My First Time Watching Christopher Wheeldon's "After the Rain"

I have a confession. I've never watched a live dance performance in my life, excluding the Nutcracker when I was five.

But last night at the Vail International Dance Festival, standing behind the crowds at the Ford Amphitheater, tears filled my eyes as I watched two supreme dancers move in unison across the stage during "After the Rain," a piece choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon - part of New York City Ballet MOVES 21st Century Moves.

It was as if Wendy Whelan, principal ballerina of the New York City Ballet, was born without bones and meant to bend with uninhibited fluidity as she fell in slow motion to the arms of Craig Hall. And surrounded by the cool, mountain air and backdrop of the Gore Range, I knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

If you're like me and dance is completely foreign to you, I encourage you to come out to the Amphitheater this week or next and experience it for yourselves. You can purchase lawn tickets and bring a picnic for a lower price, or sit in the seats for the best view in the house. I always think the best things in life are unexpected and you can't fully appreciate something until you try it.

Tickets are still available for tomorrow night's performance of Mark Morris Dance Group - Mark Morris is hailed as one of the "greatest living choreographers" by The New Yorker. Step out of your comfort zone and come join me!

-Melissa

Video of "After the Rain" performed by Wendy Whelan and Craig Hall:

Posted in: After The Rain,new york city ballet moves,Vail International Dance Festival,Vail Valley Foundation,Wendy Whelan