The Joffrey/Arpino Legacy Workshop
Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino co-founded the Joffrey Ballet. Joffrey was known for his integrity, perfectionism and knowledge of dance technique, while Gerald Arpino was a dancer turned choreographer who created a diverse mix of ballets imbued with passion, energy and artistry.
Joffrey was said to be the visionary of The Joffrey and Arpino was the heart and soul. Together they would create a company that changed the dance world.
Cameron Basden was a dancer in The Joffrey working with Mr. Joffrey as choreographer, instructor and director. She was a muse for Arpino in the creation of many of his ballets before becoming ballet master then associate director of The Joffrey.
Ballet Technique
Cameron Basden’s ballet technique class carries the simplicity, purity of movement and clarity of her years working with Mr. Joffrey. Joffrey was a master of all styles of dance and this class reflects that quality. Using movement coordination laced with imagery to inspire and challenge students, technical and artistic choices are discussed, executed and perhaps redefined. Arpino’s specific quality using the torso and immaculate footwork will enhance the class making it relevant, beneficial…..and fun for dancers of all styles and abilities.
Arpino Variations: Birthday Variations
This encompassing class will focus on two of the five variations from Birthday Variations, a ballet Basden danced for many years and worked as a muse with Gerald Arpino to create. Birthday Variations, with music by Giuseppe Verdi, was premiered in 1986 as a classical jewel for five women and one man. Each short variation carries the off-balance sweeping movement with intricate footwork that is known as a signature of Arpino. While this is a classical ballet, Arpino wanted the dancers to “eat the space” and move as if they were not in pointe shoes. His favorite term was “ZAH” and any dancer who ever worked with Arpino knows exactly what that means: energy, quality, artistry and dynamics. Each of these variations is a gem in itself, an exciting challenge for the dancers to work on and a pleasure to watch.
