Slowly but surely, Miami has developed cultural institutions and organizations that have been grounded for more than a decade — book and film fairs, museums, nonprofit presenters, and, for the 18th year in a row, the International Ballet Festival of Miami. Under the direction of Cuban-born, classically trained Pedro Pablo Peña, this year’s fest is bigger than ever, running this Thursday through September 8 and featuring ballet performances from companies and principal dancers from nine countries. Also included in the program are a dance film series, an art exhibit, and workshops spanning five days, all scattered about various venues in Miami-Dade. As for performances, up-and-coming dancers are showcased in the Youth American Grand Prix this Friday at 8 p.m., followed by the Contemporary Dance Performance this Sunday at 5 p.m. and culminating with the Gala of the Stars, which includes award presentations, Sunday, September 8, beginning at 5 p.m., at the Fillmore Miami Beach (1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach).
Aug. 29-Sept. 8, 2013