Ballet BC dancer Gilbert Small says enjoy the ride

For ballet dancer Gilbert Small, the east coast of North America may have been where he trained, but after receiving an  invitation to join Ballet BC from Artistic Director Emily Molnar, he made the trek across the continent to make Vancouver his home.

As his first full-time gig with a professional dance company, Small sees Ballet BC as another step in what brought him to dance in the first place.  “I wanted to be a dancer because I felt it was a great way for me to truly express myself”.   And with a full programme set for the 2010/2011 Ballet BC season, Small will have a number of opportunities to express himself.

First up, in its season opener, Ballet BC presents “Songs of a Wayfarer + other works”.  Included in what Small describes as a very mixed show, are the Vancouver premieres of the title piece from Molnar plus “Face to Face” from Ballet Mannheim Artistic Director Kevin O’Day and the world premiere of “the bliss that from their limbs all movement takes” from Quebec-based choreographer José Navas.

“All of the pieces are completely different with something for everyone to enjoy.” said Small. “There's beautiful pointe work and partnering in Emily Molnar's “Songs of a Wayfarer”, O'Day's “Face to Face” is more physical grounded work, while Navas' Bliss is high in energy and a world wind of movement.”

While the dances are varied, Small says that they should all be seen from the same eyes, especially for anyone that might not have had the opportunity to take in a ballet before.  “Keep your mind open and enjoy the ride with the performers.”

Indeed, that ride is one that Vancouverites have been waiting for two years to be on as this will be the company’s first full season since its financial troubles in 2008.

Ballet BC:  Songs of a Wayfarer and other works
18 - 20 November 2010
Queen Elizabeth Theatre

Tickets are available online or by calling 604.280.3311.  Visit http://www.balletbc.com for more information.