At a L.O.S. (of Words) at the Vilar Center

This is written by LeeAnn Marshall, a local who won tickets to Leftover Salmon via Facebook on the Vilar Performing Arts Center (VPAC) fan page. Be sure to check back on all of our Facebook pages for more upcoming promotions!

Winning two tickets to the Leftover Salmon show at the Vilar Performing Arts Center last night turned a typical workday into a fantastic, incredibly fun evening! It pays to "like" Vail Free Concerts and the Vilar Performing Arts Center! I won these tickets by posting a response when queried "tell us your best left-over recipe". My answer was a little tongue-in-cheek, and the judges seemed to approve. (You can see it here)


Upon arriving at the Vilar Center, we were greeted by numerous volunteers, and made our way to the Box Office to get our tickets at Will Call. Upon giving my name, and bragging about my great accomplishment of winning the tickets, one employee knew who I was and whispered something to the person giving us the tickets. When we looked at the tickets he gave us, the word Box stood out...yes, we were shown to box seats at the side of the theater, with a commanding view of not only the stage, but of the incredibly diverse crowd streaming in. Of course there were the L.O.S. fans, in beanies and flannel, hurrying down to the front area, where they could stand and dance to their hearts' content. But the surprising thing was the rest of the audience. It was comprised of families with children, couples like us, as well as older folks, dressed for dates, or après ski. Just observing the crowd was entertaining!


Right on time, Leftover Salmon took the stage. Almost the entire audience was immediately on their feet. This was not to be a seated show! Their music is hard to pigeon-hole. One minute you're clapping your hands to a bluegrass (or slamgrass, as they called it!) tune, the next you're dancing in your seat to a country-style waltz, a smoky blues tune, or an upbeat Zydeco song! This is what gives L.O.S. their wide appeal. While in the box, the Executive Director came cruising through the crowd. I spoke a few words to him, then asked if he knew how to dance. Well, he did more than answer with words, he took my hand and we did a little East Coast Swing, right there!

This venue was amazing. I've seen hundreds of shows in my life, and have nearly lost my hearing at some of them. The Vilar Center's acoustics were magnificent. We were able to enjoy every word and note, without our ears bleeding. The sight lines from every seat were terrific. I never saw anyone straining to get a look at the band. Of course, from our vantage point, we had a totally unobstructed view of everything and everyone!
After a long first set, nearly two hours, the band took a break. As both my date and I had to work the next day, we decided to head home, even though we heard their next set would be another full two hours! Talk about getting your money's worth for a ticket! As we walked outside, we passed the band's tour bus. All of a sudden, I was chatting with the lead singer, Drew Emmitt, walking next to me. We gave him our compliments and hurried through the snow to our car.

As I drove home, I was still humming the songs. Thanks to the folks at VVF, I had a memorable and exciting evening.
- LeeAnn

You can view photos from the concert here:

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Much to Look Forward to

The 2011 Vail International Dance Festival opens with New York City Ballet Moves' three unique programs—Opening Night, 21st Century Moves, and UpClose: The Male Dancer by Balanchine.

The launch of New York City Ballet's new touring troupe Moves ushers in new era of traveling for the legendary company, and I'm excited to see its extraordinary roster of dancers: principal dancers Jared Angle, Joaquin De Luz, Robert Fairchild, Sterling Hyltin, Tiler Peck, Amar Ramasar, Daniel Ulbricht and Wendy Whelan; soloists Adrian Danchig-Waring, Erica Pereira and Rebecca Krohn; and corps de ballet members Chase Finlay, Anthony Huxley, Lauren Lovette, Brittany Pollack and Taylor Stanley.

Tiler Peck returns to Vail with New York City Ballet Moves. She will also be featured in Dance for $20.11 and Dance TV. Years ago, I watched her take class at The School of American Ballet—I remember students from all levels of the school crowding near the studio’s doorway to get a glimpse of the charming, diminutive prodigy. Since then, Ms. Peck has quickly become one of the world’s most stunning performers, and over the past few summers, I have had the privilege of seeing her rehearse and perform at the Vail International Dance Festival. Her effortless technical brilliance, gorgeous phrasing, and natural theatrical quality combine to make each of her performances a transcendent experience. Here is footage of Tiler rehearsing with Damian Woetzel and Joaquin De Luz at last year’s festival.

