Jan McNulty

I got an email about it from LCB. There wasn't a press release or I would have published it.

I think they are usually available for a while afterwards.

For immediate release PRESS RELEASE Date: 18/01/24 Olga Smirnova on why dance matters and leaving Bolshoi Ballet Royal Academy of Dance’s Why Dance Matters podcast celebrates its 50th episode with this moving conversation Image credit: Alex Gouliaev Today the Royal Academy of Dance’s Why Dance Matters podcast celebrates its 50th episode in conversation with one of the world’s great ballerinas, Olga Smirnova. The 50th episode, released today, comes in advance of Olga Smirnova performing in the title role of Giselle. Dutch National Ballet and Pathé Live are bringing Rachel Beaujean and Ricardo Bustamante’s staging of Giselle to cinemas worldwide on 21st January. Smirnova joined Dutch National Ballet in 2022 after making headlines with a courageous, life-changing decision to leave Moscow’s Bolshoi Ballet in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In a wide-ranging and thoughtful conversation on the Why Dance Matters 50th episode, she discusses her momentous decision to leave Russia and her profound sense of why dance matters. As a young girl, Smirnova had no dream of becoming a ballerina. However, she did go to dance classes, and was then accepted into the famous Vaganova Ballet Academy in St Petersburg. On completing her training in 2011, she joined the Bolshoi Ballet, starting immediately as a soloist and shining not only in the classics, but also in new and modern works. In 2016, she was promoted to prima ballerina, but when Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, Smirnova – strongly opposed to the invasion – decided to leave her homeland, making the transition to Dutch National Ballet. Highlights from the 50th episode include the following reflections by Smirnova: On leaving Russia, “The decision was obvious for me, so this made it easier. But of course it meant huge changes. I never lived in a foreign country before. A new language, new country, new traditions, new company – all of that was a big challenge. But I was lucky to find great support at Dutch National Ballet and from the director Ted Branson. I can confidently say that Dutch National has now become my home. Contact with former Bolshoi colleagues, “No, not many, just with a few people. I think they feel weird not to be able to tour or share their experience with the world, or have many choreographers coming to work with them. But people don’t want to talk about it, or might be afraid to share their honest opinion.” Why does dance matter? “I like to think about my body as a tool, which helps to reveal and express different emotions and share these emotions with the audience. And I believe that the more people share their emotions with one another, the better they come to understand one another, which helps create a better and more harmonious world. Art helps us find the inspiration to exist – I just want to share this inspiration with the world.” The 50th episode of Why Dance Matters podcast is available on all major streaming platforms. Visit our podcast page to find out more: United Kingdom | Podcast (royalacademyofdance.org) Giselle is in cinemas around the world on 21 January https://www.giselleballetcinema.com/ Notes to Editors About the Royal Academy of Dance Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the most influential dance education and training organisations in the world with a strong global membership in 85 countries. Established in 1920 to improve standards and re-invigorate dance training, the Academy helps and encourages its teachers to perfect their teaching skills and pass on this knowledge to their students. There are currently over 1,000 students in full-time or part-time teacher training programmes with the Academy and each year the examination syllabus is taught to thousands of young people worldwide, with around a quarter of a million pupils per year going on to take RAD exams. About Why Dance Matters podcast Why Dance Matters is a series of conversations with extraordinary people from the world of dance and beyond. It traces the impact of dance on their lives and asks why dance matters to them – and why it might matter to us all. The RAD inspires the world to dance, and we hope these insightful personal conversations – hosted by David Jays, editor of Dance Gazette, the RAD magazine – will delight and even surprise. About David Jays, host David Jays writes for the Guardian and Sunday Times, and is editor of Dance Gazette, the Royal Academy of Dance magazine. @mrdavidjays About Sarah Myles, producer Sarah Myles is an award winning podcast producer with nearly 10 years of experience in audio. Previous podcasts include Fearne Cotton's Happy Place, UK Youth's Are You Convinced?, How to Own the Room with Viv Groskop and The Week's podcast The Week Unwrapped.

Cheltenham was announced (without fanfare) a couple of weeks ago.

