By Staff
The Andalusia Ballet Association is pleased to once again present Handel's Messiah on Saturday evening, March 12 and Sunday afternoon, March 13 at the Dixon Center for the Performing Arts on the LBW campus in Andalusia. Local dancers, Mary Catherine Turner, Madison Floyd and Mary Ashton McMillan, who are part of the Senior Company and the Junior Company respectively will perform accompanied by the orchestra and the chorus.
Several years ago during the Christmas season the Ballet Association presented the Messiah. The meaningful passages of scripture brought to life by the music and movement captivated the hearts and minds of those present.
This time five new pieces have been added to the repertoire for the performances that come shortly before the celebration of Easter. The choreographer, Amelie Hunter, came from California during the first week of January to teach the new selections; one of those is eight minutes long.
The rule of thumb for choreography is one hour of instruction to teach one minute of new movement. So that one piece alone translated into eight hours of rehearsal time for the dancers. The chorus has been also been diligent in their preparations for these special performances, rehearsing faithfully since October. So it seems amazing when we realize that Handel composed Messiah in less than a month back in 1741. Twenty-four days to create something that has brought joy, passion, comfort and peace for more than 250 years.
Meryane Martin Murphy, Artistic Director of Andalusia Ballet, in conjunction with Paula Sue Dubelt, music director of the choral department of Andalusia High School invite you to share the experience. Tickets are general admission and should be obtained in advance downtown at Book and Bean or by calling the ballet office at 334-222-6620.