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{{Short description|Canadian ballet company}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=December 2014}}
{{Use Canadian English|date=December 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=May 2012}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2021}}
{{Infobox ballet company
{{Infobox ballet company
| name = Royal Winnipeg Ballet
| name = Royal Winnipeg Ballet
| image = Wpgconcerthall.jpg
| image = Wpgconcerthall.jpg
| alt = Front view of a large theatre venue.
| alt = Front view of a large theatre venue.
| caption = [[Centennial Concert Hall]]
| caption = [[Centennial Concert Hall]], principal performance venue of the RWB
| previous_names = {{unbulleted list
| previous_names = {{unbulleted list
| Winnipeg Ballet
| Winnipeg Ballet
Line 13: Line 14:
| founding_choreographers = Gweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally
| founding_choreographers = Gweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally
| venue = Centennial Concert Hall
| venue = Centennial Concert Hall
| location = [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]]. [[Canada]] {{flagicon|CAN}}
| location = 380 Graham Avenue<br />[[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]]<br />R3C 4K2
| website = [http://www.rwb.org/ www.rwb.org]
| website = {{URL|http://www.rwb.org/}}
| chief_executive =
| chief_executive = André Lewis
| ballet_staff_type = Director of Company Operations
| ballet_staff_type =
| ballet_staff_name = Chris Turyk
| ballet_staff_name =
| company_manager =
| company_manager = Chris Turyk
| artistic_director = Andre Lewis
| artistic_director = André Lewis
| music_director = Tadeusz Biernacki
| deputy_director = Tara Birtwhistle
| principal_conductor = Julian Pellicano
| ballet_master_in_chief = Johnny Chang (Zhang-Wei Qiang)
| ballet_master_in_chief = Johnny Chang (Zhang-Wei Qiang)
| ballet_master = Jaime Vargas
| ballet_master = Jaime Vargas
| ballet_mistress = {{unbulleted list
| ballet_mistress = {{unbulleted list
| Tara Birtwhistle
| Vanessa Lawson
| Vanessa Lawson
| Caroline Gruber
| Caroline Gruber
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| orchestra = [[Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra]]
| orchestra = [[Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra]]
| official_school = Royal Winnipeg Ballet School
| official_school = Royal Winnipeg Ballet School
| formation = Principal<br />First Soloist<br />Second Soloist<br />Corps de Ballet<br />Apprentice<br />Aspirant
| formation = {{ubl|Principal|First Soloist|Second Soloist|Corps de Ballet|Apprentice|Aspirant}}
}}
}}


The '''Royal Winnipeg Ballet''' is one of the world's premier dance companies. Based in [[Winnipeg]], [[Manitoba]], it is [[Canada]]'s oldest [[ballet company]] and the longest continuously operating ballet company in [[North America]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/canada/10-attractions-make-canada-great/5/|title=10 Attractions That Make Canada Great|publisher=''[[Reader's Digest]]''|author= JENNIFER GOLDBERG|accessdate=2016-09-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pc.gc.ca/APPS/CP-NR/release_e.asp?id=2188&andor1=nr|title=Harper Government Commemorates National Historic Significance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet|publisher=[[Government of Canada]]|date=23 December 2014|accessdate=2016-09-25}}</ref>
The '''Royal Winnipeg Ballet''' is Canada's oldest [[ballet company]] and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North America.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.readersdigest.ca/travel/canada/10-attractions-make-canada-great/5/|title=10 Attractions That Make Canada Great|magazine=[[Reader's Digest]]|author= JENNIFER GOLDBERG|access-date=2016-09-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pc.gc.ca/APPS/CP-NR/release_e.asp?id=2188&andor1=nr|title=Harper Government Commemorates National Historic Significance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet|publisher=[[Government of Canada]]|date=23 December 2014|access-date=2016-09-25}}</ref>


==History==
==History==
[[File:Royal Winnipeg Ballet 01.JPG|thumb|right|From left to right: Amanda Green, Yosuke Mino, and Vanessa Lawson]]
[[File:Royal Winnipeg Ballet 01.JPG|thumb|right|From left to right: Amanda Green, Yosuke Mino, and Vanessa Lawson]]
It was founded in 1939 as the "Winnipeg Ballet Club" by [[Gweneth Lloyd]] and [[Betty Farrally]]. The name was changed to the "Winnipeg Ballet" in 1941 and the company began touring Canada in 1945. In 1948, with the initiative of the Winnipeg Ballet, the [[Canadian Ballet Festival]] was formed.
It was founded in 1939 as the "Winnipeg Ballet Club" by [[Gweneth Lloyd]] and [[Betty Farrally]] (who also founded the ballet school The Canadian School of Ballet in British Columbia). The name was changed to the "Winnipeg Ballet" in 1941 and the company began touring Canada in 1945. In 1948, with the initiative of the Winnipeg Ballet, the [[Canadian Ballet Festival]] was formed.


The Royal Winnipeg Ballet was granted its royal title in 1953, the first granted under the reign of [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|Queen Elizabeth]] II. It completed its first American tour in 1954. In June that year the RWB's rented premises were devastated by fire; the company's entire stock of costumes, original music, choreographic scores and sets was destroyed. Conductor [[Eric Wild (conductor)|Eric Wild]] served as the company's music director from 1955 to 1962.
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet was granted its royal title in 1953, the first granted under the reign of [[Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom|Queen Elizabeth]] II. It completed its first American tour in 1954. In June that year the RWB's rented premises were devastated by fire; the company's entire stock of costumes, original music, choreographic scores and sets were destroyed. Conductor [[Eric Wild (conductor)|Eric Wild]] served as the company's music director from 1955 to 1962.


