“Back in bad old Soviet times, the Kirov Ballet and the Moscow Circus seemed to be the only representatives of Russian culture on Western radar screens. But in the 15 years since the Iron Curtain was unhooked from the rigging and stored backstage, dozens of Russian theater companies have traveled around the globe, and much of the globe has rolled its way across Russia’s stages.”
Tag: 04.13.05
Tricia Brown’s Computer Collaboration
“In an innovative fusion of modern dance and high technology, Tricia Brown is collaborating with a computer on “how long does the subject linger on the edge of the volume …,” a 30-minute work for seven dancers and animated graphics. Ms. Brown has choreographed the dance. And the computer, driven by an artist-designed artificial-intelligence software program that responds instantly to the dancers’ movements, draws graphics that are projected on a transparent screen in front of the stage.”
The Walker’s Bold Gamble
The new $70 million Walker Art Center addition takes architectural chances. “Like much modern art, the 130,000-square-foot addition that opens April 17 takes a provocative stand. Designed by Herzog & de Meuron of Basel, Switzerland, its one-story glass-clad wing is topped by a six-story rumpled cube wrapped with squares of perforated metal mesh.”
Royal Opera House Dominates RPS Award Nominations
“London’s Royal Opera House leads the race for this year’s Royal Philharmonic Society Awards with seven nominations. Its performers John Graham-Hall, Ben Heppner and Janice Watson dominate the best singer category. And the prestigious London venue’s music director Antonio Pappano is shortlisted for best conductor.”
Fixing Rome’s Modern Architecture Problem
“Lackluster modern architecture in Rome is so pervasive that even the Italian government is doing its part to spark a revival. The Senate is examining legislation to promote better urban architecture after decades of economic expedience and careless design. The movement’s centerpiece is Maxxi, the first national contemporary art museum. The 60-million-euro project was designed by Ms. Hadid, an Iraqi-born architect who has lived in London since 1972 and is known for her daring designs.”
Rockefeller Gives MoMA Biggest Gift Ever
David Rockefeller has given the Museum of Modern Art $100 million for its endowment. “Mr. Rockefeller said the gift was intended to shore up public programs at the Modern, which just completed an ambitious $858 million expansion that more than doubled its size. Mr. Rockefeller, who is 89, said the museum would receive the money after his death. In the meantime, he said, he would give the Modern $5 million a year as if the money were already invested in the endowment.”