DanceLife Blog

Over 65,000 new seats will go on sale 9am Monday 21 July as The Phantom of the Opera gets ready to leave Sydney.

"The Sydney audiences have been fantastic," said co-producer Tim McFarlane.   "Our limited season has been very well received and certainly sales reflect this."

John Frost, co-producer said "We are half way through our tour and the production is set to open in New Zealand on October 14.  Sydney will need to get in quick to not miss out."

The Phantom of the Opera opened in Sydney May 15 and is currently playing The Lyric Theatre, Star City

The Phantom of the Opera is the longest running musical on Broadway, having recently celebrated 21 years since its debut in London's West End, and has won more than 50 major theatre awards, including seven Tony Awards. It's been 11 years since the musical was last performed in Sydney.

The Phantom of the Opera tells the story of a disfigured musical genius known only as ‘The Phantom' who haunts the depths of the Paris Opera House.  Mesmerised by the talents and beauty of a young soprano - Christine, the Phantom lures her as his protégé and falls fiercely in love with her.  Unaware of Christine's love for Raoul, The Phantom's obsession sets the scene for a dramatic turn of events where jealously, madness and passions collide.

With spectacular sets and more than 230 costumes by international designer, the late Maria Björnson, The Phantom of the Opera contains some of Andrew Lloyd Webber's most famous music, including ‘The Phantom of the Opera' and ‘Music of the Night'.

Tickets are on sale through ticketmaster 1300 795 267 or www.ticketmaster.com.au

 A little hot and flustered is how I was feeling when I walked into Sydney Theatre last night to see Rafael Bonachela's ‘We Unfold'. As I looked around I noticed quite a mix of people, from commercial dancers to families to the arty type. This show has been pretty heavily marketed with their usual bus stop posters and cafe postcards so it was great to see a packed house.

The theatre went pitch black and I mean black. I couldn't even see the people sitting next to me, complete darkness. The performance started with all of the dancers standing towards the back of the stage in what could only be described as beige underwear with the two lead female dancers having some crystals on their costumes. The massive screen behind the dancers was very effective although simple and the music started to build. The opening was strong although the two lead female dancers when dancing together in the first piece were out of unison. Other than that the first piece was powerful and amazing to watch.

I was completely amazed by the formations made in this performance. Rafael is a true stage master when it comes to working with the space on the stage. I truly admired how hard he must work on plotting out each show. The partner work was equally as engaging and I enjoyed watching the outstanding cast work so well together in many combination.

I don't know what dancer could performance in a Bonachela's piece for one hour without hardly breaking a sweat but these dancers did. The athleticism of the cast was phenomenal. Definitely made me stop eating chocolate during the show.

The show finishes on Saturday so get your tickets now. http://www.sydneytheatre.org.au/event.asp?pID=175

SX Article

It's been a tough couple of years for Sydney Dance Company. But as revered guest choreographer Kenneth Kvarnstrom, who has created a new worked for the troupe, says, the dancers are a resilient lot.

When Rafael Bonachela took the reins of Sydney Dance Company as Artistic Director at the beginning of the year, he announced that the work of guest choreographers from around the world would make up a significant proportion of the company's creative output. True to this word, Kenneth Kvarnstrom's Mercury will premiere next week at Sydney Theatre.

"I'm very happy to be here," Kvarnstrom tells SX. "I now have to prove myself as a choreographer and show Rafael he didn't bid on the wrong horse!"

Sydney Dance Company has been through a tough couple of years. The retirement of co-artistic directors Graeme Murphy and Janet Vernon after three decades at the helm in 2006 was cruelly followed by the tragic death of newly-appointed artistic director Tania Liedtke the following year. As the company again went on a world-wide search for Liedtke's replacement, 2008 saw three new works by three guest choreographers. But the dancers, Kvarnstrom says, are very resilient.

"Of course the company has gone through a big change, but they are very dedicated - and very good. I hope it will slowly settle down - and it is - but even now two dancers are leaving after Mercury. But the dancers never bring what happens outside into the studio.

"Certainly, the company needs to build up its reputation again around the world - but I think there's a lot of interest since Rafael was appointed. I feel that people are looking at the company right now."

Read the rest of the interview here

Mercury - Sydney Dance Company
Date: November 17th- 28th
Venue: Sydney Theatre
Tickets: $20-$70
Contact: To make a booking by phone, contact Sydney Theatre on (02) 9250 1999

Internet Bookings www.sydneytheatre.org.au
www.sydneydancecompany.com

The amount of dance related television shows around the world is on the increase. I arrived home in Australia just a few weeks ago having been invited to appear as a special guest performer on a British based dance competition for television, ‘Got To Dance' for Sky1 UK. I choreographed and tapped with Adam Garcia, one of the judges on Got To Dance. The other 2 judges are Ashley Banjo from hip-hop crew Diversity who won Britain's Got Talent in 2009 and Pussycat Doll, Kimberly Wyatt. The major difference between SYTYCD format and that of Sky1's new dance offering Got To Dance is that everyone gets a go. The contestants are dancers of all ages and all genres. For instance, the contestants that I saw ranged from a group of classical performers aged between 5 and 15 yrs, to an all girl hip hop crew of teenagers competing against a male and female Irish tapping couple, to an 8 yr old break dancer. The latter, by the name of Akai won the season final BTW. The 2nd and most interesting difference between the two formats is the fact that the judges on Got To Dance all performed. Every competition needs a judge, wouldn't it be nice to see them perform and show us how it's done, particularly after the opinion and suggestions offered? Remember, you can't spell guidance without dance. Got To Dance is on Sundays @ 6.30pm on Fox 8.

One of the most important events to hit Sydney this century is the inaugural The Sydney Fringe. From September 10 - 26 the theatres and streets of the Newtown, Marrickville and Enmore areas will play host to what is shaping up to be a rich underground event. Fringe festivals worldwide are the incubation of emerging artists and projects. Often obscure and pushing the boundaries of entertainment, most are simple in nature and most importantly interesting. I had the pleasure to choreograph and perform at the Edinburgh (Fringe) Festival in 1999 and it was a hive of activity. I witnessed performances as far ranging as; one of the first hip-hop shows to be theatrically produced (this was cutting edge at the time and now look at the scene); a robot dog comedy act; Lady Salsa, high energy Cuban dance show; the entire cast of The Simpsons sitting on a stage reading a never before aired script. To find out more and check out how to submit your idea for a dance act, visit thesydneyfringe.com.au

The Production Company is entering its 12th year. What this company does for musical theatre in this country cannot be matched and is a valuable asset to the Australian entertainment industry. For years TPC has produced short seasons of shows that otherwise would never have seen the light of day in this country. They have made available an opportunity for singers, dancers, actors and the many combinations therein, to perform roles they would never had the occasion to do so otherwise. The Production Company has announced it's season for 2010, with another great 3 shows. They will include The King And I starring Juan Jackson (Miss Saigon) as the King and Chelsea Gibb (Chicago - The Musical) as Anna. Second on the menu is The Boy From Oz and reprising his starring role is the man himself, Todd McKenney, followed by the third instalment from TPC, Sugar based on the film Some Like It Hot, this production will star Mitchel Butel (Avenue Q), Matt Heatherington and Christie Whelan (The Drowsy Chaperone) who will play the Marilyn Munroe character. Yours truly is choreographing. If you have never seen a Production Company show, this is a must. If you have aspirations of joining the company as a performer check out their website theproductioncompany.com.au for audition dates.