The company solidified its reputation under the artistic directorship of Saskatchewan-born [[Arnold Spohr]] from 1958 to 1988. Spohr, who first joined the company as a dancer in 1945, during his tenure maintained a strong focus on developing Canadian talent, and, at the same time, he developed the RWB as an international touring company, and actively engaged with choreographers and dancers from around the world to expand the ballet.<ref>[https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9902E1D7173FF931A15757C0A9669D8B63 "Arnold Spohr, 86, Leader Of Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Obituary", ''[[The New York Times]]'', 22 April 2010]. Retrieved 18 May 2012.</ref>
The company solidified its reputation under the artistic directorship of Saskatchewan-born [[Arnold Spohr]] from 1958 to 1988. Spohr, who first joined the company as a dancer in 1945, during his tenure maintained a strong focus on developing Canadian talent, and, at the same time, he developed the RWB as an international touring company, and actively engaged with choreographers and dancers from around the world to expand the ballet.<ref>[https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9902E1D7173FF931A15757C0A9669D8B63 "Arnold Spohr, 86, Leader Of Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Obituary"], ''[[The New York Times]]'', 22 April 2010. Retrieved 18 May 2012.</ref>


Spohr was succeeded by RWB principal dancer Henny Jurriëns who was formerly assistant to [[Dutch National Ballet]] director [[Rudi van Dantzig]].<ref name="CDNE">{{cite web|url=http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/royal-winnipeg-ballet/|title=Royal Winnipeg Ballet|authors=KATHERINE CORNELL, MAX WYMAN|publisher=''[[The Canadian Encyclopedia]]''|date=3 April 2015|accessdate=2015-06-13}}</ref> Jurriëns, however, died in a car accident in April 1989.<ref name="CDNE"/> In 1990 [[John Meehan (dancer)|John Meehan]] from [[American Ballet Theatre]] became artistic director but left in 1993 following the company's persistent financial difficulties.<ref name="CDNE"/> [[William Whitener]], formerly the artistic director of [[Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal]], was chosen to succeed Meehan. Continuing financial problems and dancer "unrest", Whitener was released in less than two years later.<ref name="CDNE"/>
Spohr was succeeded by RWB principal dancer Henny Jurriëns who was formerly assistant to [[Dutch National Ballet]] director [[Rudi van Dantzig]].<ref name="CDNE">{{cite encyclopedia|entry-url=http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/royal-winnipeg-ballet/|entry=Royal Winnipeg Ballet |author=Katherine Cornell |author2=Max Wyman |encyclopedia=[[The Canadian Encyclopedia]]|date=3 April 2015|access-date=2015-06-13}}</ref> Jurriëns, however, died in a car accident in April 1989.<ref name="CDNE"/> In 1990 [[John Meehan (dancer)|John Meehan]] from [[American Ballet Theatre]] became artistic director but left in 1993 following the company's persistent financial difficulties.<ref name="CDNE"/> [[William Whitener]], formerly the artistic director of [[Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal]], was chosen to succeed Meehan. Continuing financial problems and dancer "unrest", Whitener was released in less than two years later.<ref name="CDNE"/>


André Lewis was appointed in 1996 as artistic director. Lewis' decades-long association with the RWB began in 1975 when he was accepted into the Professional Division at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School. In 1979, he was joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company and performed as a dancer with the RWB until 1990. Lewis' roles include: Gunther in ''Nutcracker''; Mercutio in ''Romeo and Juliet''; and Jamie Paul in ''The Ecstasy of Rita Joe''.<ref name="Inc.1972">{{cite journal|author=Michael Bennett|title=Western Canada:Activity abounds on all fronts|work=Billboard|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YUUEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA48|date=30 September 1972|publisher=Nielsen Business Media, Inc.|pages=48–|issn=0006-2510}}</ref> Company Music Director and Conductor is Tad Biernacki and Senior Ballet Master is Johnny W. Chang.
André Lewis was appointed in 1996 as artistic director. Lewis' decades-long association with the RWB began in 1975 when he was accepted into the Professional Division at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School. In 1979, he was joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company and performed as a dancer with the RWB until 1990. Lewis' roles include: Gunther in ''Nutcracker''; Mercutio in ''Romeo and Juliet''; and Jamie Paul in ''The Ecstasy of Rita Joe''.<ref name="Inc.1972">{{cite magazine|author=Michael Bennett|title=Western Canada:Activity abounds on all fronts|magazine=Billboard|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=YUUEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA48|date=30 September 1972|pages=48–|issn=0006-2510}}</ref> Company Music Director and Conductor is Tad Biernacki and Senior Ballet Master is Johnny W. Chang.