Press release Thursday 18 January 2024 Dance for Ukraine The London Palladium Sunday 18 February 2024 at 6.30pm lwtheatres.co.uk/whats-on/dance-for-ukraine Ivan Putrov’s second gala in support of his home country Ukraine, ahead of the anniversary of the war Featuring former Bolshoi Ballet superstar Olga Smirnova, making her first UK performances since leaving Russia in protest at the onset of the war Stars of The Royal Ballet Marianela Núñez, Martthew Ball and William Bracewell, and soloists from Ukrainian National Ballet to also perform Funds raised will support the arts in Ukraine, with a new production for Ukrainian National Ballet of Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée, the first British ballet to enter its repertoire Tickets on sale now “…the most passionate display of dance that I have witnessed and the most meaningful." The Daily Telegraph on Dance for Ukraine Ukrainian born dancer and former star of The Royal Ballet Ivan Putrov today announces Dance for Ukraine at The London Palladium on Sunday 18 February 2024, following the success of 2022’s gala that raised over £160,000 net for the Disaster Emergency Committee’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal. Bringing together a cast of international ballet stars, this year’s Dance for Ukraine comes ahead of the second anniversary of Russia’s illegal invasion and ongoing war. This special benefit gala will raise much needed funds to support young artists and culture in Ukraine, where ballet is centrally important. The evening will see former Principal of Bolshoi Ballet and current Principal of Dutch National Ballet, Olga Smirnova, make her first performance on a UK stage since leaving Russia in protest of the invasion at the onset of the war. Continuing her ongoing support of Ukraine following performances in galas in Hamburg and Copenhagen. Dance for Ukraine will also feature stars from The Royal Ballet and other leading UK companies including Principals of The Royal Ballet Marianela Núñez, William Bracewell and Matthew Ball. Lead Principals Emma Hawes and Sangeun Lee will also perform. Alongside Ivan Putrov and soloists of the Ukrainian National Ballet, dancers from Ukraine include Junior Soloist Vsevolod Maievskyi and Artist of The Royal Ballet Marianna Tsembenhoi. Renowned Ukrainian pianist, Sasha Grynyuk, will also perform alongside mezzo-soprano Kseniia Nikolaieva. Further casting and repertoire to be announced shortly. Proceeds from the gala will be used to provide aspiring dancers with grants towards their training to make sure the reality of war affects them as little as possible. Additionally, the funds will go to make a new ballet production for Ukrainian National Ballet of Sir Frederick Ashton’s La Fille mal gardée. Having this quintessential British ballet join the repertoire of the National Opera House of Ukraine will help lift the spirits of audiences and the artists involved, the same spirit that has emboldened the people of Ukraine during the war. The rights to the ballet have been generously waived by Jean-Pierre Gasquet and the funds raised will pay for the production to be built and staged for the beginning of 2024/25 season. Of Dance for Ukraine, Ivan Putrov said: “It is a privilege for us in the UK to bring a little light, hopefully, to the people of Ukraine. I am thankful to all the artists, creatives and organisations that have donated their services to this cause, and I am proud Olga has chosen to come to our gala in support of Ukraine and make her first appearance in London since leaving Russia. It has always been a dream of mine to bring La Fille mal gardée to Ukraine and I am thrilled it will become the first British ballet to enter the repertoire of Ukrainian National Ballet for audiences to enjoy for years to come.” Nobuhiro Terada, Artistic Director of Ballet at the of the National Opera House of Ukraine said: “Despite this terrible war, we are continuing to perform and are striving to keep the spirits of our dancers and our audiences high. I can’t imagine a more inspiring way to do this than to add this most delightful and heart-warming gem of British ballet to our repertoire. We are hugely grateful to all of those working to make this possible. We send our thanks and gratitude to Jean Pierre Gasquet, for his generosity, to all of the artists taking part and, of course, to the audience for their support.” Internationally renowned dancer Ivan Putrov was born in Kyiv, Ukraine and trained at The Kyiv State Choreographic Institute before moving to The Royal Ballet School. Following his training he joined The Royal Ballet and was promoted to Principal after just three seasons. Throughout his career he has danced lead roles in all the classics on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, winning numerous awards for his performances. The first Dance for Ukraine, held at the London Coliseum in 2022, was directed by Ivan Putrov and the international ballet star Alina Cojocaru, who trained in Kyiv. The gala featured a huge range of world-renowned dancers and sold out within 48 hours, raising much needed funds to support those in desperate need following the onset of the war. Dance for Ukraine is produced by the charity Inspiration in Motion (Charity number 1167669), that promotes dance and the performing arts, with a particular focus on commissioning and supporting new dance works, as well as looking for opportunities to broaden audiences for dance and support education and training.

But they don't announce that Ms Cojocaru will be there with them. The email only mentions her in connection with Wells. I think the Cheltenham tickets are already on sale. I got an email about the dates a couple of weeks ago.

I doubt it if they are doing lots more dates. I'm hoping against hope that they are doing "up north" dates.