Chris Horsey can be heard every week from 9.30am as he presents Arts Friday on Eastside Radio 89.7fm
- is on the artistic advisory committee for The Sydney Fringe
- is artistic director of Tapworks - www.tapworks.com.au

Sydney Dance Company's poster boy Adam Blanch sat down with Christine Denny to chat about working with the company, how he got a place in the company and loads more. Check out our next On The Couch With Christine from TapatakOz above.

Adam Blanch was born in the Hunter Valley and trained with Karen Thomas and Marie Walton Mahon, before entering The Australian Ballet School. He toured to Paris in 2001 as a student at the School, performing at Danses de Mai in works by Natalie Weir and Mark Annear. Adam then joined The Queensland Ballet under the direction of Francois Klaus and was promoted to soloist in 2005. He was invited to join Sydney Dance Company and making his debut at the 2006 Shanghai International Festival in performances of Graeme Murphy's Grand. He has since toured throughout Australia and to the United States in 2007. Sydney Dance Company Repertoire Rafael Bonachela's 360o, Stephen Petronio's Underland, Meryl Tankard's INUK2; Graeme Murphy's Underland, Grand, Berlin and Ever After Ever (appearing in highlights from Ellipse, Air and other invisible forces, Tivoli), and the premiere of Short Stories). Other Credits: William Forsythe's Approximate Sonata, John Neumeier's Vaslav, Stephan Thoss' Black Swan pas de deux from Swan Lake, Natalie Weir's When Angels Weep, The Last Song, Wuthering Heights and in One Note Rag from Paul Boyd's Twist of Broadway.

DanceLife caught up with Dance Captain of Candyman Veronica Beattie last week to have a chat about the show and the process of putting the show together. See the interview about and read more about Veronica below. Remember Candyman opens this Saturday! Make sure you check it out!

Sat 27 June to Sun 5 July 2009
Theatre Royal
King St Sydney

BOOK NOW! www.ticketek.com.au

Sydney born Veronica Beattie completed her certificate in Performing Arts at David Atkins' Dynamite Dance Studios in 1996 and since has enjoyed a successful and versatile career in entertainment. In a ten year period, Veronica has amassed an impressive repertoire in musical theatre, enabling her to showcase her classic style. In 2006, Veronica had the pleasure of performing in the Australian Production of the The Boy from Oz, starring Tony award winning Hugh Jackman.

Veronica has also performed in Graham Murphy's Tivoli with the Sydney Dance Company and the Brisbane season of the hit musical The Wizard of Oz. Twice Veronica was called upon to perform in Grease. She toured Australia and New Zealand in the original tour of Grease -the Arena Spectacular in 1998 and in 1995 as Dance Captain. Her love of the more stylised musical pieces was realized when she was honoured to kick up heels for Baz Luhrman as the tattooed can-can dancer in Moulin Rouge. In addition prior to filming Veronica enjoyed being a part of the workshop team.

Outside of theatre performance, Veronica has travelled extensively for many corporate events and product launches. More recently the demand for Veronica as a commercial dancer has seen her perform on The Midday Show and work for choreographer/ directors such as John O'Connell, Rickard Wherrett, William A Forsythe, Keith Hawley, Kelley Abbey, Alana Scanlan and Ross Coleman.

Veronica has previously performed with Wayne at the Jupiter's Casino in Rhonda Burchmore's Fever for the Live at the J series.

DanceLife went to Melbourne last year to go and see Wicked and to have a chat with one of the stars of the show Lucy Durack who plays Glinda. In case you missed the interview we thought we would post it as Wicked opnes in Sydney on Friday. Watch part 2 of the interview here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSqXc2Ylvmw

Lucy has fast become one of Australia's rising young leading ladies of musical theatre with a list of major roles to her credit including Peggy Sawyer in 42nd Street, Miss Dorothy in the Australian Premiere of Thoroughly Modern Millie, Lois Lane/Bianca in Kiss Me Kate, Rikki Rose in Respect and Laurey in Oklahoma!.

Originally hailing from Perth, Lucy graduated from the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) with a Bachelor of Arts (Music Theatre) and prior to graduating was cast in the Brisbane and Sydney seasons of Mamma Mia! in which she understudied and performed the role of Sophie.

Lucy's screen credits include the lead role of Cassie Bennett on Channel 7's Headland, All Saints, the Australian feature film Finding Nigel and the worldwide broadcast of the BBC2 Voice of Musical Theatre Competition in Cardiff in which she was a finalist.

While regularly performing in concert with various orchestras throughout Australia, Lucy's cabaret appearances include Immaculate Confection which toured to Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Tasmania and the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, All Star Cabaret for the Sydney Theatre Company, Cavalcade for His Majesty's Theatre, Perth, and the 2003 Sydney Cabaret Convention for which she received the Judges' Award for her work with Matthew Robinson.

Lucy has a firm commitment to workshopping and performing new Australian work, having created roles for Mel Morrow and David Mitchell's The Palace Whore, Nick Enright and David King's The Good Fight, John Shand's Rainbow's End (including the subsequent SBS recording), Guy Noble's Karaoke The Musical and Matthew Robinson's Pratt Prize-winning musical Metro Street.

For more interviews please look at our YouTube Page www.youtube.com/dancelifeaustralia

Wicked opens in Sydney on Friday at the Capitol Theatre. To purchase your tickets please go to www.ticketmaster.com.au.

In one weeks time the smash hit Broadway musical ‘Spring Awakening' will be opening at The Sydney Theatre Company with an all Australian cast.
Based on Frank Wedekind's controversial play of 1891, this bold new musical tells the tale of a group of teenagers embarking on the thrilling, turbulent transition from youth to adulthood.

Wendla begs her mother to explain where babies come from only to be fobbed off with mumblings about ‘the stork'. Melchior, more advanced in his sexual education, has been studying diagrams that would bring tears to the eyes of his elders. On a stormy, spring afternoon Wendla and Melchior succumb to desire. Fumbling their way into one another's arms, they learn the joys of sexual awakening. Only later will they learn of its potential to devastate.

