Second Before the Ground ... Second Time Around

     This past week The Sacramento Ballet invited Jim Payne back to the studios in order to re-stage Trey McIntyre's contemporary ballet "Second Before the Ground".  I was lucky enough to be apart of this ballet when it made it's premier in Sacramento two years ago - I am reviving my previous role as one of the five men, who almost seem to act as the "Greek Chorus", creating the overall tone throughout the ballet.  I love this ballet, because of the unique choreographic structure and the technical demand it requires from the men of the Sacramento Ballet - comparable to how George Balanchine's "Serenade" (also presented in the same program) showcases the beauty and strength of the women in the company.

    
     The dancers of the Sacramento ballet are very special, because they are not only friends and coworkers, but are also amazing teachers and motivators.  I am very happy to be dancing with fellow company member, Lauren Breen, and although this is her first time learning this ballet she is so wonderful at helping me master some of the more difficult lifts and partnering sections in the 1st and 4th movements. (Lauren and I are also huge Lady Gaga fans and enjoy spending some of our down time talking about how awesome she is!)  All the dancers seem to grow closer while learning a new ballet, especially when the men and women are partnered with others they haven't had the opportunity to work with.

     I am very excited for our upcoming performances and all the great events that The Sacramento Ballet are hosting!  Tell a friend... or two...or more and help spread the word about this amazing company!

-Roberto Cisneros