In 1981 the company participated alongside the [[National Ballet of Canada]], [[Les Grands Ballets Canadiens]], le Groupe de la Place Royale, the Danny Grossman Dance Company, the [[Toronto Dance Theatre]], Winnipeg Contemporary Dancers and the Anna Wyman Dance Theatre in the Canadian Dance Spectacular,<ref>Stephen Godfrey, "Dance Spectacular is just that". ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'', May 30, 1981.</ref> a dance show at Ottawa's [[National Arts Centre]] which was filmed by the [[National Film Board of Canada]] for the 1982 documentary film ''[[Gala (1982 film)|Gala]]''.<ref>Stephen Godfrey, "Gala: a dance milestone makes a fascinating film". ''[[The Globe and Mail]]'', May 1, 1982.</ref>
⚫
The dancer most associated with the RWB has been [[Evelyn Hart]]; it also included many other notable dancers including [[Mikhail Baryshnikov]]. Born in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], in 1956, Hart made her professional debut with the RWB in 1976. In 1980, she was awarded the bronze medal at the World Ballet Concours in Japan, and the gold medal at the [[Varna International Ballet Competition]] where she also received the Exceptional Artistic Achievement Award. Both medals were awarded for her performance of Belong pas de deux, created by internationally acclaimed choreographer [[Norbert Vesak]] as part of his work ''What To Do Till the Messiah Comes''. Hart was awarded the [[Order of Canada]] in 1983. She left the RWB in 2005. [[David Peregrine]], Hart's long-time partner, joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet as a member of the corps in 1975 and became a soloist three years later and principal dancer in 1980; that year the pair both performed in Varna. Peregrine was made an officer of the [[Order of Canada]] in 1986.<ref>[http://www.gg.ca/honours/search-recherche/honours-desc.asp?lang=e&TypeID=orc&id=1322 David Peregrine, Order of Canada]</ref>

⚫
The dancer most associated with the RWB has been [[Evelyn Hart]]; it also included many other notable dancers including [[Mikhail Baryshnikov]]. Born in [[Toronto]], [[Ontario]], in 1956, Hart made her professional debut with the RWB in 1976. In 1980, she was awarded the bronze medal at the World Ballet Concours in Japan, and the gold medal at the [[Varna International Ballet Competition]] where she also received the Exceptional Artistic Achievement Award. Both medals were awarded for her performance of Belong pas de deux, created by internationally acclaimed choreographer [[Norbert Vesak]] as part of his work ''What To Do Till the Messiah Comes''. Hart was awarded the [[Order of Canada]] in 1983. She left the RWB in 2005. [[David Peregrine]], Hart's long-time partner, joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet as a member of the corps in 1975 and became a soloist three years later and principal dancer in 1980; that year the pair both performed in Varna. Peregrine was made an officer of the [[Order of Canada]] in 1986.<ref>[http://www.gg.ca/honours/search-recherche/honours-desc.asp?lang=e&TypeID=orc&id=1322 David Peregrine, Order of Canada]{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>


Other Honorable mentions for dancers include principal Laura Graham, who was awarded a Silver medal at the 14th Varna International Ballet Competition in 1990. Her team included principal Steven Hyde, receiving a best non-competing partner honor, and soloist Mark Godden receiving best new choreography for 'Myth'. Principal dancer Suzanne Rubio followed in 1991 winning a Bronze medal at the 2nd Helsinki International Ballet Competition.
Other Honorable mentions for dancers include principal Laura Graham, who was awarded a Silver medal at the 14th Varna International Ballet Competition in 1990. Her team included principal Steven Hyde, receiving a best non-competing partner honor, and soloist Mark Godden receiving best new choreography for 'Myth'. Principal dancer Suzanne Rubio followed in 1991 winning a Bronze medal at the 2nd Helsinki International Ballet Competition.


In 1992, Gweneth Lloyd, co-founder of the company, became the first recipient of the [[Governor General's Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement]].<ref>[http://www.ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/Governor+General+Performing+Arts+Awards+Homegrown+heroes/6554276/story.html "Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards: Homegrown heroes", ''[[The Ottawa Citizen]]'', 2 May 2012]. Retrieved 2 May 2012.</ref>
In 1992, Gweneth Lloyd, co-founder of the company, became the first recipient of the [[Governor General's Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement]].<ref>[https://ottawacitizen.com/entertainment/Governor+General+Performing+Arts+Awards+Homegrown+heroes/6554276/story.html "Governor General's Performing Arts Awards: Homegrown heroes"], ''[[The Ottawa Citizen]]'', 2 May 2012{{dead link|date=April 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}. Retrieved 2 May 2012.</ref>


The company spends 20 or more weeks a year on the road, presenting more than 100 performances every year in both large and small centres. The company also mounts four productions a year in Winnipeg's performing arts venue, the [[Centennial Concert Hall]].
The company spends 20 or more weeks a year on the road, presenting more than 100 performances every year in both large and small centres. The company also mounts four productions a year in Winnipeg's performing arts venue, the [[Centennial Concert Hall]].


==Royal Winnipeg Ballet School==
==Royal Winnipeg Ballet School==
[[File:Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Avenue, Winnipeg.JPG|thumb|Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Avenue]]
[[File:Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Avenue, Winnipeg.JPG|thumb|Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Avenue]]
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School is composed of two divisions, Recreational and Professional, and is home to the more than 1,500 students annually.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://rwb.org/school|title=School|work=Royal Winnipeg Ballet|access-date=2018-07-30|language=en-US}}</ref> The current building opened in January 1988, and features 12 spacious, sprung-floor studios, and a 224-seat performance space.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.rwb.org/school/professional-division/residence-facilities/|title=Campus & Facilities|work=Royal Winnipeg Ballet|access-date=2018-07-30|language=en-US}}</ref>
⚫
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Professional Division is an exclusive, full-time classical ballet training program for students in grades 6 through 12. The school includes approximately 72 young dancers, selected from around the world, and graduates have international careers in top companies in Canada and abroad. The current building opened in January, 1988.


