so be sure to click "Off Center" for Dancer Musings and Top 20! I was in 3rd place for both categories at the end of the commenting round...so let's make this a winner :)
I've been posting 7 reasons why you should vote for my blog here, so take a peak at those. More to come this week.
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Reason #1: I Love It
Happy Snow Day Voting!
Many thanks to all who commented to help me get through the first round - but now's when I really need your support!
If you can, please take a sec to head over to Dance Advantage here and vote! You can only vote once for one blog in each category...so be sure to click "Off Center" for Dancer Musings and Top 20! I was in 3rd place for both categories at the end of the commenting round...so let's make this a winner :)
I've been posting 7 reasons why you should vote for my blog here, so take a peak at those. More to come this week.
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
Reason #2: Redesign
Reason #1: I Love It
Happy Snow Day Voting!
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #3 - Endorsements
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
A little self-serving bragging just for one sec (to convince you to vote! A good reason :)...
Vanity Fair has twice given a shoutout to the blog, calling it "one of the precious sources of inspiration" and "sprightly."
Career Transition for Dancers had me as a guest speaker for a seminar called, "The Art of Blogging" last year.
Media Bistro quotes me in an article about arts criticism, and The Huffington Post mentions my "prominent blog."
And even though the NY Times didn't mention the blog, I have to include that link here just because :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
Reason #3: Endorsements
A little self-serving bragging just for one sec (to convince you to vote! A good reason :)...
Vanity Fair has twice given a shoutout to the blog, calling it "one of the precious sources of inspiration" and "sprightly."
Career Transition for Dancers had me as a guest speaker for a seminar called, "The Art of Blogging" last year.
Media Bistro quotes me in an article about arts criticism, and The Huffington Post mentions my "prominent blog."
And even though the NY Times didn't mention the blog, I have to include that link here just because :)
Sunday, December 26, 2010
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #4 - Writing Quality
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
So, maybe this is subjective but...outside of dance, my second career and passion is writing. I have a BA degree in Communication Arts (focus in journalism) and a Masters degree in Publishing. I've written about dance for Pointe Magazine, Dance Teacher Magazine, Movmnt Magazine, ExploreDance.com, and numerous other dance websites. I took a writing class with a NY Times dance critic, was the Features/Arts editor of my college paper, and interned at 4 magazines (including The New Yorker).
Even though blogging is meant to be casual and quick, quality should not be sacrificed. I am by no means perfect - most of the time I'm blogging in a hurry and forget to go back to edit - but I think I've got a little credible edge there...?
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
Reason #4: Writing Quality
So, maybe this is subjective but...outside of dance, my second career and passion is writing. I have a BA degree in Communication Arts (focus in journalism) and a Masters degree in Publishing. I've written about dance for Pointe Magazine, Dance Teacher Magazine, Movmnt Magazine, ExploreDance.com, and numerous other dance websites. I took a writing class with a NY Times dance critic, was the Features/Arts editor of my college paper, and interned at 4 magazines (including The New Yorker).
Even though blogging is meant to be casual and quick, quality should not be sacrificed. I am by no means perfect - most of the time I'm blogging in a hurry and forget to go back to edit - but I think I've got a little credible edge there...?
Saturday, December 25, 2010
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #5 - Community
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
There's no doubt that the dance world is small, as is the tight-knit online dance network. As a blogger, dancer, writer, teacher, assistant director, and fan, I really try to be active in our community. I link to fellow dance bloggers frequently and list them to the right. I tweet like crazy and follow/am followed by dance tweeps around the world (Daniil Simkin has me "listed" as a colleague :o ). I edit and put out a monthly e-newsletter with my ballet teacher for 3,000+ subscribers.
In real life, I know and am friends with many fellow NYC dance bloggers in person. I attend many major dance events in the city and do my best to report back on them here or review them for people out of town. I've worked and trained with amazing dancers and friends who are now all over the world, and I try to use those connections to bring interesting outside stories to the blog (like these interviews). And I really work towards spreading the word about our beautiful art form and dance communitity.
(I thought this would be a good one to talk about today since it's Christmas! Merry Christmas to all my friends, fellow bloggers, and readers out there :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Reason #5: Community
There's no doubt that the dance world is small, as is the tight-knit online dance network. As a blogger, dancer, writer, teacher, assistant director, and fan, I really try to be active in our community. I link to fellow dance bloggers frequently and list them to the right. I tweet like crazy and follow/am followed by dance tweeps around the world (Daniil Simkin has me "listed" as a colleague :o ). I edit and put out a monthly e-newsletter with my ballet teacher for 3,000+ subscribers.
