Invitation to the Dance. James Sutton, choreographer and NYU Professor of the Arts offers a lecture/performance on “Everything You Ever Wanted to Know about Dance (and Ballet) but Were Afraid to Ask.” Jim has much to discuss as dance is a universal expression, a vital physical embodiment of human spirit.

Every culture has its own unique dance form, but how and why did the rarefied art of Ballet develop from its ancient roots in the street entertainers of Renaissance Italy, through the French court, and onto stages around the world? How has this elaborate system of body language, a movement science with an art form balanced precariously on top, evolved internationally, and how is it more culturally relevant today than ever.

This is a wonderful introduction to the Dance Weekend, Friday Aug 11 and Saturday, Aug 12.