PRESS RELEASE – Thursday 18 January 2024 Youtube: londoncityballet / Instagram: thelondoncityballet / www.londoncityballet.com LONDON CITY BALLET ANNOUNCES RETURN TO SADLER’S WELLS IN AUTUMN THIS YEAR FOLLOWING A NEARLY 30 YEAR HIATUS, LONDON CITY BALLET WILL RETURN TO ITS FORMER HOME AT SADLER’S WELLS FROM 11-14 SEPTEMBER INTERNATIONALLY CELEBRATED BALLERINA ALINA COJOCARU WILL JOIN THE COMPANY AS A GUEST ARTIST Dancers Alina Cojocaru and Alvaro Madrigal, photo credit: photographybyAsh The London City Ballet has today announced a return to Sadler’s Wells from 11-14 September. London City Ballet - 2024 trailer.mp4 After a hiatus of almost 30 years, the international company of dancers will present a programme of acclaimed works including the revival of Kenneth MacMillan’s 1972 one-act ballet Ballade, unseen in Europe for over 50 years, featuring internationally celebrated ballerina Alina Cojocaru as a guest artist for the Sadler’s Wells season. Dancers Ayca Anil and Mischa Goodman: Larina Waltz by Ashley Page Ashley Page’s Larina Waltz marks the ballet’s 30th anniversary, and Olivier award-winner Arielle Smith premiere’s a new work. Eve, a full company work by Christopher Marney, which premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 2022 will close the evening. At selected venues on the company's international tour the pas de deux from Kenneth MacMillan's Concerto will also be performed. Dancer Harry Alexander: Creation by Arielle Smith The comeback performances in 2024 pay homage to the Company’s roots in the form of rarely-seen archival footage. Artistic Director Christopher Marney has spent two years rebuilding London City Ballet with historical insights from its early pioneers. Full details of London City Ballet’s tour this year, including international dates, will be announced soon. Dancers Kanika Skye-Carr and Alvaro Madrigal: Eve by Christopher Marney Credit: photographybyAsh Important dates: SADLERS WELLS 2024 PERFORMANCES: Wed 11th Sept: 7:30pm Thurs 12th Sept: 7:30pm Fri 13th Sept: 7:30pm Saturday 14th: 2:30 & 7:30pm. Tickets: £15 - £65 For queries contact info@londoncityballet.com On sale dates Patrons 19/01/24 Rehearsal Members 22/01/24 Members 24/01/24 Public 26/01/24 London City Ballet London City Ballet is a touring company of international dancers presenting engaging stories through dance to audiences across the world. Alongside creating newly commissioned work by upcoming, plus established, Choreographers and emphasis will also be on resurrecting older works that may no longer be in the mainstream repertoire. London City Ballet strive to present engaging and entertaining works whilst ensuring the history which came before them is not forgotten. The original iteration of the company closed in 1996 having formerly been the resident company of Sadler’s Wells, and internationally recognised as one of the world’s leading dance collectives, patronised by Diana, Princess of Wales. It was sensitively reformed in 2023 after a 30-year hiatus, under the Artistic Direction of Christopher Marney. London City Ballet’s inaugural tour begins in summer 2024 in the UK and internationally. The first tour of the new company will present acclaimed works including the revival of Kenneth MacMillan’s 1972 one-act ballet Ballade unseen in Europe for over fifty years, and a new commission by Olivier-award winner Arielle Smith. The inaugural 2024 tour will pay homage to the company’s early beginnings, shining a bright light on a new legacy. Christopher Marney Chris is a Choreographer, Teacher and former Artistic Director of the Joffrey Ballet Studio Company Chicago and Central School of Ballet in London As a dancer Chris worked internationally for Balletboyz, Gothenburg Ballet Sweden, Ballet Biarritz France, Bern Ballet Switzerland and Matthew Bourne’s New Adventures where he has danced many principal roles around the world. During his time in these companies he performed in works by choreographers William Forsythe, Jiri Kylian, Nacho Duato and John Cranko to name a few. He danced with the Michael Clark Company in The Rite of Spring and Les Noces and his final performance in 2017 was with Ivan Putrov’s Men in Motion where he danced the Faun in Nijinsky’s L’Apres Midi d’un Faun. The Critics Circle National Dance Awards nominated him for Outstanding Performance in Modern Dance two years running as well as being included in Dance Europe’s Outstanding Male Dancer 2013 list. As a choreographer he has created works for Ballet Black, English National Ballet’s Emerging dancer, ‘The Four Seasons’ for the Joffrey Ballet Studio Company, Nutcracker at the British Museum, ‘Eve’ at Sadler’s Wells and ‘Lady Macbeth’ at the New National Theatre in Tokyo. His London West-End credits include choreography for McQueen The Play at the Theatre Royal Haymarket and Tell Me on a Sunday at the St. James. As a Director Chris has had the pleasure of programming diverse tours across the UK & US commissioning new work as wells as presenting repertoire by choreographers George Balanchine, Jasmin Vardimon, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, Kenneth MacMillan, Liam Scarlett, Frederick Ashton and Matthew Bourne, amongst others. He was named associate artist of the UK Foundation for Dance, holds a Masters degree in Choreography and was associate Choreographer for Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty. Chris is patron of the Chelmsford Ballet Company and a guest teacher for ballet companies worldwide. Sadler’s Wells     Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. We strive to make and share dance that inspires us all. Our acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap.   We commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, we have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown. Our acclaimed productions tour the world. Since 2005 we’ve produced 64 new full-length works and performed to audiences of more than two million, touring to 51 countries.   Each year, over half a million people visit our three London theatres - Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Lilian Baylis Studio and Peacock Theatre. Millions more attend our touring productions nationally and internationally or explore our digital platforms, including Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage. Sadler’s Wells East In 2024 we’re opening a fourth London venue in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sadler’s Wells East will house a 550-seat mid-scale theatre, as well as facilities for the new Rose Choreographic School and the hip hop theatre training centre, Academy Breakin’ Convention. Sadler’s Wells East joins the rich cultural heritage of Stratford, opening in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as part of the East Bank development alongside the BBC, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL and the V&A. Sadler’s Wells East will support artist development and training, and the creation of new work. It will build the infrastructure for dance and make it accessible to more people. Sadler’s Wells East will house a flexible theatre presenting a wide variety of dance performances. Community will be at the heart of Sadler’s Wells East with a large open foyer that can be used by everyone as a meeting or performance space. There will also be dance studios and world-class dance facilities for dancemakers to train, create and rehearse productions. Supporting artists Supporting artists is at the heart of our work. We have associate artists and companies, which nurture some of the most exciting talent working in dance today. We host the National Youth Dance Company, which draws together some of the brightest young dancers from across the country. Sadler’s Wells Breakin' Convention runs professional development programmes to champion and develop the world’s best hip hop artists, as well as producing, programming and touring groundbreaking hip hop performances.   Learning and community links Around 30,000 people take part in our learning and engagement programmes every year. We support schools local to our theatres in Islington and Stratford, designing experiences for children and young people to watch, explore and critically engage with the arts. We also run Company of Elders, a resident performance company of dancers aged over 60 who rehearse with renowned artists to make new work for public performances locally, nationally and internationally.   Sadler’s Wells is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.  www.sadlerswells.com   Stay up to date with everything Sadler’s Wells on social media    Facebook: @SadlersWells    Twitter: @Sadlers_Wells    Instagram: @sadlers_wells    YouTube: Sadler’s Wells Theatre

As being very new to ballet-watching this was one of the first productions I saw (in 1985 at the Liverpool Empire ... oh the good old days!) and definitely my first Giselle. I think I have always assumed what you have said Irmgard about the necklace being a sort of dowry and I have applied that to every other conventional Giselle I have seen (rightly or wrongly). Mary (McKendry) Li was my first Giselle possibly with Maurizio Bellezza?

I assume this is the one you mean? https://www.ballet-masterclass.com/master-audition It looks similar to the Barcelona one that has been running for some years (but has completed for 2024): https://www.grandaudition.net/location

Hello Bondmum Your previous thread has some pertinent comments on it. I'll link that one here and lock this one so people can continue to post on your previous thread.

Links - Thursday 18 January, 2024 Obituary - Sarah Stackhouse, dancer with Limón Dance Co: Claudia Bauer, NY Times Review - Bayerisches Staatsballett, Onegin, Munich: Jeanette Andersen, Seeing Dance Review - Mudra Dance Company, Arangetram, Wellington: Jennifer Shannon, ... on dancing Physical Theatre Reviews - Gecko, Kin, London: Zoe Anderson, Independent Arifa Akbar, Guardian Scott Matthewman, Reviews Hub News - Sadler’s Wells reveals new shows for 2024, London: Stephi Wild, Broadway World News Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake marks 30th anniversary with UK tour: Georgia Luckhurst, Stage News - New York Theatre Ballet unveils 2024 world premieres, New York: Chloe Rabinowitz, Broadway World News - Martha Graham Dance Company presents New@Graham with Jamar Roberts, New York: AA Cristi, Broadway World News - Royal Ballet School announces new leadership structure: Georgia Luckhurst, Stage Staff, Arts Professional News - Royal Academy of Dance announces fund raising campaign to support young dancers taking exams: Staff, Theatre Weekly Preview - Washington Ballet, Jazz Icons; A Fine Romance, Washington: AA Cristi, Broadway World Preview - Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Star Dust: From Bach to Ballet, Madison: Staff, Madison 365 Preview Feature - Gravity & Other Myths, The Mirror, Vancouver: Gail Johnson, Stir Video Report - National Ballet of Ukraine in Montreal raising awareness and funds: Gareth Madoc-Jones, Montreal City News Feature - Brett Fukuda reinterprets Balanchine’s Apollo using a female perspective: Laura Cappelle, Pointe Magazine Interview - Stephanie Lake, choreographers: Staff, Australian Arts Review German Interview - Shale Wagman, Bayerisches Staatsballett: Staff, Süddeutsche

English National Ballet has a pay per performance on-demand service I believe.

