Kansas City Ballet York City Ballet dancer Patricia McBride performed her first full-length production of "Giselle" with the KCB. In January 1981, Todd Bolender, a renowned and long-time New York City Ballet (NYCB) dancer, teacher, and choreographer, accepted the artistic directorship of the Kansas City Ballet. His first year proved to be pivotal for the company with the introduction of major new works and the implementation of several major initiatives. In May 1982, Bolender saluted his mentor, George Balanchine, by presenting a four-day Balanchine Festival at the Lyric Theatre. Kevin Amey joined KCB as company manager in February 1983. During the 1983-1984 season,
In the Wings: Behind the Scenes at the New York City Ballet personal diary of a dancer's day: Ch.1 is "10:15AM," Ch. 2 is "11:30AM," Ch. 3 is "2:15," Ch. 4 is "6:15," and Ch. 5 is "Showtime." From morning company class to rehearsal to performance, the text offers intriguing insights into the mental discipline and emotions that come into play in preparing for the show. The foreword is written by Peter Martins, balletmaster in chief of New York City Ballet. He says of the book, "Here is the New York City Ballet as it really is – the good, the not so good, and the majestically beautiful. It's a true story,