March 2006 Photo Blog

March provided a great deal of variety - and several unique experiences in Modern, Jazz, Ballet, and Flamenco.

The month began with Spankdance's Greyhounds and Other Virtual Ways to Travel. The photographic challenge was the space and low lighting. Dance Houston Does Houston was an interesting project, with several choreographers tying in a storyline involving Houston and Houstonians (including mosquitoes and mosquito hawks). ACDFA provided a wonderful opportunity to experience a variety of styles and choreography in a few days. I do not get the opportunity to shoot such so many performances and moods in such a short time. A great time to test/explore new techniques as well.

Ballet San Antonio and the San Antonio Jazz Ensemble presented an appropriately mixed repertory titled, Entangled, at the Carver. It was very refreshing to see Classical Ballet for the first time this year. The company is an impressive one, especially considering the size. Immediately following was Academia de Arte Flamenco 'Historias Flamencas". I rarely get to see this genre, and this is the third time I shot Flamenco. It was a wonderful program, repeating Olivia Chacon's First Night Austin commissioned program, "De Noche", which I had missed capturing in December 2005. Several solos, including the captivating Antonio Granjero from Spain graced the second half of the program.

Ballet Austin's Directors Choice provides some wonderful visual treat as well. It was a "then and now" program. Stephen Mill's and Gina Patterson's first Ballet Austin commissions complimented their latest works in a single evening. The month ended with Atash's Global Harmony show, including belly dancing. It was a rare treat as I do not get the chance to shoot music and belly dancers often. Although I missed Ad Deum's performance this month, some of the pieces they performed can be viewed in the Dance gallery titled "Wondrous Beasts" from last Fall.

April, although the International Dance Month, in some ways should be a quieter month.I will miss 4 interesting presentations due to training. Please note that the March photos are being staggered for viewing, as time becomes available, and artistic directors give their approval. So please revisit if you do not find the photos. Visit the Music and Dance galleries at http://insightphotography.smugmug.com