Spring Awakening won eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and has since become a music theatre phenomenon throughout the world, garnering a cult following wherever it has travelled. Driven by an exceptional score ranging from power ballads to grunge anthems that capture the spine-tingling highs and lows of youthful desire, this exuberant musical has all the energy of a rock concert and all the power of a great drama.

A new generation of performers - cast from open auditions across Australia - burst on to the Sydney Theatre stage for the hotly-anticipated Australian premiere of Spring Awakening. It may be 1891 but when these exceptional singers burst into song they express electric inner worlds that will be instantly recognisable to anyone who is - or ever was - a teenager.

Watch an interview above with the choreographer Kate Champion where she talks about being a part of the show and how it was for her choreographing the Australian production of this award winning show.

For more information on Spring Awakening go to www.springawakeninginaustralia.com.au  

Fast becoming notorious for reworking vintage gems from the 60s, 70s and 80s, Sydney's hilarious female trio, The Margaritas, serve up a delicious mix of cabaret and burlesque with a deliciously wicked sense of humour. Tart and complex with a hint of bitterness, these sophisticated temptresses will add some of your old favourites into the blender and serve them up with a twist for Mardi Gras 2010. NB: Creators Jackeline Laso, Nathalie Cotte, Natalie McCormack. DanceLife caught up with the girls to chat about their new show 'On The Rocks'.

1. Tell us how you found each other and formed 'The Margarita's'?

We knew each other for a while working together in the entertainment industry. We were all at a point in our careers where we wanted to create our own project and manage ourselves.

We all have a very kooky sense of humour. So finding each other was a blessing as it is not easy finding people you can work together on a creative level as well as being good friends.

2. You are all triple threat performers. Do you think this is a key ingredient to creating a successful show?

It really depends on the show itself. For our particular show it works well to have experience in singing, dancing and acting as it draws on all of them. In general it is very useful to be versatile but it really depends on what you want to do and the show you are trying to create. Some shows run more on just the music and musical talent, some just on dance and then others such as musicals tend to draw on all 3 elements. We are a vocal group - a band if you will, but we bring in theatrical elements such as dance, movement, costumes, and characterisations which suits our show and adds to the entertainment value of it.

Also, comedy is a big ingredient for us and during our creative process and rehearsals, we often go beyond the realms of good taste/what's possible but it's this over-zealous approach that gleans the best results. Often one of us might say "Now I know this isn't possible, but what if we had naked men/fireworks/an albatross colony interrupt the last verse of this song...?" Triple threat ability is very handy obviously, but the fact that we are creatively inspired, believe we're offering something unique and immensely enjoy what we do really shines through in performances and is key to the success of our shows.

3. We last saw you in Slurp, Don't Sip which received standing ovations and rave reviews. How do generate new show ideas and where do you get your inspiration from?

We tend to each be inspired by different songs and have a base idea or 'vision' for it. We'll workshop it together and something will grow out of that. We draw inspiration from so many different sources mainly the music or song itself - artists we like, pop culture, movies, everyday life situations - pretty much everything and anything.

We choose songs and part-parody part-tribute them - usually endeavouring to insert an unexpected twist at some point, or giving the song an unusual flavour or theme. It may be a song people will have heard many times, but they will have never seen it presented the way The Margaritas do it! We're inspired by many varied and legendary vocalists, from James Brown to Kate Bush, and our choreography ranges from classical ballet to waacking (one of our members Jackeline Laso has studied in New York). A comedic influence is Benny Hill - although it's more like we are the buxom young ladies and Benny rolled into one!

4. Recently you were seen busting out into song throughout Sydney's public transport system. How effective was this strategy in getting your name out there?

It was great! We definitely lightened up people's faces when we sang and from what we could tell, the public really enjoyed it. It would have been pretty memorable considering it's not what you see every day. One lady approached us and hired us for her daughter's 21st.

It was like small-scale flash-mobbing and was a very pro-active way of getting out there and making the public aware of us. I cherished seeing people smiling on public transport.

5. Tell us what we can expect to see in your new show 'On The Rocks' which will debut at Sydney's Seymour Centre's from 25th March?

It will be a pastiche of vintage songs which we interpret in our own special way. Lots of colour, movement and song laced with our own special brand of humour as we add our own twist to a very eclectic soundtrack! There are lots of surprises install. Cheeeeecky.... is what I can say. It's a very exciting show!!

THE MARGARITAS IN ‘ON THE ROCKS' (25 Feb- 6 Mar Thu-Sat 9.30pm, $18-25, Seymour Centre, Downstairs Theatre)
Bookings & More Info: Box Office P: 02 9351 7940 W: www.seymourcentre.com  

Here is our first interview with one of the stars of CATS, Shaun Rennie who plays Munkustrap in the musical.

1. You have played the role of Munkustrap both in Asia and now in Australia. How do the audiences compare? Do you notice a difference?

Absolutely. Many of the cities we have visited in Asia have never seen a western style musical before, especially in China, so therefore there is a real sense of wonderment from the audience. There is also a tendency for Asian audiences to be very enthusiastic... to the point of frenzied fans screaming for the sake of screaming, whereas in Australia, I have found the audiences to be much more honest in their response. When we have a great show, we are rewarded justly. I always feel that in Australia, the audience is "with us" much more.

2. What was the audition process like? How heavily did you have to rely on your skills as a triple threat performer to snag the role?

The audition was very intense, especially as someone who considers themselves a singer/dancer. I remember walking into the room, being surrounded by all these incredible dancers and feeling very intimidated. It most definitely pushed me to my limits both vocally and physically. Thats the great thing about CATS tho, it really does require you to use all of your skills and training. The other great thing about the show is, that there are so many different roles in the show, and each one requires a different set of skills. So yes, everyone needs to be able to sing and dance, but certain roles require different actors to be have different strengths. I could see this for early on in the audition process, and that helped ease my nerves a little.

3. You have completed some extensive training throughout your years as a performer. What would be your number one tip when looking for somewhere to train and gain more skills?

Oh that always relies on the individual and what is going to suit them best. For some people it's going to WAPPA or NIDA, for some it's doing private singing lessons and attending dance classes. I did the NIDA musical theatre course, and I do believe that it gave me a very strong set of skills and techniques that I still use today, however I understand that a full time course such as NIDA or WAPPA does not suit everybody, so I suggest to get out and do as many drop in classes as possible.

4. Light The Night is an Annual Benefit Concert you produce for Leukemia research. Can you tell us how you started this venture?

Light the Night is inspired by my younger brother Matthew. Matt was diagnosed with leukaemia back in 2004 when he was 21 years old. Having to watch my brother fight this disease, and not being able to do much for him ourselves was very frustrating. Light the Night was our way of helping. The original idea was to put on a small concert and raise Matt's cancer ward a few thousand dollars, however the idea grew and grew and its now been five years, and we have raised over $250,000 for leukaemia research. Sadly, Matt passed away in 2007, but Light the Night continues as his legacy and is continuing to grow and help others fighting this horrible disease.