You are in for a treat!!

The LCB announcement of more tour dates should hopefully be out tomorrow... I'm hoping for some "up North" dates.

English National Opera musicians and singers to go on strike: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-68006230

Hello @Dancenewbie and welcome to the Forum! Here are some older threads it may be worth perusing:

   Press Release: Wednesday 17 January 2024 Sadler’s Wells announces new shows for 2024 The Flamenco Festival returns to Sadler’s Wells this summer for its 19th edition, with seven UK premieres and thrilling performances from flamenco luminaries including Rocío Molina and Eva Yerbabuena and a programme of four works from Ballet Nacional de España. London City Ballet and National Ballet of Canada perform mixed bills on the Sadler’s Wells stage. London City Ballet, a former resident company of Sadler’s Wells, makes its long-awaited return, with Alina Cojocaru appearing as a guest artist in a programme that includes pieces by Kenneth MacMillan, Ashley Page, Arielle Smith and London City Ballet’s Artistic Director, Christopher Marney. The National Ballet of Canada performs work by Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Crystal Pite, alongside fellow Canadian choreographers Emma Portner and James Kudelka. Sadler’s Wells’ West End venue the Peacock Theatre welcomes music performances from The Opera Locos, presenting a comedy musical mashup for opera fans and novices; and A Night with Janis Joplin, honouring the legendary queen of rock & roll and her musical influences. STORIES – The Tap Dance Sensation is a spectacular show from France’s Got Talent finalists RB Dance Company that brings together urban jazz, tap dance and percussion. And finally, start planning this year’s festive treat, as New Adventures presents a stunning revival of Matthew Bourne's multi-award-winning Swan Lake at Sadler’s Wells; and the much-loved The Snowman returns to the Peacock Theatre to delight young audiences. Tickets for newly announced events are on public sale from Friday 26 January at 10 am via www.sadlerswells.com. Booking opens to members on Wednesday 24 January. Yllana The Opera Locos PEACOCK THEATRE Wednesday 8 – Saturday 11 May Tickets from £18 Spanish company Yllana presents The Opera Locos, a musical mashup for opera fans and novices alike. Five colourful characters including Alfredo, a worn-out tenor with a glorious past and wild mezzo soprano Carmen, combine physical comedy and opera classics with pop hits - from Whitney Houston to Mika. FLAMENCO FESTIVAL 2024 Rocío Molina Al Fondo Riela SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Tuesday 4 June Tickets from £15 Rocío Molina opens the Flamenco Festival 2024 with her trademark subversion of flamenco traditions. Using the original flamenco trio of dance, song and guitar, Al Fondo Riela is a piece about reflection and the loss of reality. On stage, she is accompanied by two contrasting guitarists, Eduardo Trassierra with his traditional, technical skill, and Yerai Cortés with his innovative flair. Molina returns after her appearance at the Flamenco Festival in 2019, the same year she won the Critics’ Circle National Dance award for outstanding female performance. In 2022, she became the first flamenco dancer to win the Silver Lion at the Venice Biennale.   Vicente Amigo In Concert SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Wednesday 5 June Tickets from £15 Premier flamenco guitarist and Latin Grammy Award-winner Vicente Amigo comes to Sadler’s Wells with a concert bridging classical and nuevo flamenco. Dubbed one of the most accomplished guitarists of his generation, Amigo fuses jazz, folk and South American rhymes without losing the essence of flamenco. Alfonso Losa & Patricia Guerrero Alter Ego SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Thursday 6 June Tickets from £15 Developed from a series of improvisations in the studio, virtuoso performers Patricia Guerrero and Alfonso Losa strip flamenco bare and explore personal connection in Alter Ego. Guerrero draws geometric figures with her dance, dismantling her movements and recreating them anew. Losa develops new schemes without breaking the mould and stays true to his roots. Eva Yerbabuena Yerbagüena (bright dark) SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Friday 7 – Saturday 8 June Tickets from £15 Eva Yerbabuena reflects on her 20-year career in Yerbagüena, as she takes to the stage with her musical director, guitarist and husband, Paco Jarana, as well as two singers and two percussionists. Her career has included an invitation from Pina Bausch to perform at the Tanztheater Wuppertal 25th anniversary festival, choreographing Mi Niña Manuela for the Ballet Nacional de España, and working with film director Mike Figgis, for the documentary Flamenco Women. Yerbabuena is known for exploring the tension between traditional and nuevo flamenco, and most famously for her interpretations of the soleá - the dance of solitude.   Israel Fernández ft. Diego del Morao In Concert - Pura Sangre SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Sunday 9 June Tickets from £15 Celebrated flamenco musician Israel Fernández presents his latest album Pura Sangre in collaboration with renowned Jerez guitarist Diego del Morao. In his most personal work to date, Pura Sangre is an intimate look at Fernández’s surroundings and his way of interacting with the outside world. Fernández’s album Amor won the Premio Odeón and he has also been nominated for Best Flamenco Album in the Latin Grammy Awards. David Coria & David Lagos Company ¡Fandango! SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Monday 10 June Tickets from £15 Choreographer David Coria and singer David Lagos converge in a contemporary interpretation of the fandango, a popular and festive musical style from Andalusia with more than 500 years of history. From flamenco to contemporary movement, traditional song to electronic music, ¡Fandango! draws on Iberian folk culture to celebrate Spanish history and tradition. Coria has collaborated with numerous Spanish dance companies including Compañía Andaluza de Danza, Ballet Nacional de España, Rafaela Carrasco and Rocío Molina. Lagos won four awards at the Biennal of Flamenco in Seville in 2020 including the award for the best performance. Ballet Nacional de España Invocación SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Wednesday 12 – Saturday 15 June Tickets from £15 Ballet Nacional de España’s Invocación features four works that cover the cornerstones of Spanish dance. Artistic Director Rubén Olmo curates this all-encompassing evening featuring vibrant flamenco, traditional bolero, contemporary dance and classical ballet. De lo Flamenco is a tribute to the legendary dancer and choreographer Mario Maya. Olmo choreographs two works; Jauleña, performed by a different soloist from the company each night, and the colourful, ensemble piece, Invocación Bolera. Finally, Antonio Najarro’s Eterna Iberia features the signature elements of Spanish dance – castanets, the Spanish Cape, and the Cordobes Hat. As one of the main cultural ambassadors of Spain to the world, Ballet Nacional de España highlights Spain’s rich choreographic heritage. The National Ballet, founded by the Ministry of Culture in 1978, continues to set the standard for Spanish dance. MPSI Ltd A Night with Janis Joplin PEACOCK THEATRE Tuesday 20 August – Saturday 28 September Tickets from £18   A Night with Janis Joplin is a musical journey celebrating Janis Joplin and her biggest musical influences—icons like Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Odetta, Nina Simone and Bessie Smith. Exploding onto the music scene in 1967, Janis Joplin became the queen of rock & roll almost overnight. The unmistakable voice, filled with raw emotion and tinged with Southern Comfort, made her a must-see headliner from Monterey to Woodstock.  Written and directed by Randy Johnson, this award-winning show honouring Joplin and her inspirations comes to the Peacock Theatre direct from Broadway.  