In real life, I know and am friends with many fellow NYC dance bloggers in person. I attend many major dance events in the city and do my best to report back on them here or review them for people out of town. I've worked and trained with amazing dancers and friends who are now all over the world, and I try to use those connections to bring interesting outside stories to the blog (like these interviews). And I really work towards spreading the word about our beautiful art form and dance communitity.
(I thought this would be a good one to talk about today since it's Christmas! Merry Christmas to all my friends, fellow bloggers, and readers out there :)
Friday, December 24, 2010
7 Reasons to Vote for My Blog: #6 - No Ads
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Guess what? Ballet is not a moneymaker. Journalism is not a moneymaker. So...dance writing/journalism/blogging is NOT a moneymaker. Yes, it's hard to spend so much time on the blog without getting paid. Outside of my psycho-busy ballet life I have a 30-hour per week job to pay the rent. But advertising is annoying. I don't want to sell anything, and I don't want your money. I want your vote ;)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
Reason #6: No Ads
Guess what? Ballet is not a moneymaker. Journalism is not a moneymaker. So...dance writing/journalism/blogging is NOT a moneymaker. Yes, it's hard to spend so much time on the blog without getting paid. Outside of my psycho-busy ballet life I have a 30-hour per week job to pay the rent. But advertising is annoying. I don't want to sell anything, and I don't want your money. I want your vote ;)
Thursday, December 23, 2010
7 Reasons To Vote for My Blog: #7 - I'm Ancient
As the voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010 approaches, I thought I'd do a post a day for a week giving you reasons to go ahead and VOTE FOR ME :)
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
As my overview post earlier today explains, this blog has been around. I started blogging back in July 2007. And with the exception of dance critic Eva Yaa Asantewa's blog InfiniteBody (started in April 2007), I'm the oldest blog on the Top 20 List. I've been mostly consistent through those years, with a brief haitus during my NY Times era (someone else was chronicling my life, so I thought I'd take a break...). Doesn't sticking through the prehistoric ages of dance blogging mean anything ;) ?
Vote for Off Center
Reason #7: I'm Ancient
As my overview post earlier today explains, this blog has been around. I started blogging back in July 2007. And with the exception of dance critic Eva Yaa Asantewa's blog InfiniteBody (started in April 2007), I'm the oldest blog on the Top 20 List. I've been mostly consistent through those years, with a brief haitus during my NY Times era (someone else was chronicling my life, so I thought I'd take a break...). Doesn't sticking through the prehistoric ages of dance blogging mean anything ;) ?
Welcome New Readers :)
 |
| The photo that inspired my blog title. Getting ready for Balanchine's Divertimento No. 15 at BAE 2007. Photo by the wonderful Rosalie O'Connor. |
I started Off Center back in the summer of 2007. I was 18, had just completed "ballet school" at BAE here in NYC and was starting my professional dance career, my final semester of college, and my first semester of grad school. And wow, a lot has happened since then...
Back then, there were very few dance blogs that existed. I was trying to start a freelance writing career after interning at Pointe Magazine, a dance PR agency, and a few other magazines - and I thought blogging might be a good way to keep myself churning out content. Basically the only other dance blogs (in New York, at least) were The Winger, Swan Lake Samba Girl, Oberon's Grove, Dancing Perfectly Free, and Great Dance. We all met in person for the first time in January of 2008 when Cedar Lake Dance became really the first company to invite bloggers and take notice that this was where the media world was headed.
 |
| (Ok I'm searching everywhere to find the picture we took that night but...this one was a few weeks later at a gathering hosted by Movmnt Magazine...) |
That fall I wrote my senior thesis on dance journalism in print and online, and it's so amusing to read it now and see just how much has evolved in technology in just 3 short years!
Personally, a lot has come from starting the blog. I've gotten writing gigs from it and the opportunity to see more dance in NYC than I ever could've imagined. I've met some wonderful people (in real life and online) and have had the chance to interview inspiring dancers. I've been able to share some life highlights...
-Graduation from college and grad school
-My first professional ballet job (and many thereafter)
-The joys of performing 2 years at Radio City
...and many many more.
If you want to take a look back, the archives to the right are pretty mangeable. I'm in the process of trying to go through and label old posts that I never categorized...but that may take a while. There's also a feature on the left bottom side of the page called "Life at a Glance" that has some big topics already broken down (and also needs to be updated...).