The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Recreational Division provides training and instruction to students age 3+ in various disciplines including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Pointe, Musical Theatre, Modern, Creative Movement and Hip Hop.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://rwb.org/school/recreational-division/|title=Recreational Division|work=Royal Winnipeg Ballet|access-date=2018-07-30|language=en-US}}</ref> The Recreational Division features an audition-only competitive Dance Ensemble program for high level Junior to Senior students. The school also offers an Intensive Training Program for students who have shown ability and dedication for more intense, specialized training in classical ballet. In this program, numerous ballet classes are supported with additional classes such as pointe, RWB School Dance Ensemble performance groups, conditioning and modern. Students are prepared using the [[Cecchetti method]] for classical ballet exams.<ref name="Auditions">{{Cite news|url=https://rwb.org/school/recreational-division/programs/auditions|title=Auditions|work=Royal Winnipeg Ballet|access-date=2018-07-30|language=en-US}}</ref>
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[[David Lee Moroni]], a former principal dancer with the RWB, headed the company's professional training program from 1970 to 2003.<ref name="gala">[http://www.artsnews.ca/Walker/040520.html ''Moroni gala planned''], Excerpt from [[Winnipeg Free Press]], 19 May 2004</ref> Moroni's notable students included: [[Evelyn Hart]], [[David Peregrine]], André Lewis, [[Tara Birtwhistle]], and [[Jennifer Welsman]]. In 1990 Moroni received the [[Order of Canada]].<ref>{{OCC|2775}}</ref>


Alumni have gone onto careers on Broadway, [[Rainbow Stage]] and [[Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater|Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre]] and have continued their education with Arts Umbrella, [[Goh Ballet Academy|Goh Ballet]], [[Alberta Ballet Company|Alberta Ballet]], [[Boston Conservatory at Berklee|Boston Conservatory]] and the School of Contemporary Dancers. Students work closely with RWB School Artistic faculty, including award-winning choreographers, and perform new works in festivals and competitions.<ref name="Auditions"/>
From 2003 onward, Arlene Minkhorst has been the Director of the school, and Jacqueline Weber has been the Director of the Professional Division.

⚫
The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Professional Division is an exclusive, full-time classical ballet training program for students in grades 6 through 12. The school includes approximately 72 young dancers, selected from around the world, and graduates have international careers in top companies in Canada and abroad. The Professional Division instructs students using the Vaganova method of ballet.

⚫
[[David Lee Moroni]], a former principal dancer with the RWB, headed the company's professional training program from 1970 to 2003.<ref name="gala">[http://www.artsnews.ca/Walker/040520.html ''Moroni gala planned'']{{dead link|date=December 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, Excerpt from [[Winnipeg Free Press]], 19 May 2004</ref> Moroni's notable students included: [[Evelyn Hart]], [[David Peregrine]], André Lewis, [[Tara Birtwhistle]], and [[Jennifer Welsman]]. In 1990 Moroni received the [[Order of Canada]].<ref>{{OCC|2775}}</ref>

From 2003 until 2016, Arlene Minkhorst was Director of the school; in 2016, Stéphane Léonard assumed the role. Since 2015, Suzanne André has been the Principal of the Professional Division, and since 2016, Nicole Kepp has been the Principal of the Recreational Division.


==Choreography==
==Choreography==
In 2002, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet's interpretation of the story of [[Dracula]], choreographed by Mark Godden, was filmed in a made for television titled ''[[Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary]]'' directed by [[Guy Maddin]]. The film was later released theatrically. Godden, who became the RWB's first choreographer in residence in 1991, has created several other major works for the company, including: ''Angels in the Architecture''; ''Dame Aux Fruits''; ''A Darkness Between Us''; ''Shepherd's Wake''; and ''Svengali''
In 2002, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet's interpretation of the story of [[Dracula]], choreographed by Mark Godden, was filmed in a made for television titled ''[[Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary]]'' directed by [[Guy Maddin]]. The film was later released theatrically. Godden, who became the RWB's first choreographer in residence in 1991, has created several other major works for the company, including: ''Angels in the Architecture''; ''Dame Aux Fruits''; ''A Darkness Between Us''; ''Shepherd's Wake''; and ''Svengali''


Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet is the first organization to present a theatrical or dance production of the works of [[Leonard Cohen]]. During the RWB tenure of Artistic Director Arnold Spohr (1958–1988), in Summer 1970, Brian Macdonald choreographed ''The Shining People of Leonard Cohen'' which debuted in Paris. That July, it was staged at Canada’s National Arts Centre in Ottawa – with eclectic band [[Lighthouse (band)|Lighthouse]] opening the show.<ref>[https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=NYwyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=J7kFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3269%2C7027202 "Winnipeg Ballet draws the young: With Lighthouse's help", ''[[The Montreal Gazette]]'', 29 July 1970]. Retrieved 18 May 2012.</ref>
Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet is the first organization to present a theatrical or dance production of the works of [[Leonard Cohen]]. During the RWB tenure of Artistic Director Arnold Spohr (1958–1988), in Summer 1970, Brian Macdonald choreographed ''The Shining People of Leonard Cohen'' which debuted in Paris. That July, it was staged at Canada's National Arts Centre in Ottawa – with eclectic band [[Lighthouse (band)|Lighthouse]] opening the show.<ref>[https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=NYwyAAAAIBAJ&sjid=J7kFAAAAIBAJ&pg=3269%2C7027202 "Winnipeg Ballet draws the young: With Lighthouse's help"], ''[[The Montreal Gazette]]'', 29 July 1970. Retrieved 18 May 2012.</ref>


