Throughout the year, the Portland Metro Performing Arts Center helps youngsters learn theater arts. See how their performance of the “Odalisque Variations from Le Corsaire” was enhanced by the new tutus ‚Ķ
Two dancers admire the new costume worn by Meng Paulson as she prepares for the November 17th performance of Le Corsaire at Portland Metro Performing Arts Center.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
Nothing lifts the spirits of performers more than great costuming. Thanks to a generous donation, Metro Dancers’ ballerinas are now dancing pretty.
“We’re excited, you bet!” exclaimed Nancy Yeamans, director of Metro Dancers and executive director of Portland Metro Performing Arts Center. “These tutus are designed and sewn by the same costumer who creates them for the San Francisco and New York ballet companies. It is like getting a ‘black belt’ in ballet, when you get to wear a costume like this.”
The young dancers agreed, as they primped and readied themselves for the performance on November 17. “I feel so professional wearing this costume,” said a ballerina, as she pinned on her small hat.
Performing the Odalisque Variations from Le Corsaire at Portland Metro Performing Center, in their new costumes, are (back row) Nadia De LaTorre, Lorianne Barclay, Krista Bennett; (front row) Meng Paulson and Emily Sevy.
“The ‘Odalisque Variations from Le Corsaire’,” Yeamans explained, “is a ballet that takes place in an Arabian pasha’s palace. It is an exotic dance. An Odalisque was a lady idolized for her beauty. The ballet is special because it has a rich variety of movement.”
Coming up in December, they’ll be holding their Nutcracker Workshop. The center’s director said, “We do the entire Nutcracker Suite in three days. The kids love it because they can learn all the wonderful parts and variations. Parents love it because it takes place on three consecutive days, December 19 through 21.”
To find out more, see www.pdxmetroarts.org or call (503) 408-0604.
© 2006 David F. Ashton ~ East PDX News
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