Maurice Ravel’s “Boléro” is defined by its relentless rhythm. Throughout the 15-minute piece, a steady beat accompanies evolving melodies that build to a final crescendo. The unique progression of the classical composition is what inspired Rochester City Ballet Co-Artistic Director Shannon Purpura to choreograph a new work, set to premiere as part of the mixed bill “VISIONARY” at the Rochester Institute of Technology’s Lyndon Baines Johnson Hall February 21-23.
“When I hear ‘Boléro,’ I hear life’s journey and the different paths someone can choose to take in life,” Purpura said.
In her choreography, pairs of dancers—each clad in a distinct color—symbolize a unique life path, their elegant extensions and modern partnering reflecting the music’s evolution.
Rochester City Ballet’s other co-artistic director, Megan Kamler, stars as the featured soloist. She has been with the company since 2011 and trained throughout her childhood at the Draper Center for Dance Education. Kamler’s extensive experience and comfortability in the group is evident in the way she moves among the duets. She fully embraces Purpura’s choreography, exuding confidence and a sense of breath that flows throughout her body.
“I grew up watching Megan, and it’s so special to work with her,” said Purpura. “I can give her anything and she’ll make it look like a walk in the park.”
Kamler is joined by eight other dancers in “Boléro,” including first-year apprentice Marlene Roberts, who dances with a stunning combination of fluidity and specificity one would expect from a more seasoned dancer. She is one of eight company members who joined Rochester City Ballet last fall. For Roberts, Rochester City Ballet’s unique structure sets the company apart.
“Seeing two women directing a company in an industry where the role is typically given to men is so inspiring and refreshing,” she said.
Purpura and Kamler plan to continue expanding the company by adding male dancers next season, paving the way for evening-length works and a broader repertoire. With this growth, both directors have assumed more behind-the-scenes responsibilities. Notably, this will be the first Rochester City Ballet show in 11 years where Purpura will not perform.
“I’m taking a bigger step forward in the artistic director job, which is a big transition, and the transition I want to make,” she said.
Recently married, Purpura finds the theme of alternate life paths in “Boléro” especially poignant during her own transformative period of life.
“Boléro” will debut alongside a new work by Katherine Duffy, performed by RIT students, and two pieces from the company’s archives. Former Artistic Director David Palmer’s “Birth of Angels”—set to Samuel Barber’s “Adagio for Strings”—will be reinterpreted by an entirely new cast, and the show will close with Aldo Kattón Santiago Mendez’s “Agua Fresca,” a Latin cultural celebration that premiered at the 2024 Rochester Fringe Festival.
“VISIONARY” will take place February 21-23 at Lyndon Baines Johnson Hall at Rochester Institute for Technology. Tickets are available here.
Sydney Burrows is a contributor to C
This article appears in Dec 1-31, 2024.