In 2002, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet commissioned American choreographer [[Val Caniparoli]] for the first full-length ballet, entitled ''Val Caniparoli's A Cinderella Story'' <ref>{{cite news|title=RWB star Wright retiring 'on high note'|newspaper=Winnipeg Free Press|date=23 June 2007}}</ref> using the music of composer Richard Rodgers. "The story was familiar, yet original; the choreography sleek, yet classical; the music, a fresh-sounding amalgam of jazz riffs and swirls, based on the themes of one vintage composer. And it is the belle of the ball".<ref>{{cite web|title=Rodgers and Hammerstein|url=http://www.rnh.com/news/590/Cinderella-Dances-Again-To-An-All-Rodgers-Score|work=Latest News|accessdate=3 March 2014}}</ref>
In 2002, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet commissioned American choreographer [[Val Caniparoli]] for the first full-length ballet, entitled ''Val Caniparoli's A Cinderella Story''<ref>{{cite news|title=RWB star Wright retiring 'on high note'|newspaper=Winnipeg Free Press|date=23 June 2007}}</ref> using the music of composer Richard Rodgers. "The story was familiar, yet original; the choreography sleek, yet classical; the music, a fresh-sounding amalgam of jazz riffs and swirls, based on the themes of one vintage composer. And it is the belle of the ball".<ref>{{cite web|title=Rodgers and Hammerstein|url=http://www.rnh.com/news/590/Cinderella-Dances-Again-To-An-All-Rodgers-Score|work=Latest News|access-date=3 March 2014}}</ref>


In May 2012, the company presented the World Premiere of ''The Doorway - Scenes from Leonard Cohen'', a contemporary dance piece based on the words and music of Cohen, choreographed by Jorden Morris. Morris' previous works for the RWB include the highly successful full-length classical ballet ''Peter Pan'' (2006) and ''Moulin Rouge - The Ballet'' (2009 premiere). In this newest ballet, consisting of five vignettes, Cohen's recorded songs and interviews blend with live music. ''[[Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen song)|Hallelujah]]'' is performed by musician [[Allison Crowe]] (voice and piano) and dancers Sophia Lee and Jo-Ann Sundermeier alternating dates.<ref>[http://www.cbc.ca/manitoba/scene/theatre/2012/05/09/pure-ballet/ "Leonard Cohen's music comes to life at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet", ''[[CBC News]]'', 9 May 2012]. Retrieved 9 May 2012.</ref> In November 2012 the RWB toured ''The Doorway'' to great acclaim with three live song performances by Crowe.<ref>[http://thechronicleherald.ca/artslife/166277-rwb-technique-emotion-dazzle-in-halifax-return/ "RWB technique, emotion dazzle in Halifax return", ''[[Chronicle-Herald|Chronicle Herald]]'', 8 November 2012]. Retrieved 2 December 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/Arts/Entertainment/2012-11-16/article-3121753/A-royal-treat/1/ "A royal treat", ''[[The Guardian (Charlottetown)|The Guardian]]'', 16 November 2012]. Retrieved 2 December 2012.</ref>
In May 2012, the company presented the World Premiere of ''The Doorway - Scenes from Leonard Cohen'', a contemporary dance piece based on the words and music of Cohen, choreographed by Jorden Morris. Morris' previous works for the RWB include the highly successful full-length classical ballet ''Peter Pan'' (2006) and ''Moulin Rouge - The Ballet'' (2009 premiere). In this newest ballet, consisting of five vignettes, Cohen's recorded songs and interviews blend with live music. ''[[Hallelujah (Leonard Cohen song)|Hallelujah]]'' is performed by musician [[Allison Crowe]] (voice and piano) and dancers Sophia Lee and Jo-Ann Sundermeier alternating dates.<ref>[http://www.cbc.ca/manitoba/scene/theatre/2012/05/09/pure-ballet/ "Leonard Cohen's music comes to life at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet"], ''[[CBC News]]'', 9 May 2012. Retrieved 9 May 2012.</ref> In November 2012 the RWB toured ''The Doorway'' to great acclaim with three live song performances by Crowe.<ref>[http://thechronicleherald.ca/artslife/166277-rwb-technique-emotion-dazzle-in-halifax-return/ "RWB technique, emotion dazzle in Halifax return"], ''[[Chronicle-Herald|Chronicle Herald]]'', 8 November 2012. Retrieved 2 December 2012.</ref><ref>[http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/Arts/Entertainment/2012-11-16/article-3121753/A-royal-treat/1/ "A royal treat"], ''[[The Guardian (Charlottetown)|The Guardian]]'', 16 November 2012. Retrieved 2 December 2012.</ref>


==Dancers==
==Dancers==
{{Category see also|Royal Winnipeg Ballet dancers}}
{{Category see also|Royal Winnipeg Ballet dancers}}


Dancers in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's 2015-2016 season include:<ref>{{cite web | title = Dancers | publisher = ''Royal Winnipeg Ballet'' | url = http://rwb.org/who-we-are/dancers/ | accessdate = 22 July 2015 }}</ref>
Dancers in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's 2023-2024 season include:<ref>{{cite web | title = Dancers | publisher = Royal Winnipeg Ballet | url = http://rwb.org/who-we-are/dancers/ | access-date = 17 January 2020 }}</ref>


===Principals===
===Principals===
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
{{col-begin}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Elizabeth Lamont
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Dmitri Dovgoselets
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Alanna McAdie
{{col-4}}
}}
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*{{flagicon|China}} Liang Xing
{{col-4}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Sophia Lee
{{col-4}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|USA}} Jo-Ann Sundermeier
{{col-4}}
{{col-end}}


===Soloists===
===Soloists===
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
{{col-begin}}
*{{flagicon|Australia}} Stephan Azulay
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Yayoi Ban
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Yayoi Ban
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Jaimi Deleau
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Yosuke Mino
*{{flagicon|Belgium}} Peter Lancksweerdt
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Michel Lavoie
{{col-4}}
}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|USA}} Josh Reynolds
{{col-4}}
{{col-end}}


