Ellington Nichols | Season in Review
One of our Ballet 5:8 traditions at the end of each performance season is to ask the artists of the company to share some reflections with us. A special thank you to the artists of the company for sharing about their experiences in the 2021/22 Season.
Ellington Nichols in rehearsal
Q. Pick one word to describe the 2021/22 Season. Why?
A. Exhilarating! From the different repertoire to all the touring and performing, this season was nothing short of exhilarating.
Q. Can you share a favorite moment from on- or off-stage?
A. There are so many to choose from but one that stands out to me is performing Julianna Rubio Slager's Todo Raba in Grand Rapids. At the beginning of the piece, we all start on stage in various positions and levels. I am kneeling at the front of the stage looking out into the blackness of the audience. The lights start dim, but gradually increase in brightness. It’s one of my favorite moments because I get to remember the journey that brought me to Ballet 5:8 and bask in the splendor of God’s faithfulness, not only to me, but to Ballet 5:8 as a whole. It reminds me of all the gratitude I have for this company, its leaders, and artists.
Q. You performed many works this season! Does one stand out as the most meaningful or most notable for you personally? Why?
A. Each piece is meaningful in its own unique way. I think Brothers and Sisters would be the most notable piece, just because it was the first piece set on the company when I came to Ballet 5:8 back in 2019. It’s so surreal to see the growth not only in myself but in my fellow colleagues. The piece is very challenging yet extremely fun and light-hearted to perform on stage with my Brothers and Sisters in Christ.
Q. What or who has inspired you this season?
A. My colleagues. They inspire me every day in class, around the studio, on tour, and on stage. Their passion, dedication, artistry, grit, and sacrifice inspire me constantly.
Q. What are you looking forward to next season?
A. So many things, but specifically all of the new repertoire that is planned for the upcoming season. I’m excited to begin working on BareFace, as well as work with some guest choreographers that are coming in to set new pieces.