I read the New York Times article “New York City Ballet Gambles on Unknown Artists” after reading Oliver’s chapter on critiquing dance articles. Much of Oliver’s writing talks about how critics review dance performances, this piece focused primarily on the two newest choreographer’s commissioned by the New York City ballet.

Several of her points such as the necessity for evaluations built on objective analysis regardless of personal preference do still apply to this article. Both choreographers’ previous experience and bodies of work are described without judgement or prejudice. Though they grew up in different countries, their trajectories crossed paths as they both competed for a mentor/protege experience with Alexei Ratmansky. Myles Thatcher beat out Robert Binet for the program and has a larger body of choreography work experience supporting him already. Though they were both hired to create work for the same ballet this differentiation between the artists could invite the possibility that a critic could show preference to Mr. Thatcher. His impartial tone throughout was something Oliver emphasized in her writing.

Another thing Oliver wrote about was the necessity of context. This was a quintessential focus for the article, especially since it is being highlighted that these are not well known choreographers. They are not famous or world renowned so having contextual background focusing on their dance history, previous work, training, and style intent are important so that those who read the article can begin to learn about Thatcher and Binet. Each artist has his own set of paragraphs that reveal his start in dance, where and when he entered the professional world of dance, and some of their personal quotations. Hearing about their respective backgrounds allows readers to be more comfortable and subconsciously more trusting of both artists. Getting to hear their voice- not just a critique of their work gives the audience a good foundation of knowledge for future reference. Now if I were to go to their performances or read a critique of their pieces in the future I have significant context as to their influences and how they got to where they are now.

I really enjoyed the article I read and almost wish that we were going to the New York City ballet as a result of reading this review. Both ballet’s will premiere tomorrow at the City Ballet’s fall gala and I would be interested to see if New York Times will do a follow up review of the artists finished and performed products.

Aliyah Meyer