Ford Tackett | 22/23 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 2022/23 Season.

Photo by Kristie Kahns.

Q. Pick one word to describe the 2022/23 Season. Why?

A. Versatility. Our repertoire ranged from purely classical ballet to modern-based movement to inventive methods of storytelling.

Q. Can you share a favorite moment from on- or off-stage?

A. One of my favorite moments was performing Julianna Rubio Slager’s Mi Familia because of its exciting nature and the fun interactions I had with my fellow dancers.

Q. You performed many works this season! Does one stand out as the most meaningful or most notable for you personally? Why?

A. BareFace (choreographed by Rubio Slager) stands out as the most meaningful to me because it caused me to reflect deeply on the the meaning of love, how love can be manifested uniquely to each individual, and how love can be twisted for personal gain. It allowed me to question whether I view the world clearly or through a darkened lense.

Q. What or who has inspired you this season?

A. My colleague Laura Peterman Willis has been an inspiration to me this season. Her kindness and steadfast love for those around her, displayed with thoughtfulness and understanding care, are evident. In dance her technique and artistry are something to aspire to.  Her perseverance, consistency, and dedication are all qualities I admire in her.

Q. What are you looking forward to next season?

A. I'm looking forward to perfecting the familiar and accepting the challenge of the unknown.