The ever beautiful Wendy Whelan returns to Vail with New York City Ballet Moves and will be a featured artist in International Evenings of Dance I and International Evenings of Dance II. She alone is reason to attend these performances. Here is Wendy Whelan and Craig Hall captured in a breathtaking performance of Christopher Wheeldon's masterpiece After the Rain, which will be performed again this year in 21st Century Moves. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Joaquin De Luz returns to Vail with New York City Ballet Moves and will also appear in Dance for $20.11.  Last year, he gave captivating performances in pieces by Jerome Robbins and Larry Keigwin. Here he performs Jerome Robbins' A Suite of Chopin Dances at the 2010 VIDF. Photo by Erin Baiano.

The high-flying Daniel Ulbricht of New York City Ballet returns to Vail with New York City Ballet Moves. Here he performs Le Corsaire with Misa Kuranaga of Boston Ballet at the 2009 VIDF. 

Adrian Danchig-Waring returns to Vail with New York City Ballet Moves. Here he performs Christopher Wheeldon’s Mercurial Manoeuvres with Tiler Peck at the 2009 VIDF. Photo by Erin Baiano.

New York City Ballet Moves also gives us new dancers to look forward to, such as principal dancer Sterling Hyltin. The New York Times writes, "The larklike effusion of Ms. Hyltin’s dancing — so carefree, so heart-catching — combines impulsiveness and polish in marvelous ways." Here she is with Robert Fairchild in a recent performance of Duo Concertant at Lincoln Center. Choreography by George Balanchine (c) The George Balanchine Trust. Photo by Andrea Mohin/The New York Times.

Based on glowing reviews like this one of corps de ballet member Chase Finlay, we can look forward to memorable performances from all ranks of the troupe: "Mr. Finlay — who at Saturday’s matinee was yet more assured — is an outstanding hope for many leading roles: tall, with a long neck and handsome carriage; an attentive and capable partner; and a skilled dancer of beautifully stretched lines and gleaming precision" (The New York Times). Here is a recent portrait of New York City Ballet Moves' dancers Chase Finlay with Robert Fairchild by Bruce Weber for Vanity Fair.

Each of Moves’ performances will be unique (read: you want to see them all). Opening Night with New York City Ballet Moves features George Balanchine’s Duo Concertant, Jerome Robbins’ Dances at a Gathering, and Peter Martins’ A Fool for You set to the irresistible music of Ray Charles.  21^st Century Moves with New York City Ballet Moves features recent masterworks: Christopher Wheeldon’s After the Rain and Polyphonia and Peter Martins’ Hallelujah Junction. There is no better place to see After the Rain performed than outdoors, against a fading silhouette of the Rockies, and I’ve never seen Hallelujah Junction, but have always loved John Adams’ score.

I am also excited for this year's two UpClose performances. The first—UpClose: The Male Dancer by Balanchine—will be hosted by Festival Artistic Director Damian Woetzel, New York City Ballet Ballet Master in Chief Peter Martins, and dancers of New York City Ballet Moves. The second—UpClose: Premieres—will present world premieres choreographed specially for Vail by five of today's most talented and promising choreographers: Christopher Wheeldon, Trey McIntyre, Emery LeCrone, Charles "Lil Buck" Riley, and Richard Siegal. The UpClose performances deepen the audience's appreciation of ballet via thoughtful conversation and carefully selected excerpts that perfectly illustrate the discussion points. Damian Woetzel and his guests expertly highlight the most exquisite movements, allowing the audience to witness beauty in moments we might otherwise miss.

Here is a photo from a past UpClose performance of Damian Woetzel in conversation with Artistic Director of Miami City Ballet Edward Villella. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Here is a photo from a past UpClose performance of choreographer Christopher Wheeldon speaking about a new work he created in Vail. Wheeldon highlights how gracefully Wendy Whelan’s hand falls to the floor, making the simplest movement exquisite. Photo by Erin Baiano.

Two other exemplary companies will perform in Vail this summer—the Mark Morris Dance Group and the Trey McIntyre Project. Mark Morris' choreography is highly musical and witty. Here’s a clip of the Mark Morris Dance Company. I cannot wait to see what they have in store for their special 30^th Anniversary Celebration performance.

The Trey McIntyre Project will also perform at the 2011 VIDF. Trey McIntyre is one of today's most popular contemporary ballet choreographers, and he will present a world premiere at UpClose: Premieres. Here's a peek at his company.

I am particularly looking forward to seeing Mr. McIntyre's Arrantza, which has received critical acclaim.

