Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet (DNCB), in Dallas, Texas, is a 501c43 non-profit, and was founded in 2011, under the direction of Emilie A. Skinner and Victoria Tran. We interviewed Emilie Skinner, the Artistic Director, for this article.
DNCB seeks to collaborate with Dallas-based artists and musicians in similar manner to the creative artistic cooperation that occurred in early 20th-century Paris with the Ballets Russes. DNCB not only offers the opportunity for these artists to show their work through their music, set and costume designs, but it also presents the chance to create an entire ballet as a work of art.
DNCB is made up of approximately 20 adult company members who all have extensive training in classical ballet.
Emilie believes that their performance company is set apart from others because DNCB truly believes in and thrives on collaborative efforts. No matter how little or grand the involvement of an artist, DNCB believes they can bring something fresh and innovative to the ballet. These collaborations strengthen the arts community and help bring dance to an audience who might not typically attend a ballet performance.
According to Emile, “Every time I see our dancers set foot on the stage, I beam with pride! We are so grateful to have them as part of our vision and journey.”
The most successful dancers, in Emile’s opinion, exude confidence and strength. The worst thing a dancer can do to him/herself is to let any sort of fear or self-consciousness take over in class or on stage. They have to believe in themselves and their abilities in order to make the audience believe in them.
DNCB hopes to continue growing as a company and to gain the attention of the Dallas/Fort Worth community. They’ve come a long way in just three years and they look forward to continuing the steady momentum.
Emilie has always participated in both the visual and performing arts and though she was performing herself, she felt she was lacking that certain creative outlet that having a company fills. She had encouragement and support from family and friends and decided to just go “for it.” Emilie believes it is always difficult starting something new and though running a company can feel overwhelming at times, she is so grateful to have DNCB and to be able to create these performances for the dancers and the community!
This June they are restaging Le Train Bleu for a performance at the Dallas Museum of Art. Considering the fact that they work closely with visual artists on many projects, they try to hold performances in galleries and museums each season. They are thrilled to have this partnership with the DMA!
DNCB reaches out to the community by working with the Dallas International School, which offers private, accredited education for students from preschool through high school in English and French working towards furthering the school’s /goal to enrich the students with a cultural environment.
Emilie believes that DNCB is alive today thanks to its supporters. She asks you to please consider donating today to help ensure future performance opportunities for Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet. They also have a calendar for sale as a fundraiser. The Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet 2015 Calendar is inspired by the vintage paintings of Alberto Vargas. This full-size calendar will brighten up any home or office. Each month will feature one their DNCB dancers. Stay tuned to Facebook for “sneak peeks” of what is inside.
Please post a comment if you have had any experience with Dallas Neo-Classical Ballet or Emilie Skinner.
To keep up-to-date with their performance calendar or just to learn more about DNCB, follow them on Facebook or visit their website at www.dallasneo-classicalballet.com!