London City Ballet Resurgence SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE Wednesday 11 – Saturday 14 September Tickets from £15 London City Ballet, former resident company of Sadler’s Wells, makes its long-awaited return to the world stage. Last seen almost 30 years ago, the international company of dancers are touring the world in 2024 with a programme of acclaimed works. Internationally celebrated ballerina Alina Cojocaru appears as a guest artist in the revival of Kenneth MacMillan’s 1972 one-act ballet Ballade, unseen in Europe for over 50 years. Ashley Page’s Larina Waltz marks the ballet’s 30th anniversary, and Olivier Award-winner Arielle Smith premieres a new work. Eve, a full company work by Christopher Marney, which premiered at Sadler’s Wells in 2022 with Fabula Collective, will close the evening. Artistic Director Christopher Marney has spent over a year rebuilding London City Ballet and these comeback performances remember the company’s roots in the form of rarely-seen archival footage. The National Ballet of Canada Frontiers: Choreographers of Canada Pite/ Kudelka/ Portner SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Wednesday 2 – Sunday 6 October Tickets from £15 The National Ballet of Canada presents a triple bill with works by three leading choreographers hailing from Canada: Crystal Pite, Emma Portner and James Kudelka.   Crystal Pite created Angels’ Atlas for the company in March 2020. The Dora Award-winning ballet unfolds against a morphing wall of light that carries the illusion of depth and a sense of the natural world. The dancing body becomes a sign of humanity’s limitations within a vast, unknowable world. The ballet is set to original music by Owen Belton and choral pieces by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Morten Lauridsen. Emma Portner presents islands, a sculptural duet for two women in which the dancers are joined, fusing their bodies together as one. The work is set to an eclectic compilation of music by contemporary artists as well as original music by Forest Swords, bringing together hip hop, dub, guitar loops and electronic sampling for a rhythmic, avant-garde sound.  James Kudelka’s Passion is a love story set to the first movement of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Concerto for Piano in D, Op. 61a. Two couples each stylistically unique – one classical, the other contemporary – weave within the Corps de Ballet, evoking complex relationships of passion. Crystal Pite is a Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist RB Dance Company STORIES – The Tap Dance Sensation PEACOCK THEATRE - UK PREMIERE Wednesday 23 October – Saturday 2 November Tickets from £15 Icarus – a young actor – is already a big hit on screen. Yet, behind the scenes, he's under the oppressive influence of his director. After an argument, Icarus finds himself trapped in the movie, unable to escape the film director’s stranglehold. This spectacular show from France’s Got Talent finalists RB Dance Company brings together urban jazz, tap dance and percussion. After over 100 performances in Paris reaching audiences of more than 100,000 people, STORIES receives its UK premiere at the Peacock Theatre. Birmingham Rep The Snowman PEACOCK THEATRE Wednesday 23 November – Saturday 4 January 25 Tickets from £18 Winter family favourite The Snowman returns to the Peacock Theatre for its 27th year. A magical stage adaptation of the much-loved picture book by Raymond Briggs and the film directed by Dianne Jackson, The Snowman is the timeless tale of a boy and a snowman who comes to life. The Snowman is directed by Bill Alexander and features music and lyrics by Howard Blake, including the song ‘Walking in the Air’, design by Ruari Murchison, lighting by Tim Mitchell, and choreography by Robert North, all of which is accompanied by a live orchestra. New Adventures Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake The Next Generation SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE Tuesday 3 December 2024 – Sunday 26 January 2025 Tickets from £15 Matthew Bourne's audacious, rule-breaking reinvention of Tchaikovsky's masterpiece caused a sensation when it premiered almost 30 years ago. Thrilling, bold, witty and emotive, it is still best known for replacing the female corps-de-ballet with a menacing male ensemble, which shattered convention, turning tradition on its head. It has now become the most successful dance theatre production of all time, creating new audiences and inspiring generations of young dancers. In celebration of that ongoing impact, Swan Lake returns in a major new revival. First staged at Sadler’s Wells in 1995, Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake has been performed across the globe, collecting over 30 international accolades including the Olivier Award for Best New Dance Production and three Tony Awards for Best Director of a Musical, Best Choreography and Best Costume Design. Matthew Bourne is a Sadler’s Wells Associate Artist Choreographer Conversations: Join acclaimed choreographers in conversation with Sadler’s Wells Artistic Director and Co-Chief Executive Sir Alistair Spalding CBE, to discover what moves the world’s most influential choreographers working in dance today. The live conversations are recorded for Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage. Wayne McGregor CBE LILIAN BAYLIS STUDIO Friday 15 March at 6.15 pm Tickets: £5 Crystal Pite & Jonathon Young LILIAN BAYLIS STUDIO Friday 22 March at 6.15 pm Tickets: £5 And on Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage: Michael Keegan-Dolan Akram Khan NOTES TO EDITORS About Sadler’s Wells     Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. We strive to make and share dance that inspires us all. Our acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap.   We commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, we have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown. Our acclaimed productions tour the world. Since 2005 we’ve produced 64 new full-length works and performed to audiences of more than two million, touring to 51 countries.   Each year, over half a million people visit our three London theatres - Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Lilian Baylis Studio and Peacock Theatre. Millions more attend our touring productions nationally and internationally or explore our digital platforms, including Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage. Sadler’s Wells East In 2024 we’re opening a fourth London venue in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sadler’s Wells East will house a 550-seat mid-scale theatre, as well as facilities for the new Rose Choreographic School and the hip hop theatre training centre, Academy Breakin’ Convention. Sadler’s Wells East joins the rich cultural heritage of Stratford, opening in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as part of the East Bank development alongside the BBC, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL and the V&A. Sadler’s Wells East will support artist development and training, and the creation of new work. It will build the infrastructure for dance and make it accessible to more people. Sadler’s Wells East will house a flexible theatre presenting a wide variety of dance performances. Community will be at the heart of Sadler’s Wells East with a large open foyer that can be used by everyone as a meeting or performance space. There will also be dance studios and world-class dance facilities for dancemakers to train, create and rehearse productions. Supporting artists Supporting artists is at the heart of our work. We have associate artists and companies, which nurture some of the most exciting talent working in dance today. We host the National Youth Dance Company, which draws together some of the brightest young dancers from across the country. Sadler’s Wells Breakin' Convention runs professional development programmes to champion and develop the world’s best hip hop artists, as well as producing, programming and touring groundbreaking hip hop performances.   Learning and community links Around 30,000 people take part in our learning and engagement programmes every year. We support schools local to our theatres in Islington and Stratford, designing experiences for children and young people to watch, explore and critically engage with the arts. We also run Company of Elders, a resident performance company of dancers aged over 60 who rehearse with renowned artists to make new work for public performances locally, nationally and internationally.   Sadler’s Wells is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.   www.sadlerswells.com   Stay up to date with everything Sadler’s Wells on social media    Facebook: @SadlersWells    Twitter: @Sadlers_Wells    Instagram: @sadlers_wells    YouTube: Sadler’s Wells Theatre