Finally, the International Evenings of Dance I and International Evenings of Dance II once again bring together some of the world's greatest dancers for two distinct evenings of technical brilliance, virtuosity, and heartbreaking artistry. International Evenings dancers include Tyler Angle and Craig Hall of New York City Ballet, Thiago Bordin and Hélène Bouchet of the Hamburg Ballet, Misty Copeland of American Ballet Theatre, Misa Kuranaga of Boston Ballet, Argentine tango dancers Gabriel Missé and Natalia Hills, Fang-Yi Sheu of Fang-Yi Sheu & Artists Dance Company, Sokvannara Sar of the Suzanne Farrell Ballet, international artist Asha Thomas, freelance artist Matthew Prescott, and Wendy Whelan of New York City Ballet. Herman Cornejo of American Ballet Theatre returns to thrill us with scintillating jumps and expansive movement quality. Here is a clip of him performing "Giselle."

The breathtaking Gillian Murphy of American Ballet Theatre will perform in the International Evenings of Dance. Here is a clip of Ms. Murphy performing the "Black Swan Pas de Deux" at the 2009 VIDF.

The gorgeous Carla Körbes of Pacific Northwest Ballet will perform in the International Evenings of Dance. Here is a clip of her performing the "White Swan Pas de Deux" with Robert Fairchild at the 2010 VIDF.

I could go on and on about all the wonderful artists coming to Vail this summer, but better to see them all yourself—tickets for the 2011 Vail International Dance Festival go on sale Monday, February 21, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. MST. www.vaildance.org

—Caitlin

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Take A Chance at the VPAC

It's always nice to have something surpass your personal expectations. Although, I will admit that at times it can be tough to simply take a chance on a whim.

I'm fortunate to work for the Vail Valley Foundation and Vilar Performing Arts Center for many reasons. One of my favorite perks includes tickets for myself to Vilar Performing Arts Center performances (and of course, an 8 inch rule).

Through said perk I take a lot of chances and try to always expand my personal horizons through various forms of the performing arts. The VPAC is an amazing and intimate 530 seat theater in the heart of Beaver Creek and it's beauty alone is worth a trip.

Last year I took one of many chances and saw the Punch Brothers Featuring Chris Thile. I was familiar with Chris Thile from his days with a band I really liked called Nickel Creek. However, I did not have much knowledge at the time of his new endeavour with the Punch Brothers. The minute the first note hit my ears I was hooked. It was an amazing show, full of amazing musical talents. When the Punch Brothers returned this year, on February 13, I was obviously excited for the opportunity to see them again as a fan. Enjoy the photos below from their recent performance at the VPAC courtesy of VPAC House Photographer Zach Mahone.

The Punch Brothers on the 13th got me thinking about how it has been a little while since I took a chance. Since I made an evening out of experiencing something for which I had no preconceived expectation.

That being said I wanted to convey a couple opportunities for you, like me, to perhaps take a chance at the VPAC. Some of these bands might be in your iTunes library and close to your heart. Others, you may have no knowledge of. Regardless, the VPAC is an awe-inspiring setting to see a show, or, better yet take a chance.

Maceo Parker - Friday, February 18 7:30pm
Dailey & Vincent - Wednesday, February 23 7:30pm
Elephant Revival - Sunday, March 13 7:30pm
Christian McBride & Inside Straight - Wednesday, March 24 7:30pm
Infamous Stringdusters - Tuesday, March 29 7:30pm

- Paul

THE PUNCH BROTHERS AT THE VPAC 2.13.11:Photos (C) 2011 Zach Mahone

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Why I Heart The Teva Mountain Games

Why I Heart the Teva Mountain Games

For many Vail Valley locals like myself the Teva Mountain Games signify much more than just another local event. They are a lifestyle.

There are few things each year I look forward to as much as the Teva Mountain Games. Perhaps the excitement can not all be attributed to the Games themselves, instead, I'd chalk most if it up to the changing of the seasons and the emergence of summer. Since the Teva Mountain Games inception, 10 years ago, I don't think many locals would argue with me at this point that they officially kick off the summer.

The age-old locals mantra rings true here. Many people come for the winters but they stay for the summers. I couldn't agree more and as I type peering out my office window into the sunshine I feel a familiar conflict. What to do this weekend? The Teva Mountain Games are right around the corner and I haven't been in my kayak since November. But, at the same time, a winter storm warning bears down on the Vail Valley with promise of powder. Tis the season for such internal strife and struggle, at least until the lifts on Vail and Beaver Creek stop spinning.

Registration for the 2011 Teva Mountain Games, scheduled for June 2-5 officially opened yesterday. Before all is said and done nearly 3,000 athletes and 40,000 spectators will embark upon Vail Village for what has become the nation's largest celebration of adventure sports, art, music and mountain lifestyle.

