Balanchine Lives!

1998 / 58 min. / color
Directed by Michael Blackwood

With the participation of Karin von Aroldingen, Elyse Borne, Suzanne Farrell, Nanette Glushak, Susan Hendl, Barbara Horgan, Patricia Neary, Francia Russell, Edward Villella, Patricia Wilde, and others.

“When I die,” George Balanchine stated in his most apocalyptic utterance, “everything should vanish.” The artist did not expect his ballets to survive, and if it were up to him, they would no longer be seen and yet his dances are being staged more often than ever, abetted by the tireless efforts of his followers. Though he passed away in 1983, Balanchine’s works have been kept alive through the Balanchine Trust, established in 1987, through which a team of his former dancers ensure the artistic integrity and fidelity of his ballets. These dedicated former principals are able to recollect the unique touch of their late mentor, while being kept flexible by the fresh new ideas put forth by the young bodies and minds of a new generation of dancers. Together they insure that the Balanchine flame will be kept alive well into the 21st century.