This past Sunday, Columbia Ballet Collaborative (CBC) put on their Spring Showcase in the Miller Theater.

Since seeing the Nutcracker nearly ten years ago, I have jumped at any opportunity to see ballet. So, naturally, after a dancer friend informed me, I eagerly attended Columbia Ballet Collaborative’s Spring Gala. The showcase included five original works choreographed for the show. The choreographers ranged from students to internationally acclaimed dancers. While most of the pieces were fairly short, they all left a tremendous impression on me.

My friend (and fellow Bwogger) performed in the first piece, “Preludes to Nothing,” choreographed by Tiffany Mangulabnan. While I might be biased, it was incredible. The dancers’ fluid movements worked harmoniously with their airy, earth toned costumes and the piece felt both soft and rich with emotion.

The piece that followed was “Miles Style”, a fascinating blend of classical ballet and jazz. As Miles Davis’ iconic trumpet echoed through the theater, the dancers entered in leotards, tutus and pointe shoes. These seemingly incongruent styles were blended masterfully by choreographer Kate Thomas and delightfully executed by all the dancers. I was particularly captivated by JiaLi Deck (BC ‘28), with her unwavering smile and crisp movements. This piece exemplified CBC’s goal of showcasing new ideas and visions in ballet. 

Next came “tie & untie”, choreographed by student choreographer Tatiana Heintz (CC ’26). The music, a hypnotic rhythm based piece, was composed by Murat Gulcelik (CC ’25). This number showed off the exceptional teamwork of the dancers as they ebbed and flowed gracefully. I enjoyed watching the dancers expertly mimicking each other’s movements. This piece was quite moving as the passion of the dancers, as well as the talent of the students choreographing and composing, was evident. The dancers also donned red socks that I found very amusing. This was my personal favorite of the evening.

After a short intermission came “Battle of the Band,” choreographed by Kailei Sin. This piece had everything you could ask for in a performance: quirky denim costumes, detailed choreography, and theatrical performances. After intermission I was able to find a seat closer to the stage and was entranced by the facial expressions of the dancers. Through the dancers’ structured movements and intense expressions, the piece had an almost militaristic quality. 

The final number took my breath away. Choreographed by the internationally acclaimed dancer and choreographer Valentino Zucchetti, “Anemoi – Second Movement” was technically astounding and truly had me at the edge of my seat. Although the entire piece was wonderful, several moments stood out. As she entered in a fabulous red dress, Samantha Sacks (CC ‘22) had confidence and ease practically oozing off her. I was also struck by her composure while executing complex lifts and turns. I was similarly impressed by Elizabeth Hasapis (CC ‘26) who imbued such a strong character and emotion into her performance, which I especially appreciated in the final moment of the performance as she glanced playfully back at the audience. 

All together, Columbia Ballet Collaborative put on an incredible show that illustrated the strength, grace and technical achievement of the dancers. As a non-dancer, I cannot begin to imagine all the work that went into one turn, let alone an entire ten-minute piece. Although each piece felt completely different from the next, I enjoyed seeing how stylistically diverse ballet, which is often misrepresented as homogenous, could be. The Spring Gala was certainly a highlight of my semester and I greatly look forward to attending their next performance.

Images via Bwog Staff