5. When you're not on the road with Cats what are you doing?

Resting!!! Life on tour is pretty crazy at times, so generally when I am home in Sydney I just like to hang out with my mates and my family. I did just go on a holiday to London in our last break, which was amazing.

6. Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?

Still working in this amazing industry. I am truly happy to have been able to make a living out of doing what I love, as long as I am able to continue doing that, I'll be happy.

Cats is playing in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Go to www.showbiz.com.au for all ticket information.

Sydney Dance Company will bring its popular brand of adult dance classes to western Sydney this October when it opens its first studio classes in Parramatta's Connection Arcade.

"Sydney Dance Company Studios has been running public dance classes from its Walsh Bay studios since 1976", explains Sydney Dance Company Studios Director, Ramon Doringo, "and we are very excited to have our first ever branch in western Sydney. The new Connection Studios in Parramatta are bright, well equipped, professional dance spaces and will be a great home away from home for us."

"We are hoping that our Parramatta-based classes will attract as much interest as our city-based classes, and we look forward to expanding the schedule of classes over time," said Sydney Dance Company Executive Producer Noel Staunton.

Classes at Parramatta's Connection Studios will commence on Wednesday, October 22 and are open to adults aged 16yrs+ only. The initial schedule will include HIP HOP with Ilona Fabiszewski and JAZZ with Stephen Tannos. Both Ilona and Stephen regularly teach their popular dance styles at Sydney Dance Company's Walsh Bay studios.

Classes commence Wednesday 22 October 2008
Cost: $18 casual visit or $150 for a 10 class pass (conc. $140)
Where: Connection Studios at Connection Arcade, Level 1, 162 Church St, Parramatta
When: Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings
Access: Connection Arcade is accessible from either Church St Mall or Darcy St, and is moments from both Parramatta Train Station and Westfield Parramatta.

For more details, logon to www.sydneydancecompany.com.

WSDA and Parramatta City Council will be presenting two days of live performances in the Parramatta Mall Amphitheatre precinct, on Church St and adjacent to the historical St John's Church and surrounding courtyard.

There are heaps of workshops happening this week so check out the webiste. http://www.wsda.org.au

Western Sydney Dance Action celebrates Dance Week 4-9 May

Come and see live performances by..
• youMove Youth Dance
• What's Tappening!
• What is Jazz?

Thursday May 7
youMove youth dance performing a high energy jump rope exhibition featuring live bongo drummers
Proudly supported by the Heart Foundation

Friday May 8
An explosive, dynamic acapella tap piece performed by What's Tappening? Collective-Thomas Egan, Nathan Scully and Matt Pappa.
PLUS...
What is Jazz? A suave, elegant cabaret tribute to traditional 1940s jazz music and featuring dancers Veronica Beattie-Guys and Dolls, Sally Hare-SYTYCD top 100, and Shannon Greenshill-Bootmen

Performance times on both days 12.30 and 1.30
Come and support these talented artists!
Looking forward to seeing you there-and to find out about more dance activity or to join WSDA and receive free tickets and info to all upcoming projects and auditions simply hit http://www.wsda.org.au

We all know the story of Dorothy and her adventures down the yellow brick road but have you ever wondered what tricks those witches in The Wizard of Oz got up to in their formative years? Wonder no more. After a 13-month season in Melbourne Wicked the Untold Story of the Witches of Oz is playing its last show on 9 August and flying into Sydney on a big broomstick to fill you in on some emerald-green details. "It will be 60 weeks since we began previews at The Regent and 464 performances since opening night. And what an exhilarating 60 weeks!' says John Frost, Australian co-Producer of Wicked.

Sydney faced one of its biggest theatrical tests yesterday when tickets for the Capitol Theatre season of the Broadway blockbuster musical Wicked went on sale through Ticketmaster.

The show broke several box office records in Melbourne, where it opened at the Regent Theatre a year ago. It will play in Melbourne until August and while full houses are no longer a regular sight, the show has very much held its own.

The Capitol Theatre season starts on September 5 and solid pre-bookings are crucial. There has been an extensive marketing campaign across television, radio and newspapers in the last two weeks promoting that tickets go on sale yesterday.

Wicked is unique," said the Australian production's co-Producer John Frost.

"It's a phenomenon, quite unlike any other musical. It comes with all the blockbuster bells and whistles, certainly. But aside from its spectacle, wonderful lyrics and score, its wit and warmth, Wicked also touches other, unexpected, and intriguing emotions."

When Wicked opened on Broadway, it worked its magic on critics and audiences alike winning 20 major awards including three Tony Awards and a Grammy Award.

Wicked has not officially announced a Sydney cast but the majority of the Melbourne company is expected to travel north.

Sydney bookings: 1300 723 038 or www.ticketmaster.com.au.

In response to the need for rehearsal venues and regular opportunities to create and perform, this unique collective of professional Sydney-based dancers came together in 2005 to form DirtyFeet. The company continues today as a Not for Profit organisation driven by two of the founding members, Anthea Doropoulos and Sarah Fiddaman.

DirtyFeet represents a new form of Dance Company designed by dancers, about dancers, for dancers.

DirtyFeet's sold-out debut season in 2008, Under the Weather, was nominated for Australian Dance Awards in three categories. Following the success of the season, DirtyFeet now presents Tipping Point.

The show will feature new short works by acclaimed choreographers Vicki Van Hout and Martin del Amo and a film by Eva Fernandez Adan/Rachael Brown. Vicki Van Hout, known for her signature fusion of indigenous dance and contemporary techniques, returns to DirtyFeet with Pack, a piece exploring the dynamics surrounding animal packs and the comparisons we can draw in our own lives.

Independent dance artist Martin del Amo is probably best known for his full-length solos integrating idiosyncratic movement with intimate storytelling. In his first work for DirtyFeet, The Reset Quintet, he has created an intriguing dance piece for 5 performers that looks at what happens when we start afresh, wipe the slate clean so to speak. Or do we only think we do? Won't there always be traces of what has gone before?

Founding DirtyFeet member, Eva Fernandez Adan and video artist Rachael Brown have collaborated to create the latest chapter of Pieces of Mind (featured at "Short Sweet and Dance" and "Under the Weather") for film. A powerful work that features Adan's passion for high energy dynamic dance combined with Brown's intricate understanding of movement on screen, Pieces of Mind creates a physical language for a personal journey that will resonate and remain with every audience member.

