Watch Balanchine Lives!

Balanchine Lives! is a 1998 documentary film directed by Merrill Brockway. The film explores the life of George Balanchine, an influential choreographer, and co-founder of the New York City Ballet. The documentary features interviews with those who knew George Balanchine and worked with him, including dancers and choreographers who were part of his company.

The film follows the career of the legendary choreographer and explores his creative process. From his early beginnings in Russia, Balanchine traveled to Europe and the United States, where he became one of the most sought-after choreographers of his time. Through interviews with his collaborators, the film takes the audience through his early works for the Ballets Russes, his collaborations with composer Igor Stravinsky, and his founding of the New York City Ballet.

One of the main focuses of the documentary is Balanchine's relationship with his muse and former dancer, Suzanne Farrell. The film explores their close, but complicated relationship, and how their creative partnership pushed the boundaries of ballet. Farrell herself is interviewed throughout the film and provides insight into the choreographer's process and the challenges they faced in bringing his vision to life.

Other interviews include Barbara Horgan, Balanchine's executive assistant and close friend, who speaks to the choreographer's personal life and creative process. Susan Hendl, a former dancer with the New York City Ballet, and Patricia Neary, a choreographer and ballet master, also provide their perspective on what it was like to work with Balanchine and the lasting impact he had on the dance world.

The film features archival footage of Balanchine's works, including his choreography for the New York City Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker" and his groundbreaking ballet "Agon." The filmmakers utilize interviews with dancers who performed in these works to highlight the impact their creation had on the dance world.

Overall, Balanchine Lives! is both a tribute to Balanchine's legacy and an insight into his creative process. Through interviews with his collaborators and archival footage of his work, the film showcases his contributions to the world of ballet and his lasting impact on dance. The documentary provides a unique and personal perspective on the choreographer's life and work, making it a must-see for anyone interested in dance or the arts.

Balanchine Lives! is a 1998 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 1 minute.