I also am super active on Twitter, if you want to follow me there :)
And here's my full website with my bio, etc.
A huge thanks for reading! I so appreciate anyone who sticks with me to read more than one of my ramblings...
Good News & Bad News
First the good news...
Off Center has made it to the final voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010! I'm entered in the Dancer Musings category, competing now against Miami City Ballet dancer Rebecca King's blog, Tendus Under a Palm Tree (we're both Rock School alumni!), and Norweigen ballet dancer Henrik's blog, Tights and Tiaras. And then I'm also in the Top 20 category, currently at #3! Exciting!
A HUGE thank you to friends, family, and loyal blog readers who commented on my initial competition post and helped me make it through the comment round! I truly appreciate everyone's effors and support for the blog...it means a lot! But now I'll need more help :) Starting Monday December 27 at 10am EST the final voting round begins. You'll be able to vote only once, for one blog in each category. So...consider Off Center! I'll post voting details and links as soon as they're available, but just a heads up :) You can see the list of competitors in other categories here (it's fun to explore new blogs!)
The bad news...
After taking a week and a half of from dancing per PT's orders, the stupid foot is still hurting. Last night my physical therapist decided it may now be peroneal tendinitis, and so he's going to try to treat it as if that's what the continued pain is until I see the doctor again in January. But...ugh! I'm teninitis = inflammation. But I don't know what I'm doing to keep it inflamed if I'm not dancing?! The solution for this is rest and ice, which I've been doing for way too long now. So frustrating to not have this nearly 4 year old problem solved even post-surgery :/ Whatever - my Christmas present to myself is taking ballet class on Christmas night!
Off Center has made it to the final voting round of Dance Advantage's Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs 2010! I'm entered in the Dancer Musings category, competing now against Miami City Ballet dancer Rebecca King's blog, Tendus Under a Palm Tree (we're both Rock School alumni!), and Norweigen ballet dancer Henrik's blog, Tights and Tiaras. And then I'm also in the Top 20 category, currently at #3! Exciting!
A HUGE thank you to friends, family, and loyal blog readers who commented on my initial competition post and helped me make it through the comment round! I truly appreciate everyone's effors and support for the blog...it means a lot! But now I'll need more help :) Starting Monday December 27 at 10am EST the final voting round begins. You'll be able to vote only once, for one blog in each category. So...consider Off Center! I'll post voting details and links as soon as they're available, but just a heads up :) You can see the list of competitors in other categories here (it's fun to explore new blogs!)
The bad news...
After taking a week and a half of from dancing per PT's orders, the stupid foot is still hurting. Last night my physical therapist decided it may now be peroneal tendinitis, and so he's going to try to treat it as if that's what the continued pain is until I see the doctor again in January. But...ugh! I'm teninitis = inflammation. But I don't know what I'm doing to keep it inflamed if I'm not dancing?! The solution for this is rest and ice, which I've been doing for way too long now. So frustrating to not have this nearly 4 year old problem solved even post-surgery :/ Whatever - my Christmas present to myself is taking ballet class on Christmas night!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Help! Reader’s Choice Top Dance Blogs of 2010
So...I've been blogging here on Off Center since the summer of 2007. Yes, I've taken time off. Yes, I've had some slow times (ahem, lately...). But I really feel like the blog has been a big part of my dancing life over the years.You've been with me through beginnings, Nutcrackers, graduations, summer intensives, performance reviews, rats and realities, bear heads and Santa beards, the best time of my life, and the worst. Even people from The New York Times and Vanity Fair have been supportive. I am forever grateful for the amazing people I've met through the blog, the opportunities that have come up, and the kind words I've heard in response to my experiences.
But now I need YOUR help...
Dance Advantage is hosting the Reader's Choice Top Dance Blogs of 2010 and I'm entering in the Dancer Musings Category.
Here's the deal: the more comments on this post, the better. If you comment here showing your support and I'm one of the top 10 most supported, I enter the voting round after December 22. Voting takes place December 27-30. So...comment away :)
For your (or mostly my) enjoyment - a photo timeline of the blog coming soon...
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Comments Are Back
When I stopped blogging for so long I started getting TONS of commenting spam so I turned off comments. Forgot to fix that when I restarted the blog last week but was reminded of it yesterday so...they're fixed :) Comment away! (though I like emails too :)
Writing at 2am because woke up in serious pain...pain pills please...