Tipping Point is an exciting foray into the world of contemporary dance, enabling the realisation of new Australian dance works and showcasing the talents of Australia's independent dance artists.

www.dirtyfeet.com.au

Tipping Point
August 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd at 8pm
Cleveland St Theatre, 199 Cleveland St (ACTT Theatre)
Tickets $20 adult/ $15 concession/ $10 "DirtyFeeters"
Bookings: email rsvp@dirtyfeet.com.au (Tickets also available at the door)
DirtyFeet is proudly supported by the City of Sydney

In a world premiere, Spring Dance presents The Oracle - the latest work from renowned Australian choreographer Meryl Tankard.
Performed by Paul White, winner of the 2008 Helpmann Award for Best Male Dancer, The Oracle is inspired by the haunting work of Scandinavian painter Odd Nerdrum. Driven by the powerful score of Igor Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, this thrilling new production takes on the conflicting forces of Nature and Man.

One of the most controversial works in performance history, The Rite of Spring was choreographed by legendary dancer of the Ballet Russes, Vaslav Nijinksy. Its 1913 premiere literally caused riots in the aisles of the theatre.

In this Sydney Opera House and Malthouse Melbourne commission, Tankard explores the world of Nijinsky to create an oracle for our times.

‘We are rewarded by Ms Tankard's gift for digging deeper into basic instincts.' THE NEW YORK TIMES

Concept and Direction: Meryl Tankard
Choreography: Meryl Tankard and Paul White
Visual Designer: Régis Lansac
Lighting Designer: Damien Cooper
Performer: Paul White

This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australian Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and by the Keir Foundation. Original development assistance through Critical Path's Responsive Program.

Duration: 50 minutes with no interval

MORE INFO

Apparently the amazing flying monkey's that go over the audience in Wicked have been cut from the show when it moves to Sydney next month due to OH&S issues. Although it's neither here or there for us there are a lot of people that look forward to that moment in the show! Anyway it's great to see Wicked having a new website! Check it out here! www.wickedthemusical.com.au. Get your tickets Sydney. Wicked opens on 5th September.

What better way to get to know your new family for the next at least 12 months than to go out for dinner and a few drinks. The cast of Mamma Mia are working their butts off rehearsing for the show that will open on 23rd October in Sydney at the Lyric Theatre.

Over 40 million people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show!

Writer Catherine Johnson's sunny, funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter's quest to discover the identity of her father brings 3 men from her mother's past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago.

The story-telling magic of ABBA's timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship, and every night everyone's having the time of their lives!

www.mamma-mia.com.au for more details and ticket information.

At long last CATS, the most recognised and adored musical the world has ever known, capers and frolics into Sydney opening Tuesday 18 May 2010 for a strictly limited season, playing in the Lyric Theatre, Star City. CATS is quite simply a phenomenon. Featuring a magnificent musical score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber, including the poignant hit song "Memory", a fantastical set, inspired choreography and mischievous costumes, CATS is a brilliant song and dance spectacular not to be missed. Seen by over 65 million people world-wide, CATS first opened in London in May 1981 to rave reviews and went on to win a record-breaking number of awards internationally including two Olivier Awards for ‘Musical of the Year' and ‘Outstanding Achievement of the Year in Musicals', and seven Tony Awards. It holds the record for one of the longest-running musicals in West End history playing for 21 years. In addition CATS played 18 years on Broadway and has been presented in over twenty-six countries, in about three hundred cities, in ten languages. Boasting a cast and crew of 53 including a live band, CATS will return triumphantly to Sydney in an entrancing production that reconnects us with our favourite characters - Rum Tum Tugger, Mr. Mistoffelees, Jennyanydots, Old Deuteronomy, Grizabella and Skimbleshanks. Based on the book of poems "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" (1939) by T.S. Eliot, CATS tells the imaginative tale of a tribe of Jellicle Cats as they gather together for the annual Jellicle Ball, and one by one tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, who must choose one of the Cats to journey to the Heavyside Layer to be ‘reborn' into a new life. It has been 15 years since CATS wowed Sydney audiences at the Lyric Theatre and now the Australian touring cast, who have been selling out shows across Asia since 2006, are returning home. CATS is presented in Australia by Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and David Atkins Enterprises in association with Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Really Useful Group. Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and David Atkins Enterprises have been responsible for numerous outstanding productions over the years including Miss Saigon, Singin' In The Rain, The Phantom of the Opera (Singapore 2007 season, in association with The Really Useful Group), Stomp, Swan Lake On Ice, We Will Rock You and Abba Mania, to name but a few. Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Really Useful Group is one of the world's most recognised international entertainment companies, responsible for producing, co-producing, licensing and managing major theatrical production worldwide.

Cats Trivia: There are about 60 wigs in the Cats inventory with each one valued at up to $4,000.

SOURCE: Live Guide

Sydney has taken WICKED to its heart with huge numbers flocking to the greenified Capitol Theatre to experience this world-wide musical sensation. WICKED has broken all previous weekly box office records for a musical at the Capitol Theatre, grossing $1,473,775.70 in the past week. General Manager of the Capitol Theatre, Graeme Kearns, said "The Capitol Theatre has a long history of hosting hit musical productions, and we're thrilled that the current production of WICKED has out grossed previous record holders. There's no doubt that Sydneysiders are queueing to see this wonderful musical, and loving it. We've already had people come back for a second time, even though it has only been open for a month."

The Australian production's Co-Producer John Frost, said, "I'm thrilled that Sydney has fallen in love with this wonderful production. WICKED is unique, a phenomenon, quite unlike any other musical. Its success around the world proves it is one of those rare shows that touch people deeply, as well as entertain them; a show for all ages from 8 to 80."

Single tickets to WICKED are now onsale until 29 November. Bookings at 1300 723 038, www.wickedthemusical.com.au or www.ticketmaster.com.au

Back by popular demand, The Sydney City Youth Ballet's presentation of NUTCRACKER will return to Glen Street Theatre, Frenchs Forest, from Tuesday 8th December to Sunday 13th December 2009 with special guests LUCINDA DUNN and ROBERT CURRAN, Principal Artists of The Australian Ballet, who will perform at select performances.

With matinee and evening performances, this favourite, full-length Christmas Ballet returns to entertain audiences of all ages. With two acts of 45 minutes each, NUTCRACKER tells the tale of the beautiful Clara who is given a Nutcracker doll by her Uncle for Christmas. When she falls asleep on Christmas Eve she dreams her Nutcracker fights the Evil Rat King and his army of mice, before transforming into a handsome prince. As he comes to life he whisks her away on a magical journey to the land of the beautiful sweets. On their way, Clara encounters dancing chefs, cheeky clowns, Russian acrobats and the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy, before waking up on Christmas morning wondering if it was all a dream.

Current Principal Artist of The Australian Ballet Lucinda Dunn says: "Whether this is an introduction to the ballet or part of your annual Christmas Celebrations, The Nutcracker is a truly wonderful, traditional and colourful ballet - the perfect fairytale! I have been lucky enough to dance in many productions of the Nutcracker for nearly 20 years, and Sydney is lucky to have the Sydney City Youth Ballet's production."
With Special Guest Performances by members of The Australian Ballet, come and be enchanted by this magical Christmas Tale.