===Second Soloists===
===Second Soloists===
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
{{col-begin}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Katie Bonnell
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Sarah Davey
*{{flagicon|Italy}} Marco Lo Presti
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Alanna McAdie
*{{flagicon|United States}} Liam Saito
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Katie Simpson
{{col-4}}
}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Kostyantyn Keshyshev
{{col-4}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Moldova}} Egor Zdor
{{col-4}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Elizabeth Lamont
{{col-end}}


===Corps de Ballet===
===Corps de Ballet===
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
{{col-begin}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|United States}} Jenna Burns
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Katie Bonnell
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Cleighden Butler
*{{flagicon|Brazil}} Thiago Dos Santos
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Julianna Generoux
*{{flagicon|United States}} Stephan Possin
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Joshua Hidson
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Tymin Keown
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Liam Caines
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Emilie Lewis
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Yoshiko Kamikusa
*{{flagicon|United States}} Parker Long
*{{flagicon|Brazil}} Luzemberg Santana
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Logan Savard
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Amanda Solheim
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Tyler Carver
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Kyra Soo
*{{flagicon|China}} Chenxin Liu
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Brooke Thomas
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Manami Tsubai
*{{flagicon|United States}} Maggie Weatherdon
{{col-4}}
}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Jaimi Deleau
*{{flagicon|Hong Kong}} Sarah Yeung
⚫
*{{flagicon|United States}} Ryan Vetter
{{col-end}}


===Apprentices===
===Apprentices===
{{Columns-list|colwidth=20em|
{{col-begin}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Felix Jinga
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Philippe Larouche
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Myles Mackesy
⚫
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Rafe Perry
{{col-4}}
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Jesse Petrie
*{{flagicon|Canada}} Taisi Tollasepp
{{col-4}}
}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|China}} Yue Shi
{{col-4}}
⚫
*{{flagicon|Japan}} Saeka Shirai
{{col-end}}


==See also==
==See also==
Line 153: Line 140:


==References==
==References==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{Reflist}}


==External links==
==External links==
*{{Official website|http://www.rwb.org/}}
*{{Official website|http://www.rwb.org/}}
*[http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?PgNm=TCE&Params=A1ARTA0006995 Royal Winnipeg Ballet] at [[The Canadian Encyclopedia]]
*[https://web.archive.org/web/20060623035747/http://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.com/index.cfm?PgNm=TCE&Params=A1ARTA0006995 Royal Winnipeg Ballet] at [[The Canadian Encyclopedia]]
*[https://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/08/arts/dance/08boris.html NY Times of Ruthanna Boris by [[Jack Anderson (dance critic)|Jack Anderson]], 8 January 2007]
*[https://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/08/arts/dance/08boris.html NY Times of Ruthanna Boris by Jack Anderson, 8 January 2007]
*[http://central.bac-lac.gc.ca/.redirect?app=fonandcol&id=201886&lang=eng Royal Winnipeg Ballet fonds (R10438)] at [[Library and Archives Canada]]. The fonds consists of 20 posters from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet advertising ballets and plays.


{{Ballet schools}}
{{Ballet schools}}
{{Ballet companies}}
{{Ballet companies}}
{{Authority control}}


⚫
[[Category:Royal Winnipeg Ballet| ]]
[[Category:Ballet schools in Canada|Winnipeg Ballet, Royal]]
[[Category:Ballet schools in Canada|Winnipeg Ballet, Royal]]
[[Category:Culture of Winnipeg]]
[[Category:Culture of Winnipeg]]
⚫
[[Category:Royal Winnipeg Ballet| Royal Winnipeg Ballet]]
[[Category:Companies based in Winnipeg]]
[[Category:Companies based in Winnipeg]]
[[Category:1939 establishments in Manitoba]]
[[Category:1939 establishments in Manitoba]]

Latest revision as of 22:25, 16 October 2023

Royal Winnipeg Ballet
Front view of a large theatre venue.
Centennial Concert Hall, principal performance venue of the RWB
General information
NameRoyal Winnipeg Ballet
Previous names
  • Winnipeg Ballet
  • Winnipeg Ballet Club
Year founded1939
Founding choreographersGweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally
Location380 Graham Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3C 4K2
Principal venueCentennial Concert Hall
Websitewww.rwb.org
Senior staff
Chief ExecutiveAndré Lewis
Company managerChris Turyk
Artistic staff
Artistic DirectorAndré Lewis
Deputy DirectorTara Birtwhistle
Ballet Master in ChiefJohnny Chang (Zhang-Wei Qiang)
Ballet MasterJaime Vargas
Ballet Mistress
  • Vanessa Lawson
  • Caroline Gruber
Principal ConductorJulian Pellicano
Other
OrchestraWinnipeg Symphony Orchestra
Official schoolRoyal Winnipeg Ballet School
Formation
  • Principal
  • First Soloist
  • Second Soloist
  • Corps de Ballet
  • Apprentice
  • Aspirant

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is Canada's oldest ballet company and the longest continuously operating ballet company in North America.[1][2]

History[edit]

From left to right: Amanda Green, Yosuke Mino, and Vanessa Lawson

It was founded in 1939 as the "Winnipeg Ballet Club" by Gweneth Lloyd and Betty Farrally (who also founded the ballet school The Canadian School of Ballet in British Columbia). The name was changed to the "Winnipeg Ballet" in 1941 and the company began touring Canada in 1945. In 1948, with the initiative of the Winnipeg Ballet, the Canadian Ballet Festival was formed.

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet was granted its royal title in 1953, the first granted under the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. It completed its first American tour in 1954. In June that year the RWB's rented premises were devastated by fire; the company's entire stock of costumes, original music, choreographic scores and sets were destroyed. Conductor Eric Wild served as the company's music director from 1955 to 1962.

