HOPE MUIR | DURATION: 56 MINUTES
Airdate: June 20, 2018
Hope Muir is artistic director of Charlotte Ballet. Her first season as artistic director in 2017-18 included the introduction of eight new choreographers to the company, the creation of five new ballets, and two ballets making American premieres. Before joining Charlotte Ballet, Hope was assistant artistic director at the Scottish Ballet. She has taught classical and contemporary dance at The National Ballet of Canada, English National Ballet, Rambert Dance Company and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures Company. She had a 20-year career as a dancer. She was a founding member of London Festival Ballet School, then joined the company (now English National Ballet) before dancing for the Rambert Dance Company in London and later Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. In the summer of 2018, Hope will serve as a guest artist for The School at Jacob's Pillow.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the work of an artistic director of a ballet company and a career in ballet and modern dance.
IN THIS EPISODE
Hope reflects on her first year as artistic director of the Charlotte Ballet and what surprised her.
She describes what someone would have seen if they watched the ballet The Most Incredible Thing and the significance of presenting it.
She considers the responsibility of artistic directors to connect what is on stage with social realities in the world.
Hope answers whether she would stage gay and lesbian themes on stage.
She explains how she assesses a dancer, what traits in a dancer she is drawn to and excites her, whether there is space on stage for older dancers.
Hope talks about deciding what not to do, what choreographers she would like to bring to Charlotte, and the 'bespoke repertoire' she wants to create.
She remembers growing up in Toronto, the turning point in her dance career and what she learned about herself as a young dancer.
Hope answers whether the Charlotte Ballet is a stepping-stone job for her and whether she would take the call to become the artistic director of a national ballet company.
plus Mark's Personal Word Essay: Exploring A New Tangent
To Learn More About Hope
Questions
What struck you about Hope's comments?
Should ballet address socially-controversial topics?
Do you prefer classical or contemporary dance?
What informs you intellectually?
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This episode is sponsored by Blumenthal Performing Arts, celebrating its 25th year presenting the best in performing arts.
Further support is provided by Charlotte Mecklenburg Library, one of America’s leading urban public libraries, delivering exceptional services and programs, with a mission to improve lives and build a stronger community.
And by the Arts & Science Council, Charlotte-Mecklenburg's resource hub and lead advocate for the regional cultural community, providing Culture for All.
Additional support is provided by the UNC College of Arts + Architecture, celebrating a decade of creative education in the arts and design.