GENERAL ADMISSION bookings are available now Call Glen Street Box Office on 9975 1455.
For GROUP BOOKINGS please contact Nicole Grech, Administrator, Sydney City Youth Ballet on 9439 4424.

Artistic Director Rafael Bonachela has invited one of Europe's most revered choreographers, Kenneth Kvarnstrom, to make his Australian debut, applying the sensibilities of this beyond-cutting-edge-choreographer to the creation of a full length work for the Sydney Dance Company.

Finnish born Kenneth Kvarnstrom's work is imbued with a bold and distinctive visual stamp as a result of his frequent collaborations with light and set designers of his choice; artists whose technical skills and personalities have combined to inspire the overall energy of his creations.

For several years the director of the Helsinki City Theatre Dance Company and of the esteemed Dansens Hus in Stockholm, where he presented the finest of international dance artists, Kvarnstrom has now returned to a career of creative diversity, reapplying his creative energies to his own K. Kvarnstrom & Co and making commissioned works for Gothenburg Ballet, Helsinki Dance Company and Finnish National Ballet.

Defined by choreography which is at once powerful and dynamic, yet sensual and intimate, Kenneth Kvarnstrom's work is both challenging and demanding.

"If the work of K. Kvarnstrom comes to your town, see it. It's worth it for the beautiful movement and the choreographer's unique voice." Critical Dance.com

"With its precise integration of space and all the intensity of excellent dance, Kvarnstrom's choreography carries you away again and again". Ballet International Magazine, Berlin

"A sway of arms opposite the hips, the isolation of a shoulder, limbs articulating and unfolding, give a distinctly athletic hip-hop feeling....a magically marked out space, brings a visual polish to an intriguing work" Dance Magazine, US

Kenneth Kvarnstrom's Mercury

Sydney Theatre
November 17-28
Previews November 13 & 14
Tickets $20 - $70

BOOK NOW
http://www.sydneytheatre.org.au/event.asp?pID=176 OR call SYDNEY THEATRE on 9250 1999

ELITE DANCE COMPETITION HITS SYDNEY

Australia's online community and business directory for dancers and performers, DanceLife has just launched DanceLife Unite. DanceLife Unite is a unique and exciting opportunity for dance studios and dance groups from all over Australia to compete in an elite dance competition. The result is a professional event staged in a State of the Art Venue over two weekends in May 2010. The event is about encouraging participants to have fun, keep fit and healthy and create a performance culture while battling it out against the best dance studios, groups and routines from the country.

DanceLife Unite has been created to fill a missing hole in the entertainment industry. It's a competition at the same time as providing talented dance students with the opportunity to perform in a professional area as well as receiving recognition and constructive feedback from industry professionals. With television shows and films such as So You Think You Can Dance, Dancing With The Stars, FAME, Step Up and Centre Stage the popularity of dance has grown immensely over the past five years. In 2010 DanceLife Unite will celebrate all styles of dance including hip hop, jazz, classical ballet, contemporary, modern, tap, and musical theatre. One event, two weekends with many opportunities for dancers throughout Australia.

Founder and Managing Director of DanceLife is young entrepreneur Clint Salter. "The team at DanceLife has created DanceLife Unite to bring the dance community together in an environment where dancers from all over the nation can do what they love to do, Dance. DanceLife Unite will be an event that you won't want to miss! High quality dancers, experienced judges from the industry, large venue plus a huge amount of passion to fill the room" says Clint.

DanceLife has been growing rapidly since launching in July 2008. DanceLife is the only specialist online directory & social network targeted to all Australian dancers and performers. In just over a year the website has quickly established itself as a destination for dancers of all levels. The website is a resource to the community offering their members the latest news in the dance and entertainment industry, access to upcoming auditions, plus a way to find local businesses to meet their needs as a dancer or performer through the directory.

Event Details
When:
15th & 16th May 2010
22nd & 23rd May 2010

Venue:
Science Theatre, University of NSW, Anzac Parade, Kensington, NSW.

www.dancelifeunite.com.au

DanceLife Unite is a unique and exciting opportunity for dance studios and dance groups from all over Australia to compete in an elite dance competition. The result is a professional event staged in a State of the Art Venue over two weekends in May 2010. DanceLife Unite is about encouraging participants to have fun, keep fit and healthy and create a performance culture while battling it out against the best dance studios, groups and routines from the nation.

We are seeking a number of experienced, passionate and enthusiastic Judges to adjudicate the DanceLife Unite competition in May 2010. There will be 2 Judges adjudicating each session (3 sessions per day with each session going for 3-4 hours).

DATES:
Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 May 2010
Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 May 2010 (Depending on entries)

VENUE:
Science Theatre, University of NSW, Anzac Parade, Kensington, NSW

APPLY
If you're interested in becoming a Judge for DanceLife Unite please forward your CV (performance, teaching and adjudicating) along with a list of any dance studios you currently teach for or have taught for in the last two years to judges@dancelifeunite.com.au. Also let us know if you're NOT available for any of the above four dates.

From here we will contact successful applicants to give you further details including fees, session times etc.

We look forward to working with you on this competition!

The DanceLife Unite Team

Unsuspecting sunbathers on Sydney's Bondi Beach were surprised the other week when 200 beachgoers picked up their towels and suddenly started dancing.

The dancers were part of a flash mob - a large group of people who meet in a public place and perform a routine for a very short period of time before pretending like nothing happened.

The surprise flash mob performance, dubbed "Towel Surfing", is believed to be the first of its kind in Australia.

It began with a man in red bathers putting a stereo on the ground, turning up the volume and dancing. Others began joining in at staggered intervals before all 250 "flash mobbers" were kicking up the sand.

The dance concluded with a "wipe out" before everyone fell back onto their towels.

It was performed as part of a promotion for the launch of a new video camera.

Other famous flash mob routines include the 2006 "silent disco", where thousands of people across various London Underground train stations danced to their own portable music players.

Some 4000 people were reported to have gathered at London Victoria station.

Source: Nine News

Thanks to the people at Sydney Dance Company DanceLife is thrilled to be able to giveaway 5 double passes to their work, Mercury, choreographed by guest choreographer Kenneth Kvarnstrom.