The company solidified its reputation under the artistic directorship of Saskatchewan-born Arnold Spohr from 1958 to 1988. Spohr, who first joined the company as a dancer in 1945, during his tenure maintained a strong focus on developing Canadian talent, and, at the same time, he developed the RWB as an international touring company, and actively engaged with choreographers and dancers from around the world to expand the ballet.[3]

Spohr was succeeded by RWB principal dancer Henny Jurriëns who was formerly assistant to Dutch National Ballet director Rudi van Dantzig.[4] Jurriëns, however, died in a car accident in April 1989.[4] In 1990 John Meehan from American Ballet Theatre became artistic director but left in 1993 following the company's persistent financial difficulties.[4] William Whitener, formerly the artistic director of Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal, was chosen to succeed Meehan. Continuing financial problems and dancer "unrest", Whitener was released in less than two years later.[4]

André Lewis was appointed in 1996 as artistic director. Lewis' decades-long association with the RWB began in 1975 when he was accepted into the Professional Division at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School. In 1979, he was joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company and performed as a dancer with the RWB until 1990. Lewis' roles include: Gunther in Nutcracker; Mercutio in Romeo and Juliet; and Jamie Paul in The Ecstasy of Rita Joe.[5] Company Music Director and Conductor is Tad Biernacki and Senior Ballet Master is Johnny W. Chang.

In 1981 the company participated alongside the National Ballet of Canada, Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, le Groupe de la Place Royale, the Danny Grossman Dance Company, the Toronto Dance Theatre, Winnipeg Contemporary Dancers and the Anna Wyman Dance Theatre in the Canadian Dance Spectacular,[6] a dance show at Ottawa's National Arts Centre which was filmed by the National Film Board of Canada for the 1982 documentary film Gala.[7]

The dancer most associated with the RWB has been Evelyn Hart; it also included many other notable dancers including Mikhail Baryshnikov. Born in Toronto, Ontario, in 1956, Hart made her professional debut with the RWB in 1976. In 1980, she was awarded the bronze medal at the World Ballet Concours in Japan, and the gold medal at the Varna International Ballet Competition where she also received the Exceptional Artistic Achievement Award. Both medals were awarded for her performance of Belong pas de deux, created by internationally acclaimed choreographer Norbert Vesak as part of his work What To Do Till the Messiah Comes. Hart was awarded the Order of Canada in 1983. She left the RWB in 2005. David Peregrine, Hart's long-time partner, joined the Royal Winnipeg Ballet as a member of the corps in 1975 and became a soloist three years later and principal dancer in 1980; that year the pair both performed in Varna. Peregrine was made an officer of the Order of Canada in 1986.[8]

Other Honorable mentions for dancers include principal Laura Graham, who was awarded a Silver medal at the 14th Varna International Ballet Competition in 1990. Her team included principal Steven Hyde, receiving a best non-competing partner honor, and soloist Mark Godden receiving best new choreography for 'Myth'. Principal dancer Suzanne Rubio followed in 1991 winning a Bronze medal at the 2nd Helsinki International Ballet Competition.

In 1992, Gweneth Lloyd, co-founder of the company, became the first recipient of the Governor General's Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Artistic Achievement.[9]

The company spends 20 or more weeks a year on the road, presenting more than 100 performances every year in both large and small centres. The company also mounts four productions a year in Winnipeg's performing arts venue, the Centennial Concert Hall.

Royal Winnipeg Ballet School[edit]

Royal Winnipeg Ballet building, 380 Graham Avenue

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School is composed of two divisions, Recreational and Professional, and is home to the more than 1,500 students annually.[10] The current building opened in January 1988, and features 12 spacious, sprung-floor studios, and a 224-seat performance space.[11]

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Recreational Division provides training and instruction to students age 3+ in various disciplines including Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Pointe, Musical Theatre, Modern, Creative Movement and Hip Hop.[12] The Recreational Division features an audition-only competitive Dance Ensemble program for high level Junior to Senior students. The school also offers an Intensive Training Program for students who have shown ability and dedication for more intense, specialized training in classical ballet. In this program, numerous ballet classes are supported with additional classes such as pointe, RWB School Dance Ensemble performance groups, conditioning and modern. Students are prepared using the Cecchetti method for classical ballet exams.[13]

Alumni have gone onto careers on Broadway, Rainbow Stage and Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre and have continued their education with Arts Umbrella, Goh Ballet, Alberta Ballet, Boston Conservatory and the School of Contemporary Dancers. Students work closely with RWB School Artistic faculty, including award-winning choreographers, and perform new works in festivals and competitions.[13]

The Royal Winnipeg Ballet School, Professional Division is an exclusive, full-time classical ballet training program for students in grades 6 through 12. The school includes approximately 72 young dancers, selected from around the world, and graduates have international careers in top companies in Canada and abroad. The Professional Division instructs students using the Vaganova method of ballet.

David Lee Moroni, a former principal dancer with the RWB, headed the company's professional training program from 1970 to 2003.[14] Moroni's notable students included: Evelyn Hart, David Peregrine, André Lewis, Tara Birtwhistle, and Jennifer Welsman. In 1990 Moroni received the Order of Canada.[15]

From 2003 until 2016, Arlene Minkhorst was Director of the school; in 2016, Stéphane Léonard assumed the role. Since 2015, Suzanne André has been the Principal of the Professional Division, and since 2016, Nicole Kepp has been the Principal of the Recreational Division.

