OMAHA — May 26, 2015 — Company dancer Sasha York — along with artistic director Erika Overturff, ballet master Matthew Carter, and student members of American Midwest Ballet II and Senior Repertory Ensemble — recently visited Children’s Hospital and Medical Center to perform for patients.
The live performance was also broadcast to patients’ rooms so those unable to leave their rooms could still see the show. Ballet master Matthew Carter, who works directly with both student groups, discussed the works performed which included an original ballet he created. York held a partnering demonstration and led the question and answer session.
The student dance groups prepared for their visit by rehearsing variations from Momentum: International Masters with American Midwest Ballet company dancers Vivi DiMarco, Ryan Christopher and Stephen James in the weeks prior to the performance. They also performed a contemporary work choreographed for them by BNII instructor, Erin Alarcon. Ensemble dancers performed works from their repertory taught throughout the season by instructors Kelsey Schwenker and Carter.
“Bringing ballet and other dance forms to those who would otherwise be unable to attend a show is among the core missions of American Midwest Ballet,’ said Overturff. “The outreach opportunities also provide a fulfilling and enriching experience for the student dancers, as well.”