Monday, June 2, 2008
It's Nights Like These
It's nights like these that make me so thankful I'm immersed in the dance world of New York City!
After a super long Monday of week 2 ABT intensive (and after taking an additional ballet class later since we got out early...have I mentioned I'm an overachiever? It's a sickness.) I went to the opening of Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet's spring season. It was such a nice evening even though I'm beat, haha.
Many thanks to the company for inviting the bloggers. I was joined by Evan, Ariel, Philip, Matt, and the newest blogger (and, more importantly, New York Times critic) Claudia - all in the front row. It was great to see them all there and catch up after I missed the last Cedar Lake blogger meet-up when they did Glassy Essence. Plus I saw a few other dancer friends at the mini reception after the show. Good times.
The program was very interesting...I'm writing about it for ExploreDance, so details to come soon. And during intermissions there was lots of schmoozing and conversation amongst the packed audience since it was opening night. The program runs through next weekend, so check it out if you have time.
More about ABT the next few days, plus I might be attending a book party for The New Yorker this week even though my internship finished, AND photos from yesterday's little showcase thing coming soon.
After a super long Monday of week 2 ABT intensive (and after taking an additional ballet class later since we got out early...have I mentioned I'm an overachiever? It's a sickness.) I went to the opening of Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet's spring season. It was such a nice evening even though I'm beat, haha.
Many thanks to the company for inviting the bloggers. I was joined by Evan, Ariel, Philip, Matt, and the newest blogger (and, more importantly, New York Times critic) Claudia - all in the front row. It was great to see them all there and catch up after I missed the last Cedar Lake blogger meet-up when they did Glassy Essence. Plus I saw a few other dancer friends at the mini reception after the show. Good times.
The program was very interesting...I'm writing about it for ExploreDance, so details to come soon. And during intermissions there was lots of schmoozing and conversation amongst the packed audience since it was opening night. The program runs through next weekend, so check it out if you have time.
More about ABT the next few days, plus I might be attending a book party for The New Yorker this week even though my internship finished, AND photos from yesterday's little showcase thing coming soon.
Sunday, May 25, 2008
a novel length update on everything else
So I finally had some time tonight (admittedly, while killing time at work before my next assignment...) to write about recent events I've missed blogging about. There's a LOT to say and I apologize for the length and disorganization, haha. If you care to read it all, great. If you don't, I totally don't blame you - it's all a little insane, haha. But it helps me just to get it all down anyway. So here it is: a novel length update on everything that's been going on that I promised to describe in an older post:
-end of my writing on dance course
As you know, last month I took a 6 week Writing on Dance Course with NY Times Dance Critic Claudia La Rocco at DTW. It was one of the most interesting and exciting classes I've taken in my intense college/graduate education thus far, and it didn't even count for anything except my own enrichment.
It was so great. Each week we had an assignment to see a show and write about it in a different way - in a specific word count, bending certain rules, etc. It really got my creative juices flowing and got me so much more engaged in reviewing performances than I had been previously. From the conversations and the workshopping of different people's writing I started to notice different aspects both of dance and of criticism that are really exciting to me. I was really inspired each week and since it has ended I've missed it! Haha I guess that's a bit odd but not really...I'm super quiet by nature and didn't say much during the discussions, but taking it all in - everyone's opinions, creativity, passion for dance from all perspectives - was such a unique and great experience. I hope DTW continues to offer that kind of course because there is little outside opportunty to disucss the art form on that level (which is a shame).
I churned out quite a few reviews during the course and definitely think it has improved my writing compared to those I wrote beforehand.
-numerous recent auditions
Ah yes, spring is audition season. Ballet company -type auditions were early this year but I skipped out on most of those, largely because I've made up my mind that it's not worth it to me to be an unpaid, overworked, under-performed (made up word, yes) apprentice or student with a ballet company in a smaller city or town when I can do that and SO much more here in New York City. I have too much to be thankful for in my life here and now that what I once wanted makes no sense anymore.
SO I have been only doing auditions for things around here. As you saw from previous posts, the most successful one thus far has been for Radio City's Christmas Spectacular. I'm super excited about that and I want it SO much, but I won't know for sure until July. I'm trying to be optimistic (a concept often lost to me, unfortunately) without getting my hopes up too much.
