ballettechohio

It's been said that art imitates life. Shall We Dance?, the new show from BALLETTECHOHIO, serves up a concoction of delightful scenarios exploring some situations to which we might relate. Much of the action is set to Gershwin tunes for good measure. Drama, intrigue, jealousy, humor and, of course, romance rise to the surface during the story. A glamorous Broadway dancer (aptly named Ginger, played by musical theater veteran Lise Sovdsnes) becomes the object of affection from afar by a classical ballet dancer, Petrov (played by Val Libertore, the Cincinnati Ballet's principal character dancer). The two end up rather less distant when Petrov follows Ginger on a luxurious ocean liner cruise. The plot thickens with some fun subplots, one being the unexpected appearances of Ginger and Petrov's respective jealous ex-lovers. Add a juicy rumor and see complications arise. Who isn't familiar with the burden of shaky finances in business and the drama it can bring? Clouded by fiscal troubles, a ballet company and a Broadway-style jazz dance troupe are forced to merge for a joint show. Naturally the results are filled with comical moments of rivalry and larger-than-life egos. Perhaps the dancers themselves experienced this tension, as they actually did some dance style cross-training to prepare for this show! This production uses the "show within a show" concept to great effect featuring many styles of dance as entertainment aboard the ship. There's an Egyptian flute dance, tango, salsa and more.

Executive Producer Marvel Gentry Davis emphasized ballet-techohio's unique position regarding the inclusion of young dance pupils from its studio in full-scale, professional productions. She notes, "It helps draw youngsters into the art of dance. They see someone like themselves and say, 'Gosh, I could do that!' "

With extensive choreography from founding Artistic Director Claudia Rudolf Barrett and a cast of talented dancers -- including some "surprise guests" -- you can expect an entertaining escape from the downside of daily life. Or at least see them in a lighter context as real life meets performance. Shall We Dance? happens at the Aronoff Center's Jarson-Kaplan Theater Friday and Saturday. Tickets: 513-241-SHOW.