The Finer Pointes

Let’s be honest. For most people, ballet is just a blur of leaping, turning, and pointed toes. But for the true devotee, there are great differences between the flowing movement of Italy’s Cecchetti and the long lines emphasized by the Balanchine method of the New York City Ballet, not to...

By Gabriela Garcia

September 2, 2010

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Let’s be honest. For most people, ballet is just a blur of leaping, turning, and pointed toes. But for the true devotee, there are great differences between the flowing movement of Italy’s Cecchetti and the long lines emphasized by the Balanchine method of the New York City Ballet, not to mention the grand storytelling of Russia’s Bolshoi style. Confusing the styles would be like walking up to 50 Cent and telling him you love his romantic ballads.

Fear not, aspiring culture snobs. The greatest dancers from 18 of the world’s most famous companies will soon descend on Miami in their freshest tutus and most colorful pointe shoes to show you their moves. This Sunday, attend the International Ballet Festival of Miami’s Closing Grand Gala of the Stars at the Fillmore Miami Beach. Take note of each company’s classical, neoclassical, or contemporary choreography and never again be left out of conversations about famous pas des deux and the beauty of Ballets Russes.
Sun., Sept. 12, 5 p.m., 2010

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