Sedona Ballet’s Choreography Retreat: June 11-20 Unleashes Creative Talents

Sedona Ballet is partnering with Ballet Arizona for the inaugural Sedona Choreography Retreat at the Sedona Performing Arts Center, running from June 11 to June 20. The event will feature a master class for local dance students, rehearsals of previous and new works, and discussions with dancers, choreographers, and designers.

“The retreat serves as a creative workshop for new choreography, culminating in a final performance,” said Sedona Ballet founder Winnie Muench. Ballet Arizona will showcase the pas de deux from “Take Me With You,” choreographed by Robert Bondara. Muench described the piece as a powerful and unforgettable experience.

Retreat Events

The retreat will kick off with closed rehearsals on June 11 and 12, followed by a master class at 2 p.m. on June 13. Open rehearsals will take place on June 16 and 17 at 1:30 p.m., while artist talks are scheduled from June 16 to 18 at 11 a.m. and on June 19 at 10 a.m.

During these discussions, Ballet Arizona dancers will share insights into their careers. Mary Byrd from the Fine Art Museum of Sedona will discuss the collaborations between famed choreographer George Balanchine and local artist Dorothea Tanning. Choreographers Nayon Iovino and LaTasha Barnes will delve into their creative processes, while composer Christel Veraart will outline her composition techniques.

Friday, June 20 Performance

The retreat’s finale on June 20 will feature a 7 p.m. performance showcasing works by Balanchine, Bondara, and Natasha Adorlee. New pieces will include “Santa Fe and Esmeralda,” choreographed by Iovino, alongside “The Flow State Project” by Barnes. Veraart will also premiere her latest album, “Nostalgia: Reflections on Argentina,” which inspired Iovino’s choreography.