PRESS RELEASE 17/01/24 Royal Academy of Dance announces fundraising campaign to support young dancers taking exams Steps to Success will make a world of difference to young dancers facing financial difficulty Image courtesy of Álvaro Gonçalves Ballet school in Manaus, Brazil. Royal Academy of Dance has launched a new fundraising campaign to provide financial support for young dancers taking RAD exams across the world. Named ‘Steps to Success’ the campaign, which was announced at a Patron’s Circle event at RAD’s HQ in London last night, is designed to widen access to dance internationally. The event was attended by dance stars and celebrities and celebrated the importance of vital dance education globally. RAD ballet examinations make a huge and palpable impact across the world, with 219,697 RAD ballet exams taken globally last year. Progressing through examinations in dance gives young people the confidence, application and determination that will help them excel in whatever career path they choose to take. Although the demand for exams continues to be high, cost of living crises around the world mean that for some aspiring dancers, access to important dance training and examinations is challenging. A.R.A.D. RAD Examiner Cynthia Fisher based in Canada says: “I am sure that teachers often subsidize the cost of training for students who show commitment and potential but may not have the financial resources to pursue as much training as they need or desire. Increasingly, as a result of the current economic climate teachers and dance schools themselves are experiencing hardship. This [funding] will be very helpful to support deserving pupils.” Rosana Presente from Brazil says: “Lately, it has been very difficult to enter students for RAD exams. In 2024 we hope to have more sponsorship to give some of them the conditions to enter the exams, but paying the fee is still a big problem.” Commenting on the impact that financial support has on their dancing dreams, young dancer Nanami says: “I would like to say thank you so much for giving me this chance, so that I could do the RAD Intermediate Foundation examination. My parents work very hard but because they earn in Ghana cedi. It makes it very difficult for them to pay in dollars or pounds equivalent fees. I have 4 siblings, so it is hard for them, but they always try to give us the best things available.” Speaking of the Steps to Success campaign, Tim Arthur Chief Executive of the RAD says: “We are delighted to be launching Steps to Success which will create important opportunities for young dancers across the globe and play a part in breaking those barriers that currently make dance inaccessible to certain communities.” Members of the public can give young dancers from across the world the chance to dance by making a donation: £50 could enable a child to take their very first exam £150 could help a student take intermediate exam, opening the door to a future as a dance teacher £250 could help a young dancer be one of the few candidates around the world to achieve Solo Seal £500 could help a whole class in a developing country take an exam £1,000 could support a school in an under-served community enter their students in exams. All donations are then matched by an RAD donor, meaning that for each exam that is funded, two dancers will be supported. Supporting young people with their RAD exams ensures that everybody is able to dance. For more information on Steps to Success and to donate visit: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/support-us-old/steps-to-success/. The public has until March 2024 to donate. Photo courtesy of RAD Registered Teacher Irmak Yazgan based in Turkey. Notes to Editors Royal Academy of Dance Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is one of the most influential dance education and training organisations in the world with a strong global membership in 85 countries. Established in 1920 to improve standards and re-invigorate dance training, the Academy helps and encourages its teachers to perfect their teaching skills and pass on this knowledge to their students. There are currently over 1,000 students in full-time or part-time teacher training programmes with the Academy and each year the examination syllabus is taught to thousands of young people worldwide, with around a quarter of a million pupils per year going on to take RAD exams. www.royalacademyofdance.org

