Author Archives: Ashley Rivers

About Ashley Rivers

Ashley Rivers is a freelance writer and dancer in Boston. She is currently a Calderwood Fellow in writing at Emerson College.

Competition Confidence

Posted on Aug 10, 2012 by .
Joey Dowling at NYCDA in 1995

Competition dancers work hard to polish their routines. But when they’re finally backstage on the big day, even the veterans … Continue reading →

Posted in Competition, How To

Choreographer’s Collage: Liz Imperio

Posted on Aug 10, 2012 by .
Liz Imperio. by Ed Flores Photography

Liz Imperio’s choreography is electric. True to her Latin dance roots, her work exudes smooth sensuality and rhythmic vitality. The … Continue reading →

Posted in Choreography, How To

My Favorite Performance

Posted on Jun 29, 2012 by .
(L to R) Jennifer Di Noia, Afra Hines, Nathan Peck

Wendy Whelan Principal Dancer, New York City Ballet “One of my most memorable performances took place at the Palais Garnier … Continue reading →

Posted in New Stories We Love

My First Summer Intensive

Posted on Jun 29, 2012 by .
Raechel Sparreo (second from left) and friends outside the Miami City Ballet studios during the school's 2010 summer intensive

You’re about to head to your first summer intensive. Congrats! You’re on your way to a life-changing experience. But right … Continue reading →

Posted in Ballet, How To

Who’s Who on the Comp Scene

Posted on Apr 18, 2012 by .
Emma Bradley (PROPIX)

KALI GRINDER Age: 18 Studio: The Dance Zone in Henderson, NV In a sea of contemporary soloists, playful musicality and … Continue reading →

Posted in New Stories We Love, You Should Know

Showbiz Superstitions

Posted on Mar 13, 2012 by .
A scene from Broadway’s Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark. Before the show opened, the cast and crew took special, otherworldly precautions to ensure a safe, positive show. (Joan Marcus)

It’s opening night of your big musical. You’re warmed up, dressed and feeling confident—until your best friend visits you backstage. … Continue reading →

Posted in Musical Theater, New Stories We Love