The artistic transformation of Scottish Ballet
Ashley Page’s arrival as Artistic Director of Scottish Ballet in September 2002 signalled a period of change and redevelopment for the company.
Since then, the company has worked from classical ballet roots towards a repertoire which ranges from the neo-classicism of George Balanchine through the work of modern choreographers (such as William Forsythe and Stephen Petronio) and includes a fresh look at 19th century classics (such as The Nutcracker).
Taking the Company out of the limelight for nine months in 2003 was an essential element in the process of redevelopment. An intense period of rehearsal and renewal resulted in a re-launch season in autumn 2003 that exceeded Scottish Ballet’s expectations. It also started a chain of events that has culminated in Scottish Ballet being hailed as ‘world class’ by the media, the politicians and more importantly, the public.
Scottish Ballet hopes to continue to secure work with a softer, more humanist nature. It intends to work with pieces by some of the finest choreographers of late 20th century modern dance (such as Trisha Brown, Merce Cunningham, Richard Alston, Siobhan Davies), not forgetting the new, commissioned work by both home-grown talent and the most vibrant creators from further afield.
“As Artistic Director, it is my task to ensure that the basic needs of training, coaching, creativity and high production values – allied with musical excellence – are monitored and maintained within the Company. I remain geared-up and ebullient about our long-term future, believing that given time and appropriate resources, we can achieve even greater success.”
Ashley Page
May 2004 |