On new episode of ‘The Munro Review on CMAC,’ meet dancers in this weekend’s ballet. Plus: GCP’s ‘Kalamazoo’
The latest episode of “The Munro Review on CMAC” is here, and it includes an inspiring interview segment focusing on one of this weekend’s biggest events: The ballet version of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (6:30 p.m. Saturday, March 18, at the Saroyan Theatre). The ballet is a collaboration between Fresno Ballet Theatre (under the umbrella of the Valley Performing Arts Council) and the esteemed State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara.
Are you a member of The Munro Review? Win a pair of tickets to ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ by leaving a comment on this post. Deadline is 9 a.m. Friday, March 17.
In the segment we meet two impressive young dancers: Olyvia Stafford and Teigan Davis. They are among the local dancers performing with professionals from the State Street Ballet. Talk about amazing stories: Along with dancing ballet, Davis is a civil engineering major at Fresno State; and 15-year-old Olyvia has been selected for the Alvin Alley American Dance Theatre Summer Program in New York. They are joined by Fresno Ballet Theatre’s artistic director, Yukari Thiesen, who has an inspiring tale of her own to tell.
In the second studio segment, my guests are Amelia Ryan, star of the very funny new Good Company Players show “Kalamazoo” at the 2nd Space Theatre; and director Kristin Crase. This two-person show is about a couple of widowed 70-somethings who connect on a senior dating app. Much hilarity ensues, along with a touching reflection on the ways that lonely people can come together.
Here’s the episode:
I hope you enjoy. And please share the YouTube link!
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Jackie Ryle
This was an especially delightful segment. Thank you, Donald. It’s lovely to see these charming young dancers, and so inspiring to hear dear Yukari’s personal story. Just loved Amy’s monologue! I’m sorry to miss the ballet, and now more than ever looking forward to Kalamazoo! Thank you again, Donald, for keeping us up to date on Fresno’s vibrant arts scene!