On a Reimagined SPAC New York City Ballet Gala – Saturday, July 20
SARATOGA SPRINGS – It’s very simple, and I quote:
“Give me snowflakes and unicorns, and I am there!”
So said Anna – my colleague and companion on this evening – and in so doing, she basically wrote the lede for this story….
(The hard-bitten photo journalist in me might drive a harder bargain.) Like, “throw in some stilt walkers, and you’ve got a deal….”
OK, then. Shake…
I have learned that Anna is a very discerning fan of the arts, and yet it was her first time experiencing The SPAC Ballet Gala. Just the perennial activities – NYCB’s Grand Finale residency performance; the fireworks; the Soul Session after-party (AKA ‘The Franchise”) – is enough to make you agog!
Truly, remember your first Ballet Gala? Agog… eyes wide, jaw dropping wonder…
{{{All Photos by Anna Jastrzab and Arthur Gonick}}}
It is, however, incredibly refreshing to share with someone the experience of an established, elevated event – and have them look at it with fresh eyes.
Which is the point! (GOTCHYA)
For on this night, Saturday, July 21, 2018, experienced gala goers and newbies alike, joined together in jaw-dropping “agog-ery,” as a result of fresh eyes examining an established event, and then elevatng the entire plane of the proceedings.
Everyone associated with just the effort that was involved in this reimagined event should be swelled with great pride in their contributions.
But the refreshing execution of it all is what made it a 5-star night. Enjoy the gallery.
AGOG GALLERY
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It’s now 5 days later, and i’m STILL agog! See you next year…
Arthur Gonick
July 25. 2018