RB Dance Company presents Stories UK Premiere Wednesday 23 October - Saturday 2 November 2024 Peacock Theatre, WC2A www.sadlerswells.com Fresh from a sold-out European tour, France’s Got Talent finalists, RB Dance Company, presents the UK premiere of its critically acclaimed, award-winning production Stories at Sadler’s Wells’ Peacock Theatre from Wednesday 23 October - Saturday 2 November 2024. A modern take on tap dance, Stories is a bold, energetic show that centres on Icarus, a successful young actor who is forced to comply with a film director’s oppressive conditions that ultimately leave him trapped in the film and unable to escape his control. Conceived by Romain Rachline Borgeaud, the story is brought to life by a cast of 10 dancers performing a fusion of tap dance and urban jazz to an original score by Romain. A moveable and interchangeable set by Federica Mugnai transports audiences through Icarus’ cinematic world of film sets, hotels, and gambling clubs, enhanced through creative lighting by Alex Hardellet and costumes by Margaux Ponsard and Janie Loriault. Led by artistic director, choreographer and producer Romain Rachline Borgeaud, RB Dance Company was established in 2018 to bring tap dance up-to-date and restore its reputation back to its former glory days. The company aims to make tap accessible and resonate with audiences today through large-scale narrative dance works. In its homeland of France, RB Dance Company found fame when it became a finalist on France’s Got Talent in 2018 and following performances on the 2021 final of Dancing with the Stars (France) and Miss France 2022. The company’s first stage production, Stories premiered to rave reviews and won three awards at Les Trophées De La Comédie Musicale, the French Olivier Awards. This year sees RB Dance Company embark on a world tour of the production across Europe, the UK, and North America. Romain Rachline Borgeaud started tap dancing at a young age and later trained in jazz. He continued his training at The Ailey School, the official school of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, in New York and went on to perform in several musicals on Broadway. On his return to France, he performed in Dance of the Vampires, and Stephen Mear’s Singin’ in the Rain and 42nd Street. He also choreographed the opening ceremony for the 2016 Champs Elysées Film Festival before founding RB Dance Company in 2018. Of Stories, Roman Rachline Borgeaud said: “After presenting over 100 performances in my home country I am thrilled to bring Stories to London’s West End this autumn. My intention for this show was to explore the theme of duality and convey the hero, Icarus’ explosive inner journey through a contemporary take on tap. I hope audiences enjoy coming on this exciting journey into the unknown with us, as they experience the joy and truly entertaining world of tap.” Notes to Editors Creative Team Romain Rachline Borgeaud - Artistic Director, Choreographer, Producer Houdia Ponty - Assistant Director Sacha Néel - Assistant Choreographer Federica Mugnai - Set Design Alex Hardellet - Lighting Design Margaux Ponsard & Janie Loriault - Costume design Bruno Segni - Hair & Make-up Design Dancers Aaron Colston Avella Hiles Angel Cubero Lisa Delolme Geoffrey Goutorbe Camille Lambese Deborah Lotti Antoine Nya Sandra Pericou Paul Redier Malory Hyvelin

