Meet the Characters | Reckless

Hear from the dancers about the characters they are portraying in Julianna Rubio Slager’s newest work, Reckless. Company Artist James Wainwright shares about his character.

1. What role/character will you be dancing in Reckless?

I play the role of International Blue, the pimp who gets Gomer into the world of prostitution and sex trafficking.

2. How did you research/prepare for your role? What is something that stood out to you in your research?

There were many interviews and articles I've read about the perspective and lifestyle of people similar to Blue. It's a very skewed world, and the self-righteous hypocrisy and manipulation of these men have astounded me at many points.

3. Describe the movement/style of the choreography. Is it different/the same as what you've done before? What is the most challenging aspect of the ballet?

International Blue's movement is very smooth, very circular. He's always trying to show a good face in order to get on the best terms, then turns that around into a hold on these women to keep them in his reach. The partnering is very two-sided, one moment sweet, the next moment sadistic. I think with this the emotional quality I have to put into Blue's movement will be the hardest part of this ballet.

4. Why should audiences see Reckless?

This ballet is an artistic lens into the path women and young girls are forced down with this very current problem of sex trafficking. It is happening, and it's evolved in so many ways. Hopefully, this piece can shed some light on the horror that it is.