To win one of the 5 double passes to the show simply email win@dancelife.com.au with your name, suburb and show date. Tickets are available for either Wednesday 25th - 1PM or Saturday 28th - 4PM.
Mercury - Sydney Dance Company
Date: November 17th- 28th
Venue: Sydney Theatre
Tickets: $20-$70
Contact: To make a booking by phone, contact Sydney Theatre on (02) 9250 1999
Internet Bookings www.sydneytheatre.org.au
www.sydneydancecompany.com

The dance industry is often seen as bitchy, competitive and ruthless which it can be but it's photos like the one above that reminds everyone that at the end of the day the Australian dance community is just that, a community, a family. Some of Sydney's finest names in dance caught up for the festive season this week. It's rare that you can get everyone in the same place at the same time as there is usually a huge amount of people working on bits and pieces here and overseas. Merry Christmas to you all! :)

DanceLife is lucky enough to be able to give away one DOUBLE PASS to see Sydney Theatre Company's production of Spring Awakening on Monday 8th February. To be in the running for these tickets simply email win@dancelife.com.au with your name, age and address before Thursday 4th February. Winners will be contacted on Friday 5th February. You will need to be available to see the show at Sydney Theatre Company on Hickson Road, Sydney at 7.30pm.

Spring Awakening, the hit musical merging Frank Wedekind's controversial, classic play with an indie-rock score by Steven Sater and Duncan Sheik, has its Australian premiere as part of Sydney Theatre Company's 2010 Main Stage season. On Broadway, Spring Awakening won eight Tony Awards in 2007 including Best Musical and has subsequently become a cross-generational music theatre phenomenon throughout the world. Directed by Geordie Brookman (Metro Street, Baghdad Wedding) with choreography by Kate Champion (The Age I'm In, Same Same But Different, Dirty Dancing) Sydney Theatre Company's production offers a fresh, new aesthetic to the acclaimed musical as the first ever ‘non-replica production'. With an exceptional cast comprised primarily of young performers, many of whom have been found through open auditions, performances are at Sydney Theatre from 4 February, opening on 9 February 2010.

On a stormy, spring afternoon two young people succumb to a desire unlike anything they've ever felt before. Fumbling their way into one another's arms, they learn the joys of sexual awakening. Only later will they also learn of its potential to devastate.

This exuberant and bold new musical tells the tale of a dozen teenagers embarking on the terrifying, thrilling and complicated transition from youth to adulthood. The inquisitive, sweet Wendla (Clare Bowen) begs her mother to explain where babies come from; her best friend Thea (Ali Calder) denies her feelings of desire in order to keep the repressive adults happy; the charismatic, rebellious Melchior (Andrew Hazzard) tries to help his tormented friend, Moritz (Akos Armont) while the troubled and abused Martha (Erica Lovell) fears being outcast like runaway Ilse (Angela Scundi); and as Georg (Edward Grey) lusts after his busty music teacher, Hanschen (Jamie Ward) takes a more pragmatic approach to his desires, seducing the naïve Ernst (Scott Morris) along the way.

Helen Dallimore (currently on stage in Sydney Theatre Company's Wharf Revue) who made her West End debut as Glinda in the original London cast of Wicked, portrays the range of adult characters, along with Berynn Schwerdt.

Completing the creative team with Brookman and Champion, are acclaimed Musical Director Robert Gavin, Set Designer Anna Tregloan, Costume Designer Tess Schofield and Lighting Designer Niklas Pajanti.

Cast: Akos Armont, Clare Bowen, Ali Calder, Olivia Charalambous, Thomas Conroy, Helen Dallimore, Edward Grey, Andrew Hazzard, Nicholas Kong, Erica Lovell, Scott Morris, Angela Scundi, Rebecca Lee Slade, Berynn Schwerdt, Christy Sullivan, Jamie Ward, Alex Woodward

Tickets: $40 to $90 Box Office: 02 9250 1777 www.sydneytheatre.com.au  

After a stellar run in Melbourne, the hit musical Jersey Boys is packing up and heading to Sydney.

Jersey Boys, the story of `60s pop group The Four Seasons, will close in Melbourne on July 25 after 453 performances to almost half a million people in just over one year.

It will open in the Harbour city on September 18 at the Theatre Royal.

The musical reveals how four boys from the wrong side of the tracks became one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time.

Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi wrote hit songs like Sherry, Big Girls Don't Cry, Rag Doll, Oh What a Night and Can't Take My Eyes Off You, and sold 175 million records worldwide, even before they had turned 30.

The four male leads in the Australian production of Jersey Boys say they feel like they've had a bit of the rockstar experience playing the The Four Seasons.

Every night after their Melbourne performances they are mobbed by fans at the stage door and regularly get recognised on the street.

"I think it's exceeded everybody's expectations," said Scott Johnson, who plays DeVito.

"People who come and see the show, they've seen it once, then they see it twice. We actually know people who have seen the show 20-odd times," added Stephen Mahy, who plays Gaudio.

"We had this one gentleman who has seen it 21 times.

"He's gone away now for a month but he's going to come back and get tickets. He just loves it."

After singing the Four Seasons songs countless time over the Melbourne run of the show, the actors say the show's appeal lies in the timelessness of the songs and the compelling story behind the music.

"There's just so much heart to the writing," said Bobby Fox, who plays Valli.

"Jersey Boys offers the story behind the music that people have been listening to for years ... and people just relate to where they were at that time."

Worldwide the show has been seen by nine million people and has won four Tony Awards. The Melbourne production has received 10 nominations for the Victorian Green Room Awards.

Fox said he's looking forward to seeing another city singing to the tune of the Four Seasons.

"The show has an effect on the city that it's in, no matter where it is," he said.

"I'm really excited to see Sydney become Jersey Boy-ified."

SOURCE: NINE MSN

Sydney Dance Company's 2010 season New Creations kicked off this month with the world premiere of two new works. SDC artistic director Rafael Bonachela directed 6 Breaths, with costumes by Josh Goot. Sydney-born but now Berlin-based dance maker Adam Linder performed and choreographed Are We That We Are. It was the 26-year-olds first Australian performance since he left the country at 16 on a Royal Ballet School scholarship.

Bookings: www.sydneydancecompany.com/work/current/season-1-new-creations-rafaellinder/

Performance footage by Stella Motion Pictures

Check out the interview above from the Jewish News. For more JNTV videos, visit: www.jewishnews.net.au/video

The 2010 season of the short dance festival Short Sweet+Dance has concluded with awards, rave reviews and cheering crowds at the Parade Theatre, NIDA.

"The overall standard was truly surpassing, even by the consistently high measure customarily applicable to this worthy event on Sydney's autumnal arts calendar." - Lloyd Bradford Syke, Australian Stage online

Offically opened and applauded by the NSW Arts Minister the Honourable Virginia Judge MP, SS+Dance played to full houses over three weeks at two venues - Riverside Theatres and the Parade Theatres NIDA.

Co-producers Western Sydney Dance Action and Short+Sweet congratulated all artists and crew for making the season a success!

Said Festival Director Olivia Ansell:

"In just three years the festival has offered 110 choreographers and 450 dancers the opportunity to trial and share new work - just in Sydney alone. The dance model also exists in Melbourne, Canberra, Malaysia with plans for Singapore and India in the near future!"

See below for 2010 SS+dance award recipients...

