Unity Phelan Instagram – On today, the 90th Anniversary of “Serenade”, I remember not only the amazing moments on stage during the ballet, but the people who I’ve shared these moments with. I was lucky enough to have the first @nycballet show I ever attended begin with Serenade and I fell in love. The abandon, the clarity, the cohesion in spirit, it all looked like it felt so good and was truly beautiful to behold. I watched @janieclaire spin and leap and waltz all over the stage, eating up all the space.
When I got the chance to dance the corps of Serenade, I relished in every moment. I loved feeling the beating heart of the piece and being on stage with all the amazing dancers I looked up to so much. Fast forward a number of years and I got the chance to learn and perform the Dark Angel under careful supervision from the most amazing coaches and mentors. Dancing alongside friends I so admire and also dancing with my now husband made this moment extra special.
Last year, I danced the waltz girl for the first time. My throat swelled up when I ran in as though late. I couldn’t believe I was there, doing the role that made me fall madly in love with Balanchine and New York City Ballet. I kept telling myself, don’t cry don’t cry don’t cry, this show was filmed for PBS and I didn’t know if they were doing a close up. Having that film will always be special, my first time the role I had seen years before.
I’m so grateful my life has lead me to this place, getting to work with so many coaches, mentors and ballerinas on this beautiful ballet- getting to stand in the spot that I watched all those years ago- and hopefully allowing another young, hopeful, 13 year old to fall in love with it just like I did. | Posted on 11/Jun/2024 04:01:33
