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Sign up now for New York City Ballet in Chicago

Sept. 22, 2006

KALAMAZOO--Partners in Dance of Western Michigan University is sponsoring a trip to see the world-renowned New York City Ballet perform at the Harris Theatre in Chicago, Saturday, Oct. 21.

The cost of the trip is $120 for Partners in Dance members and $130 for non-members. The price includes concert tickets, round-trip motor coach transportation, a box lunch en-route and a lecture, also en route, by Sharon Garber, WMU associate professor of dance.

On the way back to Kalamazoo, the group will eat at the Stevensville, Mich., restaurant Tosi's. Cost of the dinner will be about $25 and includes a non-alcoholic beverage and entree from a selected menu. The price of the meal is in addition to the cost of the trip.

The New York City Ballet, one of the leading dance companies in the world, rarely travels outside New York City, making this appearance a rare chance to see the company perform. Seating is limited, and reservations will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis. The registration and payment deadline is Sept. 26.

The Masterwork Performance will present three classical pieces from its unmatched repertoire, including "Divertimento No. 15" and "The Four Temperaments," choreographed by NYCB co-founder George Balanchine. Jerome Robbins rounds off the program with his piece, "In the Night," with music by Chopin. This piece was created in 1970 for three couples dancing to four of Chopin's familiar "Nocturnes." "In the Night" is bursting with luscious, romantic excellence, while requiring a sharp focus and sense of simplicity for each couple. "Divertimento No. 15" celebrates the courtly manners of classicism, but also incorporates humor as Balanchine makes mischief out of his carefully choreographed lines. This piece demands musicality and speed from its cast, which is common in Balanchine's work. "The Four Temperaments" showcases Balanchine's signature synthesis of classical steps choreographed in a bold and modern style.

Balanchine is regarded as one of the foremost contemporary choreographers in the world, with works revolutionizing the look of American ballet. With more than 400 pieces to his name, his dances are performed all over the country. He has also choreographed for musicals, operas, film and revues.

Partners in Dance supports the programs of the WMU Department of Dance. For more information about Partners in Dance or the trip to Chicago, call (269) 387-5830. Information about Partners in Dance is also available at www.wmich.edu/dance.

Media contact: Mark Schwerin, (269) 387-8400, mark.schwerin@wmich.edu

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