-my "choreographic debut" with the high school kids i taught
The kids I was teaching all this semester did really well with their performance. It was my official little 'NY choreographic debut' and I was pleased with it. I wasn't able to make it to their dress rehearsal so I was a bit nervous for them the night of the show, but it went really really well. I was proud of them and it felt good to see my work completed with lights and costumes and the works. They brought me up onstage to introduce me and give me flowers - a nice touch :). Teaching has really been a side thing for me to this point but it's definitely something (one of MANY things, good God) I'd like to pursue eventually.
-seeing my old studio's spring performance
Since I am still in charge of their newsletter even though I finished an issue just recently, I got to attend my old studio's spring performance. I'm working on the next issue for June and had to squeeze in time to catch the show between everything else going on, but I'm glad I did. All my former classmates were wonderful. It's so funny to watch like that as an outsider when I was once so involved myself (the past 2 years). But I wasn't really nostalgic or wishing I was a part of it this time, which is odd. It felt right to be in the audience cheering them on and writing about it like I've been doing for a while now. They deserve the spotlight.
-additional blogging opportunity
Amongst new endeavors for the summer, a new website has asked me to blog for them. I know, I continue to add projects endlessly but I do try to see them through and I only take things I think are worth it (okay, maybe I say yes to everything that comes at me, but it's all worth it so far). DanceChannelTv.com recently launched and I'll be writing for them. It's a social network kind of thing along with dance videos and such. Interesting...check it out.
-not getting one of my dream jobs
This was a big one. Being the obsessive person that I am, I'm constantly on both audition and job websites looking for my next opportunity. Since I just completed my internship at The New Yorker, my 4th magazine internship and 6th internship overall, I've come to the logical conclusion that my days of unpaid labor are largely over and done with, haha. And what's the next step after that and graduation?
Well, it SHOULD be a full time job, I suppose. Unless you're only 19 and in graduate school. But that didn't stop me from applying to the most ideal entry level job ever for my situation. I don't want to specify exact details just yet, but it's exactly the position I would want in publishing...but maybe, like, 5 years from now.
I was asked in for an interview (a story in itself...) and I seemed to have a decent change of getting it. The problem: it would have meant a full time job, which means no time for dancing. The long week I waited to hear back about the job practically killed me - on the one hand, I wanted it so bad because it's exactly what I've been preparing for and a great step towards my one career. On the other, much stronger hand I couldn't bear the thought of sitting at a desk full time at this point in my life, and giving up my first love. No I could never quit dancing all together, but basically getting this job would have meant (to me, anyway) the end of my pursuit of a professional career.
Many have told me this wouldn't have been the case and no decision means forever and blah blah blah, but it was tough for me to consider. Luckily, or unluckily depending on my mood, I didn't get the job. I'm glad for the moment because I can continue trying to dance for now, but part of me is a bit lost in thinking what will come next. I've been going crazy over this one...more details someday when I get the courage, haha.
-being interviewed for the big website mediabistro.com
MediaBistro.com, one of the sites I check regularly for publishing jobs (ironically, where I found the aforementioned failed dream job listing) contacted me for an interview to be posted on their site. I found it kind of humorous honestly, because I feel like that site is so professional and high status and I'm just a (relative) newbie to the media industry. BUT the writer spoke with me about arts journalism and starting a career in the field. It was really interesting to hear myself talk about this, haha, because I'm still navigating my way and trying to launch myself in this dying area. I'll be interested to see the final article in a few weeks, and will post a link when it's up.
-official college graduation ceremony (and getting sick beforehand!)
Just as a funny milestone of the past month: I went to my official Marymount Manhattan College graduation ceremony at Avery Fisher Hall (!) a few weeks ago, even though I officially graduated months ago. It was amusing for many reasons, but mostly because I got really sick that morning for no apparent reason. It was not fun, but funny in hindsight. I was quite miserable the whole day, which was unfortunate because that's one of the first "real life" milestones I've experienced. My high school graduation was a joke because it was held in a ballet studio with 4 other graduates. Prom was equally lame. Moving away to college was unmomentous because I had been away since age 14. So finishing and sitting through the ceremony was kind of big, haha. I felt like I was at Hogwarts or something with all the professors in uniforms and such. Maybe I'm revealing a bit too much of myself in this post, hahaha but I don't care.
