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The Women’s Choreography Project (WCP), presented by Avant Chamber Ballet (ACB) for its tenth consecutive year, will showcase new works by female choreographers on March 29-30 at 7:30 p.m. in Kurth Hall at Sammons Center for the Arts.
This year’s event will feature the debut of two original pieces by Dallas-based choreographers Kaylee Skelton and Hailey Von Schlehenried, along with restaged works by Katie Puder, ACB’s artistic director, and Madelaine Boyce.
Puder emphasized the significance of the Women’s Choreography Project within ACB’s identity, stating, “New works, equity in the arts, and live music have been our passions since day one, and I am thrilled to celebrate our tenth year with these two new works.”
Despite progress, ballet remains a predominantly male-dominated field, particularly in leadership roles. Puder noted, “There has been significant discourse about the lack of female leadership and creators in the dance world. While the data has improved, women still represent only 25% of the ballets performed by the top 100 companies in America in 2023.”
The Women’s Choreography Project serves as a proactive response to this issue, providing opportunities for female creators and commissioning a total of 20 new works over the past decade.
Von Schlehenried, a Johannesburg native, described her contribution to this year’s project, titled “Lost in a Dream,” as an exploration of love and its various dimensions. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to choreograph for WCP’s tenth anniversary and the impact it has had on her career.
Skelton, hailing from Littleton, Colorado, shared her excitement for her professional choreographic debut with a full company piece titled “13 Pieces, Op. 76” by Jean Sibelius. She highlighted the collaborative process with her fellow dancers and the joy of creating a piece that celebrates their artistry.
Both choreographers emphasized the personal and artistic growth fostered by programs like WCP, which provide a platform for women to showcase their talents and perspectives in the male-dominated field of ballet.
As the Women’s Choreography Project celebrates its milestone anniversary, Von Schlehenried commended Puder for her dedication to supporting female choreographers and fostering a positive, empowering environment at Avant Chamber Ballet.