We do a lot of great events here at the Vail Valley Foundation and all of them, for their own unique reasons are fantastic. However, none of them amaze me each year like the Teva Mountain Games. This event physically transforms the entire Town of Vail and there is never a shortage of amazing moments, stories or personalities on hand to enjoy. Each year I wonder what the dog to human ratio is at the Games, or, how many people are camping on top of the Vail Parking Structures in RV's. Things you simply don't find yourself wondering during peak ski season.
I hope to see you at the 2011 Teva Mountain Games June 2-5. I'll be there and aside from all the work and preparation remaining for us here at the Vail Valley Foundation it couldn't come soon enough.

- Paul



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Maceo Parker Fan Fare

By Maceo Parker fan Gabrie Higbie.

Gabrie Higbie resides in Homestead and is a mother of two boys. Friday’s concert at the Vilar Center will mark the fifth time that Gabrie has seen Maceo Parker perform live.

During a time in my life when everyone around me was following bands like the Grateful Dead or Phish, I found myself going in a different direction. I followed the funk. With George Clinton and the P-Funk Allstars still on tour and Maceo Parker traveling up and down the coast, I was able to get my fill of booty shaking, soul satisfying and downright funk-filled music.

In the Church of Funk, Maceo Parker is up there pretty close to the GODfather- James Brown. As a member of the JB’s- James Brown’s back-up band- Maceo cut his teeth with the best. If you have never taken the time to sit down (well, that is virtually impossible) and listen to the music of the JB’s than do so now. You will never regret it! Maceo became the “king-pin” so to speak in this band and became known by his horn, “Maceo blow that horn” is a phrase that originally came from James Brown. It is now sampled and said in many-a song today. A quote from his own website, ”Everyone knows by now that he's played with each and every leader of funk, his start with James Brown, which Maceo describes as "like being at University "; jumping aboard the Mothership with George Clinton; stretching out with Bootsy's Rubber Band. He’s the living, breathing pulse which connects the history of Funk in one golden thread. The cipher which unravels dance music down to its core.”

From De La Soul to the Black Eyed Peas, the samples are strong. Maceo Parker has kept himself current in his music with collaborations with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, James Taylor, Dave Matthews Band and Ani DiFranco, to name a few. His participation elevates these musicians to a different level. Maceo’s stamp of funk means a lot.

To have an artist like Maceo Parker come to the Vilar Performing Arts Center is a gift. A gift for the mind, body and soul. No matter what your day has been like, you will leave the show in a much better mood. I will warn you though, don’t expect to go to a Maceo Parker show and sit still. Be prepared to dance. And if you are not prone to getting out of your seat- at least be prepared for your booty to shake in your seat. You will be spending time with a legend. A funk music titan who plays the saxophone with a soulful style unlike any other.

His discography is impressive, and has spanned generations. As a girl who loves to dance, I have shared the spirit of the funk with my kids. We have dance parties with the JB’s, The Mothership and while we are “Passin’ the Peas” we are “Shakin’ Everything We’ve Got!”

Maceo Parker plays at the VPAC this Friday, February 18. Tickets are available online, by phone, or in person at the NEW Marketplace Box Office in Vail Village, across from the Solaris. 

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Become a part of the Vail Valley Foundation Team!

We are now accepting applications from qualified candidates for the following positions:

Director of Development - 2015 World Alpine Ski Championships
Donations & Database Coordinator

Interested parties should CLICK HERE for more information.

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Meet 2011 VIDF Artist-In-Residence Charles “Lil Buck” Riley

The formidable Charles "Lil Buck" Riley will choreograph and perform the street dance style known as Jookin at the 2011 Vail International Dance Festival. Jookin originated in Memphis, Tennessee during the 80s as a form of self-expression that is a response to the harsh realities of inner city life. The dancers who perform it—Jookers—know it to be “a lifestyle within itself” that steers youth away from street violence by giving them confidence and respect. Jookin is most commonly found in the urban areas of Memphis, but has gained popularity around the world due to video streaming websites like YouTube and video recordings such as “Memphis Jookin Vol. 1," which features Lil Buck and other top Jookers.


My first exposure to Lil Buck was through a YouTube link I received from VIDF Artistic Director Damian Woetzel. I was instantly taken by Lil Buck's stunning footwork and musicality. He moved in a way that I had never seen before, yet with the same clarity, phrasing, and dynamics that characterizes all great dance. 

There have been many interpretations of “The Dying Swan,” but few are as refreshing and smooth as Lil Buck’s. His movements string together so seamlessly that you believe he’s floating on water. Even more striking is the fact that Lil Buck heard Saint-Saëns’ music for the first time only minutes before improvising this entire solo. I can only imagine what moving choreography he will conjure against the inspiring backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.