-other teachers i've been taking class with
Since my fabulous teacher went away all this month I started branching out and taking ballet class with numerous teachers I haven't experienced before...and I really like them! Different styles, different approaches...but good classes. The famous Madame Darvash was teaching at a small open studio and few people knew about these classes, so it was an extreme privilege to learn from her with a very small group. She gave me a ballet book she swears by to "study" and taught me A LOT about her way of seeing placement and weight distribution and such in a very short time. She's great. As are many of the others I've been taking with and plan to continue with after ABT's intensive the next 3 weeks.
-recent & upcoming performances
Last week was the little play I was in, which went well. Next Sunday is our student showcase, and I'm doing a variation from Le Corsaire, which I just saw ABT do (wonderfully). We're also doing some group pieces...should be fun. Also at the end of ABT's intensive we have 2 studio showings, but won't know what we're performing until rehearsals get underway this week.
Well, there you have it...a novel about the past month. There's probably a ton of things I've missed and should have added, or tons I should have left out (haha) but it is what it is. The rate my life is going right now is insane and hard to keep up with, but I'm enjoying every minute. Thanks for keeping up with my blog despite some lag time :)
PS- If you made it all the way through this crazy long post, I admire you! Haha
Happy Memorial Day to all, and I'll be starting at ABT's Collegiate Intensive on Tuesday so look for posts all about that soon.
-end of my writing on dance course
As you know, last month I took a 6 week Writing on Dance Course with NY Times Dance Critic Claudia La Rocco at DTW. It was one of the most interesting and exciting classes I've taken in my intense college/graduate education thus far, and it didn't even count for anything except my own enrichment.
It was so great. Each week we had an assignment to see a show and write about it in a different way - in a specific word count, bending certain rules, etc. It really got my creative juices flowing and got me so much more engaged in reviewing performances than I had been previously. From the conversations and the workshopping of different people's writing I started to notice different aspects both of dance and of criticism that are really exciting to me. I was really inspired each week and since it has ended I've missed it! Haha I guess that's a bit odd but not really...I'm super quiet by nature and didn't say much during the discussions, but taking it all in - everyone's opinions, creativity, passion for dance from all perspectives - was such a unique and great experience. I hope DTW continues to offer that kind of course because there is little outside opportunty to disucss the art form on that level (which is a shame).
I churned out quite a few reviews during the course and definitely think it has improved my writing compared to those I wrote beforehand.
-numerous recent auditions
Ah yes, spring is audition season. Ballet company -type auditions were early this year but I skipped out on most of those, largely because I've made up my mind that it's not worth it to me to be an unpaid, overworked, under-performed (made up word, yes) apprentice or student with a ballet company in a smaller city or town when I can do that and SO much more here in New York City. I have too much to be thankful for in my life here and now that what I once wanted makes no sense anymore.
SO I have been only doing auditions for things around here. As you saw from previous posts, the most successful one thus far has been for Radio City's Christmas Spectacular. I'm super excited about that and I want it SO much, but I won't know for sure until July. I'm trying to be optimistic (a concept often lost to me, unfortunately) without getting my hopes up too much.
-my "choreographic debut" with the high school kids i taught
The kids I was teaching all this semester did really well with their performance. It was my official little 'NY choreographic debut' and I was pleased with it. I wasn't able to make it to their dress rehearsal so I was a bit nervous for them the night of the show, but it went really really well. I was proud of them and it felt good to see my work completed with lights and costumes and the works. They brought me up onstage to introduce me and give me flowers - a nice touch :). Teaching has really been a side thing for me to this point but it's definitely something (one of MANY things, good God) I'd like to pursue eventually.
-seeing my old studio's spring performance
Since I am still in charge of their newsletter even though I finished an issue just recently, I got to attend my old studio's spring performance. I'm working on the next issue for June and had to squeeze in time to catch the show between everything else going on, but I'm glad I did. All my former classmates were wonderful. It's so funny to watch like that as an outsider when I was once so involved myself (the past 2 years). But I wasn't really nostalgic or wishing I was a part of it this time, which is odd. It felt right to be in the audience cheering them on and writing about it like I've been doing for a while now. They deserve the spotlight.
-additional blogging opportunity
Amongst new endeavors for the summer, a new website has asked me to blog for them. I know, I continue to add projects endlessly but I do try to see them through and I only take things I think are worth it (okay, maybe I say yes to everything that comes at me, but it's all worth it so far). DanceChannelTv.com recently launched and I'll be writing for them. It's a social network kind of thing along with dance videos and such. Interesting...check it out.
