This is a must see for anyone interested in dance, theater, or classical music, not just ballet. It's beautiful - the music, the pictures, the dancing, the memories, the eloquent dancers telling their stories and recalling humorous or painful memories as ballerinas in the greatest ballet comany in the world, the NYC Ballet, all of which shape our understanding and appreciation of George Balanchine, the famous Russian choreographer and its founder - and of ballet itself. It was touching - the awe, affection ..
If you love ballet, you probably already own this. You most likely did what I did and bought on title alone. If you are interested in knowing why the world of dance still holds Balanchine in such high esteem, this will give you a great prespective. You will hear his dancers speak, and their stories are captivating. After watching this film, I believe you will walk away with a respect for his influence on the arts. If you seek out more information on Balanchine, I believe you will be amazed at his life...
I first saw this on PBS - an anthology of interviews with six of the premiere Balachine ballerinas spanning a period of time from the late 40s up until Balachine's retirement and death. Each lady relates their experiences dancing "for Mr. B", with Maria Tallchief's interview being particularly illuminating as she was for a time his wife. The women have praise and admiration (and very little criticism) for their mentor and choreographer, and their work to keep his choreography alive for future generations...
