Ballet BC’s Inspiring UMS Debut

By UMS

Vancouver’s innovative Ballet BC made its much-anticipated UMS debut this October, culminating in two programs that brought packed audiences to standing ovations. In addition to their stunning performances in the Power Center, company members shared their love of dance both on and off campus, and with community members of all ages. From masterclasses to classroom visits, a school day performance, and a community dance workshop, Ballet BC certainly left its mark on Ann Arbor! Enjoy a look back on an unforgettable week:

Classroom Visits and Masterclasses

Two of Ballet BC’s dancers, Sarah Pippin and Rae Srivastava, visited three classes across U-M’s campus, including courses in engineering, psychology, and literature. Sarah and Rae provided an overview of the company, their performance history, and the repertoire presented while in Ann Arbor. They also led masterclasses at the U-M School of Music, Theatre & Dance, Henry Ford High School, and the Flint School of Performing Arts, teaching students excerpts of Pieces of Tomorrow, choreographed by Ballet BC artistic director Medhi Walerski.

School Day Performance

Ballet BC’s School Day Performance of PASSING introduced grade 4-12 students to choreographer Johan Inger’s powerful exploration of human connection and emotion. Set to an evocative score, the piece moved through themes of vulnerability, relationships, and shared experience, with the audience laughing and delighting in the humorous moment when one dancer “gives birth” to 18 company members.

You Can Dance!

Along with the class visits and masterclasses, Ballet BC dancer Luca Afflitto hosted a free You Can Dance! event at Riverside Arts Center in Ypsilanti, welcoming community members of all ages and skill levels! Luca, from Genova, Italy, started dancing at 11 and trained at the Academie de Danse Princesse Grace in Monte Carlo. After performing with Ballett Zürich and earning the company’s Dance Prize, he joined Ballet BC in 2022, where he’s been lighting up the stage with works by some of today’s top choreographers—now heading into his fourth season with the company!

A Fond Farewell

Ballet BC dancers shared the joy and love of their craft with audiences well beyond our Power Center performances, and we hope to welcome the company back to Ann Arbor in future seasons. Until then, we invite you to follow Ballet BC on Facebook and Instagram.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Ballet BC’s debut performances were funded in part by the Harry A. and Margaret D. Towsley Foundation.