In this next clip, Lil Buck glides through a glorious combination of ripples, turns, steps, and balances to embody the music of Janelle Monae. His choreography draws attention to the feet, which slide, twist, and step with incredible sophistication and control. With musically intelligent performances like this, it’s no wonder renowned choreographer William Forsythe proudly claims, “I’ve been a devotee of ‘Lil Buck’ ever since I set eyes on that little genius.”

Lil Buck has also made numerous television appearances, including performances on “Dancing with the Stars” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show." This year, the Vail International Dance Festival celebrates the success of dance on TV with the one night only performance Dance TV. Lil Buck will be featured alongside “America’s Best Dance Crew” champions Super Cr3w and “Dancing with the Stars” special guest Tiler Peck of New York City Ballet, among others. Check out this video of Lil Buck killing it on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.”

I cannot wait to see what Lil Buck has in store for the 2011 Vail International Dance Festival as the 2011 Artist-In-Residence. In addition to Dance TV, he will perform in Dance for $20.11 and UpClose: Premieres, for which he will create a world premiere. The Vail International Dance Festival runs July 31-August 13, 2011, and a complete schedule of events can be found on the website. Tickets go on sale Monday, February 21, 2011. Be sure to get your tickets to see the “little genius!”

—Caitie

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#1 Billboard Chart Artist Amos Lee Captivates VPAC Audience

I first heard Amos Lee's soulful voice over my Pandora station in college, when his song "Supply and Demand" took over radios by demand and he was selected as our spring music festival's headliner. Ever since, he's been in my top five. His slow, steady vocals accompanied by delicate guitar resonates in a way most other artists can't. This man knows, feels and embodies music.

So naturally, when I found out Amos Lee was part of the VPAC's winter lineup, I was ecstatic. Having never seen him live, I knew I was in for a treat. Sure enough, he met my expectations and beyond, despite a cold that disabled him from hitting the higher notes in some of his songs. Standing in the front row in a still, quiet audience, Amos' first lines of "Night Train" sent chills up my spine. That man has some pipes, let me tell you. Lee played some old favorites as well as tracks from his new album, "Mission Bell," which is currently number one in the Billboard 200 chart. He also shared stories from his travels, including a heart-felt dedication to a chronically ill child who recently passed away and further inspired his music.

The best part of the night? Vusi Mahlasela, opener for Amos, joining him on stage for the final number. I didn't know who Vusi was before this performance, but quickly learned of his passion and enthusiasm for Africa and love for connecting people through music. Together, it was a beautiful and powerful moment as they sang "Jesus" off of Amos' new album.

If you had the opportunity to be there, I hope you found it as incredible as I did!
- Melissa

View more photos here:

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Lineup Sure to Excite for 2011 Vail International Dance Festival

Joaquin De Luz and Tiler Peck of New York City Ballet photo (c) Paul Kolnik

With tickets on sale in a few short weeks (February 21), the 2011 Vail International Dance Festival is heating up! We are excited to bring new performances and old favorites alike to light up the stage this summer. A hot spot of the festival includes the worldwide debut of New York City Ballet Moves, and other highlights include the Mark Morris Dance Group, Trey McIntyre Project, a world premiere by Christopher Wheeldon, and the 2011 artist-in-residence, Charles "Lil' Buck" Riley (Memphis jookin', anyone?)

2011 Vail International Dance Festival Schedule:

Opening Night
New York City Ballet Moves
Sunday, July 31, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

21st Century Moves
New York City Ballet Moves
Monday, August 1, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

UpClose: The Male Dancer - by Balanchine
New York City Ballet Moves
Tuesday, August 2, 2011 7:30pm
Vilar Performing Arts Center, Beaver Creek

Mark Morris Dance Group
30th Anniversary Celebration
Wednesday, August 3 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

International Evenings of Dance
Friday, August 5, 2011 7:30pm
Saturday, August 6, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

Ballroom Spectacular
Sunday, August 7, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

UpClose: Premieres
Monday, August 8, 2011 7:30pm
Vilar Performing Arts Center, Beaver Creek

Dance for $20.11
Tuesday, August 9, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

Trey McIntyre Project
Friday, August 12, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail

Dance TV
Saturday, August 13, 2011 7:30pm
Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater, Vail


The VIDF Facebook page and Twitter feed will serve as great references in the upcoming months, as we'll be posting information and stories about the visiting artists this summer. A complete schedule, including community events, is available on the VIDF website.

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