-not getting one of my dream jobs
This was a big one. Being the obsessive person that I am, I'm constantly on both audition and job websites looking for my next opportunity. Since I just completed my internship at The New Yorker, my 4th magazine internship and 6th internship overall, I've come to the logical conclusion that my days of unpaid labor are largely over and done with, haha. And what's the next step after that and graduation?
Well, it SHOULD be a full time job, I suppose. Unless you're only 19 and in graduate school. But that didn't stop me from applying to the most ideal entry level job ever for my situation. I don't want to specify exact details just yet, but it's exactly the position I would want in publishing...but maybe, like, 5 years from now.
I was asked in for an interview (a story in itself...) and I seemed to have a decent change of getting it. The problem: it would have meant a full time job, which means no time for dancing. The long week I waited to hear back about the job practically killed me - on the one hand, I wanted it so bad because it's exactly what I've been preparing for and a great step towards my one career. On the other, much stronger hand I couldn't bear the thought of sitting at a desk full time at this point in my life, and giving up my first love. No I could never quit dancing all together, but basically getting this job would have meant (to me, anyway) the end of my pursuit of a professional career.
Many have told me this wouldn't have been the case and no decision means forever and blah blah blah, but it was tough for me to consider. Luckily, or unluckily depending on my mood, I didn't get the job. I'm glad for the moment because I can continue trying to dance for now, but part of me is a bit lost in thinking what will come next. I've been going crazy over this one...more details someday when I get the courage, haha.
-being interviewed for the big website mediabistro.com
MediaBistro.com, one of the sites I check regularly for publishing jobs (ironically, where I found the aforementioned failed dream job listing) contacted me for an interview to be posted on their site. I found it kind of humorous honestly, because I feel like that site is so professional and high status and I'm just a (relative) newbie to the media industry. BUT the writer spoke with me about arts journalism and starting a career in the field. It was really interesting to hear myself talk about this, haha, because I'm still navigating my way and trying to launch myself in this dying area. I'll be interested to see the final article in a few weeks, and will post a link when it's up.
-official college graduation ceremony (and getting sick beforehand!)
Just as a funny milestone of the past month: I went to my official Marymount Manhattan College graduation ceremony at Avery Fisher Hall (!) a few weeks ago, even though I officially graduated months ago. It was amusing for many reasons, but mostly because I got really sick that morning for no apparent reason. It was not fun, but funny in hindsight. I was quite miserable the whole day, which was unfortunate because that's one of the first "real life" milestones I've experienced. My high school graduation was a joke because it was held in a ballet studio with 4 other graduates. Prom was equally lame. Moving away to college was unmomentous because I had been away since age 14. So finishing and sitting through the ceremony was kind of big, haha. I felt like I was at Hogwarts or something with all the professors in uniforms and such. Maybe I'm revealing a bit too much of myself in this post, hahaha but I don't care.
-other teachers i've been taking class with
Since my fabulous teacher went away all this month I started branching out and taking ballet class with numerous teachers I haven't experienced before...and I really like them! Different styles, different approaches...but good classes. The famous Madame Darvash was teaching at a small open studio and few people knew about these classes, so it was an extreme privilege to learn from her with a very small group. She gave me a ballet book she swears by to "study" and taught me A LOT about her way of seeing placement and weight distribution and such in a very short time. She's great. As are many of the others I've been taking with and plan to continue with after ABT's intensive the next 3 weeks.
-recent & upcoming performances
Last week was the little play I was in, which went well. Next Sunday is our student showcase, and I'm doing a variation from Le Corsaire, which I just saw ABT do (wonderfully). We're also doing some group pieces...should be fun. Also at the end of ABT's intensive we have 2 studio showings, but won't know what we're performing until rehearsals get underway this week.
Well, there you have it...a novel about the past month. There's probably a ton of things I've missed and should have added, or tons I should have left out (haha) but it is what it is. The rate my life is going right now is insane and hard to keep up with, but I'm enjoying every minute. Thanks for keeping up with my blog despite some lag time :)
PS- If you made it all the way through this crazy long post, I admire you! Haha
Happy Memorial Day to all, and I'll be starting at ABT's Collegiate Intensive on Tuesday so look for posts all about that soon.
Saturday, May 24, 2008
new blogger
New York Times dance critic and teacher of the Writing on Dance Course I took last month Claudia La Rocco has joined the blogosphere!
Check it out here.
Interesting conversations are already developing...I'm looking forward to adding this to my daily list of blogs to read :)
Check it out here.