Choreography[edit]

In 2002, The Royal Winnipeg Ballet's interpretation of the story of Dracula, choreographed by Mark Godden, was filmed in a made for television titled Dracula: Pages from a Virgin's Diary directed by Guy Maddin. The film was later released theatrically. Godden, who became the RWB's first choreographer in residence in 1991, has created several other major works for the company, including: Angels in the Architecture; Dame Aux Fruits; A Darkness Between Us; Shepherd's Wake; and Svengali

Canada's Royal Winnipeg Ballet is the first organization to present a theatrical or dance production of the works of Leonard Cohen. During the RWB tenure of Artistic Director Arnold Spohr (1958–1988), in Summer 1970, Brian Macdonald choreographed The Shining People of Leonard Cohen which debuted in Paris. That July, it was staged at Canada's National Arts Centre in Ottawa – with eclectic band Lighthouse opening the show.[16]

In 2002, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet commissioned American choreographer Val Caniparoli for the first full-length ballet, entitled Val Caniparoli's A Cinderella Story[17] using the music of composer Richard Rodgers. "The story was familiar, yet original; the choreography sleek, yet classical; the music, a fresh-sounding amalgam of jazz riffs and swirls, based on the themes of one vintage composer. And it is the belle of the ball".[18]

In May 2012, the company presented the World Premiere of The Doorway - Scenes from Leonard Cohen, a contemporary dance piece based on the words and music of Cohen, choreographed by Jorden Morris. Morris' previous works for the RWB include the highly successful full-length classical ballet Peter Pan (2006) and Moulin Rouge - The Ballet (2009 premiere). In this newest ballet, consisting of five vignettes, Cohen's recorded songs and interviews blend with live music. Hallelujah is performed by musician Allison Crowe (voice and piano) and dancers Sophia Lee and Jo-Ann Sundermeier alternating dates.[19] In November 2012 the RWB toured The Doorway to great acclaim with three live song performances by Crowe.[20][21]

Dancers[edit]

See also: Category:Royal Winnipeg Ballet dancers

Dancers in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet's 2023-2024 season include:[22]

Principals[edit]

  • Canada Elizabeth Lamont
  • Canada Alanna McAdie

Soloists[edit]

  • Australia Stephan Azulay
  • Japan Yayoi Ban
  • Canada Jaimi Deleau
  • Belgium Peter Lancksweerdt
  • Canada Michel Lavoie

Second Soloists[edit]

  • Canada Katie Bonnell
  • Italy Marco Lo Presti
  • United States Liam Saito
  • Canada Katie Simpson

Corps de Ballet[edit]

  • United States Jenna Burns
  • Canada Cleighden Butler
  • Canada Julianna Generoux
  • Canada Joshua Hidson
  • Canada Tymin Keown
  • Canada Emilie Lewis
  • United States Parker Long
  • Canada Logan Savard
  • Canada Amanda Solheim
  • Canada Kyra Soo
  • Canada Brooke Thomas
  • United States Maggie Weatherdon

Apprentices[edit]

  • Canada Felix Jinga
  • Canada Myles Mackesy
  • Canada Rafe Perry
  • Canada Taisi Tollasepp

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ JENNIFER GOLDBERG. "10 Attractions That Make Canada Great". Reader's Digest. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
  2. ^ "Harper Government Commemorates National Historic Significance of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet". Government of Canada. 23 December 2014. Retrieved 25 September 2016.
  3. ^ "Arnold Spohr, 86, Leader Of Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Obituary", The New York Times, 22 April 2010. Retrieved 18 May 2012.
  4. ^ a b c d Katherine Cornell; Max Wyman (3 April 2015). "Royal Winnipeg Ballet". The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved 13 June 2015.
  5. ^ Michael Bennett (30 September 1972). "Western Canada:Activity abounds on all fronts". Billboard. pp. 48–. ISSN 0006-2510.
  6. ^ Stephen Godfrey, "Dance Spectacular is just that". The Globe and Mail, May 30, 1981.
  7. ^ Stephen Godfrey, "Gala: a dance milestone makes a fascinating film". The Globe and Mail, May 1, 1982.
  8. ^ David Peregrine, Order of Canada[permanent dead link]
  9. ^ "Governor General's Performing Arts Awards: Homegrown heroes", The Ottawa Citizen, 2 May 2012[permanent dead link]. Retrieved 2 May 2012.
  10. ^ "School". Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Retrieved 30 July 2018.
  11. ^ "Campus & Facilities". Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Retrieved 30 July 2018.
  12. ^ "Recreational Division". Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Retrieved 30 July 2018.
  13. ^ a b "Auditions". Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Retrieved 30 July 2018.
  14. ^ Moroni gala planned[permanent dead link], Excerpt from Winnipeg Free Press, 19 May 2004
  15. ^ Order of Canada citation
  16. ^ "Winnipeg Ballet draws the young: With Lighthouse's help", The Montreal Gazette, 29 July 1970. Retrieved 18 May 2012.
  17. ^ "RWB star Wright retiring 'on high note'". Winnipeg Free Press. 23 June 2007.
  18. ^ "Rodgers and Hammerstein". Latest News. Retrieved 3 March 2014.
  19. ^ "Leonard Cohen's music comes to life at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet", CBC News, 9 May 2012. Retrieved 9 May 2012.
  20. ^ "RWB technique, emotion dazzle in Halifax return", Chronicle Herald, 8 November 2012. Retrieved 2 December 2012.
  21. ^ "A royal treat", The Guardian, 16 November 2012. Retrieved 2 December 2012.
  22. ^ "Dancers". Royal Winnipeg Ballet. Retrieved 17 January 2020.

External links[edit]

Retrieved from "https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Royal_Winnipeg_Ballet&oldid=1180482028"