Asheville – The Asheville Ballet announced its upcoming production of “Carmen, the Ballet,” scheduled for May 16 and 17 at 7:30 PM at the Diana Wortham Theatre. Directed by Ann Dunn, this professional performance promises to captivate audiences with a blend of classical and contemporary choreography.
Community Engagement and Artistic Vision
Ann Dunn, the Artistic Director of Asheville Ballet, expressed her enthusiasm for the production, stating, “Carmen, the Ballet is a gift to our community.” The performance features a talented cast, including Megan Jones Medford as Carmen, Marcelo Martinez as Don José, Clara Zander as Micaëla, and Kendall Teague as Escamillo. Tickets for the event range from $15 to $40 and can be purchased through the Box Office or online.
The narrative of “Carmen” unfolds in 19th century Seville, where the passionate Carmen navigates love and betrayal. The story begins with Carmen working in a cigarette factory and her tumultuous relationship with Don José, who is torn between his duty and his love for her. As the plot thickens, Carmen’s fate intertwines with that of the flashy matador Escamillo, leading to a dramatic conclusion.
Spotlight on the Cast
Megan Jones Medford, who plays the titular role of Carmen, shared her excitement about returning to her hometown to perform. “I am thrilled to be able to share my love of dance by teaching students throughout the area,” she remarked. Medford’s extensive background includes performances in New York City and collaborations with various dance companies.
Marcelo Martinez, portraying Don José, reflected on his journey from Paraguay to becoming a lead dancer in prestigious ballet companies. He noted, “Dancing with The Washington Ballet and Carolina Ballet has shaped my career significantly.” His experience adds depth to the character of Don José, who struggles with his emotions throughout the ballet.
Clara Zander, who takes on the role of Micaëla, emphasized the importance of community in the arts. “Asheville is so fortunate to have a resident ballet company of this caliber,” she stated. Zander’s training at Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre’s Junior Division has prepared her well for this role.
Kendall Teague, playing Escamillo, shared insights into his diverse dance background. “I began my career in the Bay Area and have since worked with various companies,” he explained. Teague’s experience brings a unique perspective to the character of Escamillo, adding layers to the performance.
The Asheville Ballet has a rich history as North Carolina’s oldest ballet company, having been incorporated in 1963. It has built a reputation for its commitment to community engagement and educational outreach. Each year, the company performs “The Nutcracker” for school children, reaching approximately 23,000 people annually through its programming.
As Dunn noted, “The community has essentially a year-long resident repertoire company.” This dedication to fostering an appreciation for dance is evident in the company’s collaborations with local artists and organizations.
In addition to its performances, Asheville Ballet offers educational resources and scholarships for aspiring dancers. The company actively supports underprivileged children through initiatives like the Tix for Tots program, which provides tickets to introduce young people to dance.
The upcoming production of “Carmen” not only showcases the talents of its dancers but also highlights Asheville Ballet’s ongoing commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Western North Carolina. With its blend of passion, drama, and artistry, “Carmen” promises to be a memorable experience for all attendees.