balletLORENT                                  The Velveteen Rabbit Lillian Baylis Studio Friday 5 & Saturday 6 April 2024 Tickets: £12 - £18 Ticket Office: 020 7863 8000 or www.sadlerswells.com © Luke Waddington balletLORENT's new family show The Velveteen Rabbit comes to the Lilian Baylis Studio during the Easter holidays from Friday 5 – Saturday 6 April 2024. Inspired by the book of the same name by Margery Williams, balletLORENT reimagines the 102-year-old classic children’s tale in a dance theatre production for the whole family. The Velveteen Rabbit sees a nursery of toys come to life through the magic of storytelling, music and dance. In this heartwarming show, a stuffed rabbit and a grown-up boy wonder about the reality of getting older. As shared adventures lead the toy rabbit to grow closer to the young boy who sleeps and plays in the nursery, the pair discover the transformative power of love. In this production, Margery Williams’ tale has been updated to include a new ending and additional characters. The story was first published in Harper's Bazaar in 1921 and was published as a book in 1922. Featuring a cast of six dancers, the production is directed by Liv Lorent and narrated by Ben Crompton (Game of Thrones, Pram Face, Ideal). Music is by Dr Who composer Murray Gold and Albie Crompton with lighting design by Malcom Rippeth. Natalie MacGillivray plays the Velveteen Rabbit and Gavin Coward is the Boy. The cast also includes Toby Fitzgibbons, Virginia Scudeletti, Berta Admetlla and Montaine Ponceau. The Velveteen Rabbit features a tactile and retro set and props, hand-knitted by a group of women from across Newcastle who have taken part in a pilot creative project set up by balletLORENT, under the guidance of fashion designer Nasir Mazhar. Based in the North East of England, balletLORENT is dedicated to creating ambitious, inclusive and high-quality work. The Velveteen Rabbit had its world premiere at The John Marley Centre in Newcastle last November as part of the company’s 30th anniversary celebrations. Liv Lorent, balletLORENT Artistic Director said “The themes of The Velveteen Rabbit of resilience - and finding how to be real - are timeless and encourages children to be their individual best selves brilliantly. This dance theatre adventure transports us to the escapism of childhood imagination and inhabits a land of magical toys and wild rabbits. It’s a show with 12 dancing characters who are funny, wise and relatable for adults and children alike.” balletLORENT is a Sadler’s Wells National Partner Company Recommended Age Guidance 4 – to 10-year-olds Supported by the Mohn Westlake Foundation Listings Information balletLORENT                                  The Velveteen Rabbit Lillian Baylis Studio Friday 5 & Saturday 6 April 2024 Tickets: £12 - £18 Ticket Office: 020 7863 8000 or www.sadlerswells.com Cast and creative team Natalie MacGillivray - Velveteen Rabbit Gavin Coward - Boy, Nana, Astronaut Toby Fitzgibbons - Tin Robot, Rag Doll, Wild Rabbit, Soldier Virginia Scudeletti - Skin Horse, Playroom Fairy, Pink Dolly Berta Admetlla - Wild Rabbit, Monkey, Donkey Montaine Ponceau - Wild Rabbit, Robot   Directed by: Liv Lorent Choreography by: Liv Lorent, the Dancers and Creative Partners Narrator: Ben Crompton Costume and Set Design: Nasir Mazhar Music composed and recorded by: Murray Gold and Albie Crompton Lighting Designer: Malcom Rippeth Creative Partners: Debbi Purtill and Geoff Hopson About balletLORENT balletLORENT is female led, and is the North East England’s leading Dance Theatre company dedicated to creating ambitious, inclusive, high-quality work, touring to the UK’s most prestigious theatres. The company was founded by Liv Lorent (MBE) in 1993 and has toured works nationally and internationally to much acclaim, including: Strange Glitter; The Ball; la nuit intime; Angelmoth; Designer Body; Blood, Sweat & Tears; Underneath the Floorboards The Night Ball and Love Struck. balletLORENT’s recent artistic programme has focused on the making of a trilogy of fairytales Directed by Liv Lorent and retold by Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy. These works captured family audiences and include Rapunzel, Snow White and Rumpelstiltskin, continuing the collaboration with the most recent fairytale, an original story by Carol Ann Duffy, The Lost Happy Endings. About Sadler’s Wells     Sadler's Wells is a world-leading dance organisation. We strive to make and share dance that inspires us all. Our acclaimed year-round programme spans dance of every kind, from contemporary to flamenco, Bollywood to ballet, salsa to street dance and tango to tap.   We commission, produce and present more dance than any other organisation in the world. Since 2005, we have helped to bring more than 200 new dance works to the stage, embracing both the popular and the unknown. Our acclaimed productions tour the world. Since 2005 we’ve produced 64 new full-length works and performed to audiences of more than two million, touring to 51 countries.   Each year, over half a million people visit our three London theatres - Sadler’s Wells Theatre, Lilian Baylis Studio and Peacock Theatre. Millions more attend our touring productions nationally and internationally or explore our digital platforms, including Sadler’s Wells Digital Stage. Sadler’s Wells East In 2024 we’re opening a fourth London venue in Stratford’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Sadler’s Wells East will house a 550-seat mid-scale theatre, as well as facilities for the new Rose Choreographic School and the hip hop theatre training centre, Academy Breakin’ Convention. Sadler’s Wells East joins the rich cultural heritage of Stratford, opening in London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park as part of the East Bank development alongside the BBC, UAL’s London College of Fashion, UCL and the V&A. Sadler’s Wells East will support artist development and training, and the creation of new work. It will build the infrastructure for dance and make it accessible to more people. Sadler’s Wells East will house a flexible theatre presenting a wide variety of dance performances. Community will be at the heart of Sadler’s Wells East with a large open foyer that can be used by everyone as a meeting or performance space. There will also be dance studios and world-class dance facilities for dancemakers to train, create and rehearse productions. Supporting artists Supporting artists is at the heart of our work. We have associate artists and companies, which nurture some of the most exciting talent working in dance today. We host the National Youth Dance Company, which draws together some of the brightest young dancers from across the country. Sadler’s Wells Breakin' Convention runs professional development programmes to champion and develop the world’s best hip hop artists, as well as producing, programming and touring groundbreaking hip hop performances.   Learning and community links Around 30,000 people take part in our learning and engagement programmes every year. We support schools local to our theatres in Islington and Stratford, designing experiences for children and young people to watch, explore and critically engage with the arts. We also run Company of Elders, a resident performance company of dancers aged over 60 who rehearse with renowned artists to make new work for public performances locally, nationally and internationally.   Sadler’s Wells is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.   www.sadlerswells.com   Stay up to date with everything Sadler’s Wells on social media    Facebook: @SadlersWells    Twitter: @Sadlers_Wells    Instagram: @sadlers_wells    YouTube: Sadler’s Wells Theatre   

Links - Wednesday 17 January, 2024 Obituary - Anthony Russell-Roberts, former artistic administrator of the Royal Ballet: Alastair Macaulay, Essays Review - English National Ballet, Giselle, London: Jim Pritchard, Seen and Heard International Reviews - New Movement Collective, Les Noces - The Departure, London: Louise Levene, FT Matthew Paluch, Gramilano Tamsin Flower, British Theatre Guide Review - Motion/Matter Street dance Festival, New York: Brian Seibert, NY Times Review - Suresnes Cités Danse, opening weekend, Paris: Laura Cappelle, FT Review - Sydney Festival 2024, part 1 (various artists), Sydney: Geraldine Higginson, Dance Australia Cinema Preview - Dutch National Ballet, Giselle: Jim Pritchard, Seen and Heard International Preview - New York City Ballet, Winter Season 2024: Staff, City Life Preview - Ballet Nights 4, mixed programme, London: Teresa Guerreiro, Culture Whisper Preview - Joffrey Ballet, Studies in Blue (triple bill by British choreographers), Chicago: Chloe Rabinowitz, Broadway World Preview - T.H.E. Dance Company, Rethinking Co-Existence, London: Teresa Guerreiro, Culture Whisper Interviews - Mark Morris talks about dance, Burt Bacharach & The Look of Love: Michael Crabb, Toronto Star Paula Citron, Ludwig Van Video Feature - How diverse is the Berlin Staatsballet ballet company: Megan Leigh, DW Feature - Nora Kovach, the ballerina who defected from Hungary in 1953: Charlie Connelly, New European Essay - A faded postcard from Antoinette Sibley: Alastair Macaulay, Blog Feature - Joe Lanteri, New York City Dance Alliance: Margaret Fuhrer, NY Times Feature - Audition mix-up bags Mackworth mum role in fairytale ballet: Will Jefford, BBC Video Feature - Trying out for the Royal Winnipeg Ballet: Staff, CBC

@Terpsichore may understand this more than me. But the implications could be enormous for any ballet company that has a production of R&J.

I believe it was a production by Peter Schaufuss and his son Luke was one of the James.

This is such sad news. RIP