After a long first week back in the studio, tomorrow marks FBP’s first public event of the season:  Collaborations.

Brainchild of FBP principle dancer, Vilia Putrius, this project combines Ms. Putrius’ impeccable aesthetic with the photographic talents of Cemal Ekin and an eclectic selection of the vast array of natural beauty Rhode Island has to offer.  Over the course of a year, twelve dancers from the company were selected and shot in various locations, each portraying a famous character from a major ballet.  The resulting images will be turned into a calendar for the coming new year.  I am so honored to have been included in this stunning series (I got to play Princess Aurora from The Sleeping Beauty for a day- dream come true!), and can hardly wait for the unveiling of the final prints at tomorrow night’s premiere.  In addition to a gallery-showing of the prints and live auction, the company will be holding open rehearsals of our newest works, inviting the public in for an exclusive sneak peek at what’s in store for November’s round of Up Close On Hope.  If you are in the Rhode Island area, do consider stopping by and checking out the collection.  For more information, read what photographer Cemal Ekin has to say about the process and his observed comparisons between visual and performing arts.  For tickets to the event, click here.

photos by Jim Turner and Vilia Putrius