Most Outstanding Choreography Week 1-Sean Marcs with P.S
Most Outstanding Choreography Week 2-Gemma Dawkins with A Little Light Dinner Donversation
Most Outstanding Choreography Week 3-Tim Farrar with Few Things of the Same Kind
Most Outstanding Male Dancer - Benjamin Hancock for Martin Del Amo's Nowhere to hide Part 3
Most Outstanding Female Dancer - Anna Healy in Sean Marcs' - P.S Kay Armstrong's Ballyhoo, Emma Fishwick's An Empty Room, Jayne McCann's Inferno and Kevin Privett's By Looking
Best New Talent: Venetia Millar for performance in Surface Tension (co-choreographed Marttaleena Luukkonen, Eleanor Kelly and Venettia Millar)
People's Choice: Three Hits and a Miss choreographed by Chris Horsey and performed by Tracey Wilson, Trent kidd, Chris Horsey and Wilson Thomas
People's Choice Wildcard: Mashum Liberta for Pass Out

Entries for Short Sweet+Dance 2011 will be called shortly!

Based on the extraordinary novel written by Argentine author, Manuel Puig is the enthralling, Kiss of the Spider Woman. Darlinghurst Theatre and Gaiety Theatre are presenting this Multi-award winning, groundbreaking musical at Darlinghurst Theatre from July 8 to August 8.

In a remarkable rendering of the musical genre, Kiss of the Spider Woman is a fierce tale of humanity pushed to its limits. Two men share a prison cell in Latin America. Molina is a gay window dresser convicted of seducing a minor. His straight cellmate, Valentin, is a no-nonsense Marxist locked up for his left-wing revolutionary activities. In this atmosphere of political paranoia and distrust, loyalty is tested and prejudices are confronted. To escape the daily brutality Molina recounts the movies of the ravishing screen beauty, Aurora. He loves all her films except one in which Aurora plays the Spider Woman who kills with her kiss.

"The honesty and daring of Kiss of the Spider Woman the musical promises to redefine the way you think about musical theatre," said Director, Stephen Colyer. "The intensity and humanity of the musical will be revealed a new to maximize the powerful intimacy of the Darlinghurst Theatre space".

Kiss of the Spider Woman is based on Manuel Puig's 1976 novel, El Beso de la Mujer Araña and became an instant classic, translated around the world. With music and lyrics by John Kander and Fred Ebb, creators of Chicago and Cabaret and the book written by Terence McNally, Kiss of the Spider Woman the Musical took New York by storm in 1993 and won three Tony Awards - Best New Musical, Best Score and Best Book. The powerful story of Kiss of the Spider Woman has also been the successful basis for a play and a film, starring William Hurt and Raul Julia.

"The search for the Spider Woman begins this month," explains Stephen Colyer. "Although every role in this show is a once in a lifetime opportunity that could make a star of a performer with the right talents."

Director, Stephen Colyer started his career as a dancer and choreographer. He has directed Boston Marriage, Dying City, Fit to be Tied, Hello Again, Little Shop of Horrors and What A Shock ‘N' Shame and was Assistant Director on Company B's Twelfth Night . His Theatre credits are ample and include Beauty and the Beast, My Fair Lady, Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, The Wizard of Oz and Opera Australia's Tales of Hoffman, Nabucco and The Eight Wonder. Colyer's feature films include Baz Lurhmann's Moulin Rouge and Warner Studio's Scooby Doo.

Musical Director, Craig Renshaw has extensive experience in musical theatre, concerts and television. He has worked on large musical theatre productions such as Cats, Wicked, Mary Poppins and The Phantom of the Opera.

KISS OF THE SPIDER WOMAN
Tickets on Sale Now
July 8 - August 8
DARLINGHURS THEATRE, 19 Greenknowe Street, Potts Point
DATES: July 8 - August 8
Previews July 8 - 11 Opening Night July 13 Season July 13 - August 8

TIMES: Tues - Sat at 8pm; Sun at 5pm; Matinees: Sat 31 July & 7 August at 3pm
TICKET PRICES: Previews $27, Adult $37, Conc $32, Senior $30
BOOKINGS: Darlinghurst Theatre Box Office on 02 8356 9987 OR www.darlinghursttheatre.com

Auditions 2010
Professional Company
3rd & 4th July 2010
by invitation only

Applicants must have a vocational qualification, professional experience in contemporary/classical dance and be 18 years or over.

Applicants must hold either Australian or New Zealand citizenship or a valid visa to work as a dancer in Australia.

Applicants must be experienced in developing movement with a professional choreographer. They must also display high levels of stamina and flexibility, strong improvisational skills and an understanding of Sydney Dance Company's creative goals.

All applications and enquiries should be sent to audition@sydneydancecompany.com

Application closing date: June 19th 2010.

All applications MUST include a current CV, a headshot and only ONE full body dance shot.

All documents attached to applications (ie CVs and photos) MUST be saved as your full name. Only applications sent to the correct address and with the correct labelling will be considered.

Successful applicants will be invited to audition on the 3rd and 4th July 2010 10am - 6pm.

Amy Hollingsworth
Dance Director
Sydney Dance Company

Wordstorm are looking for dancers to participate in a Flash Mob in the Sydney CBD to launch a new product.

Who:
One of our clients - PowerBar, one of the world's leading sports nutrition companies (www.powerbar.com.au)
What: A flash mob dance performance (a group of people who burst into a spontaneous dance performance)

Where:
Meet us at the WordStorm PR office - Level 4, 63 Foveaux Street, Surry Hills, NSW 2010
(The actual performance will take place Martin Place, Sydney City)

When:
Rehearsal - Saturday 3rd July 10am - 1pm (At WordStorm office)
Event - Friday 9th July between approx 10am - 1:30pm

Why:
To launch PowerBar's newest product - PowerBar Gel Blasts

Attire: For the event "work clothes"

Contact:
WordStorm PR
Catherine Guyder
P: 02 8272 3208
E: catherine@wordstorm.com.au

If you are unable to attend the first rehearsal we will be putting up the choreography online and will send you the link, however we would greatly appreciate it if you could attend.

Be a part of PROJECT DANCE SYDNEY Australia's, 4th event in Circular Quay!

OCTOBER 8-10th 2010

Perform on an outdoor stage in Circular Quay, enjoy Master classes in many dance styles, get the support and direction you need as a dancer and so much more at this year's event;

Click the link below for the event brochure and registration form;
http://www.projectdance.com/events/PD2010_brochure_final_v2.pdf

Our Mission
Project Dance® is a movement of dancers seeking to positively impact culture through artistic integrity. Our desire is to see every dancer nurtured to their fullest human potential for their own wellbeing and their contribution to the world. We offer training, education, and performance opportunities for dancers worldwide who desire to dance with integrity to inspire.

See above for the promo DVD

More info;
www.projectdance.com
info@projectdance.com