Culture of New York City work. In these works each element is in and of itself expressive, and the observer determines what it communicates. George Balanchine, one of the 20th century's foremost choreographers and the first pioneer of contemporary ballet, formed a bridge between classical and modern ballet. Balanchine used flexed hands (and occasionally feet), turned-in legs, off-centered positions and non-classical costumes to distance himself from the classical and romantic ballet traditions. Balanchine also brought modern dancers in to dance with his company, the New York City Ballet; one such dancer was Paul Taylor, who in 1959 performed in Balanchine's piece "Episodes". Another significant modern
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,