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NJ Ballet's "New Direction" Marks First Residency at Mayo Performing Arts Center


By Gina Marie Rodriguez & Dave Tavani

originally published: 11/10/2022


Under the direction of new Artistic Director Maria Kowroski, the New Jersey Ballet will present their latest production, "New Direction," at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC) on Nov. 19. The 2022-2023 season is the NJ Ballet's first as the resident ballet company of the MPAC.

"New Direction" will feature three unique pieces — "Hallelujah Junction," "World Premiere" and "Who Cares." The three pieces will feature the choreography of Peter Martins, Harrison Ball and George Balanchine. A special treat, Harrison Ball's piece will showcase costumes designed by fashion designer Zac Posen.

Correspondent Gina Marie Rodriguez speaks with Artistic Director Maria Kowroski and company dancers Denise Parungau, Ilse Kapteyn and Jonatan Lujan about the joy of dance.

 

Gina Marie Rodriguez is an award-winning screenwriter, director, and actress. Her foray into filmmaking began at a young age as a way to avoid public speaking in school. From there, it grew into a love of telling stories and creating new worlds. Gina Marie boasts a Bronze Remi win from Worldfest Houston, Best Female Filmmaker from the Cosmic Film Festival, and a Best Actress in a Comedy from the Hang Onto Your Shorts Film Festival alongside nominations from the Golden Door International Film Festival, Official Latino Film and Arts Festival and Los Angeles Cinefest among others.
Dave Tavani is a freelance videographer and still photographer based in the Philadelphia area. In recent years, Dave has worked on a variety of projects, mostly for nonprofit and arts organizations. In addition to JerseyArts.com, he works on video projects for McCarter Theatre Center, The Pew Center for Arts & Heritage, Visit Philadelphia, Bristol Riverside Theatre, Al-Bustan Seeds of Culture, The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, and ArtPride New Jersey.




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