Interesting conversations are already developing...I'm looking forward to adding this to my daily list of blogs to read :)
Thursday, May 22, 2008
an update
Again I'm slow on the blogging front...
The other day I had my call back for Radio City and it went really well...they didn't make any more cuts, and there were only 30 of us left. They said there's lots of jobs because they're adding an arena touring company in addition to the NY show and those in other cities, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. They won't tell us for sure until July! Can't wait that long...wish me luck...it would be such a great opportunity. Either way I was happy to make it that far in the audition...I actually had to SING at the call back, which I DO NOT do, haha. It brought me back to my middle school days when I was in chorus at school and I used to lip sync and let my friends with loud voices do the singing, haha. But I guess it went okay...they were more concerned with presentation than a good singing voice, so we'll see. I can fake it, haha.
Yesterday was opening night of the little play I'm dancing in this week. It went well...it's a pretty small theater but cozy. We had a nice audience response last night so that's good. It runs tonight and tomorrow and then that project is done.
What else...I have lots to update about but still don't have much time...I start ABT's intensive next Tuesday. I'm in a student showcase the following Sunday at Ailey. ABT has a mini-showing at the end. Dance Critics Conference coming up. Amongst other things.
Trying to get back on the blogging bandwagon. Bear with me!
The other day I had my call back for Radio City and it went really well...they didn't make any more cuts, and there were only 30 of us left. They said there's lots of jobs because they're adding an arena touring company in addition to the NY show and those in other cities, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. They won't tell us for sure until July! Can't wait that long...wish me luck...it would be such a great opportunity. Either way I was happy to make it that far in the audition...I actually had to SING at the call back, which I DO NOT do, haha. It brought me back to my middle school days when I was in chorus at school and I used to lip sync and let my friends with loud voices do the singing, haha. But I guess it went okay...they were more concerned with presentation than a good singing voice, so we'll see. I can fake it, haha.
Yesterday was opening night of the little play I'm dancing in this week. It went well...it's a pretty small theater but cozy. We had a nice audience response last night so that's good. It runs tonight and tomorrow and then that project is done.
What else...I have lots to update about but still don't have much time...I start ABT's intensive next Tuesday. I'm in a student showcase the following Sunday at Ailey. ABT has a mini-showing at the end. Dance Critics Conference coming up. Amongst other things.
Trying to get back on the blogging bandwagon. Bear with me!
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
small world!
I'm way behind on blogging and have many things to post about when I get the time, but I had to share this right away...
Since my usual teacher is away for the month, I've been taking class with some other teachers here and there (a separate post will come to tell you of the wonderful torture I received from Madame Darvash...), and this week I've been taking form Judy Rice.
I come out of the dressing room to stretch right before going into class and I see Judy sitting and talking with a very dancer-looking guy. I do a double take, and he's wearing a Winger t-shirt. Then I remember a post on The Winger a few months ago about when Judy Rice first came to the city to teach.
And who wrote that post?
Our very own Matthew Murphy, whom I have been in contact with A LOT online through the Winger and through our work for movmnt but I have still never met in person. We've missed each other at blogger meet-ups and had yet to be introduced face to face.
Until today!
As I pulled out the barre and stretched my (bad) Achilles he walked past and we were both like, um...finally he asked what my name was and we realized it was indeed our time to meet. Too funny! He only stayed for barre so we didn't get a chance to talk or anything afterwards, but it was an ironic way to finally meet. Small dance world!
Nice to meet you Matt!
Since my usual teacher is away for the month, I've been taking class with some other teachers here and there (a separate post will come to tell you of the wonderful torture I received from Madame Darvash...), and this week I've been taking form Judy Rice.
I come out of the dressing room to stretch right before going into class and I see Judy sitting and talking with a very dancer-looking guy. I do a double take, and he's wearing a Winger t-shirt. Then I remember a post on The Winger a few months ago about when Judy Rice first came to the city to teach.
And who wrote that post?
Our very own Matthew Murphy, whom I have been in contact with A LOT online through the Winger and through our work for movmnt but I have still never met in person. We've missed each other at blogger meet-ups and had yet to be introduced face to face.
Until today!
As I pulled out the barre and stretched my (bad) Achilles he walked past and we were both like, um...finally he asked what my name was and we realized it was indeed our time to meet. Too funny! He only stayed for barre so we didn't get a chance to talk or anything afterwards, but it was an ironic way to finally meet. Small dance world!
Nice to meet you Matt!
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