Fashion
In Tonight’s Historic LGBTQ+ Ballet, Dancer Calvin Royal III Finally Sees Himself Onstage
Ahead of his world premiere in “Touché,” we speak with the American Ballet Theatre dancer….
At just under 30 minutes long, Touché follows the journey of two young men whose worlds crash into each other. Like a butterfly’s metamorphosis, Rudd’s piece spans the stages of a gay man’s journey to self-acceptance—from piercing uncertainty to uncomfortable encounters to peace within own’s skin. I ask Royal if he found a specific moment of the dance the most impactful. “There’s an in-between moment without any dancing. It’s between the first and second movement, [when] my character first discovers that he’s not alone in this, and that there’s this other person who has been on this whole other journey. It’s in this silent and still moment where we’re shedding our layers, the baggage that we once had, and we are standing face to face, not sure what the future holds. But there’s this feeling of hope and what things could be. And that moment, for me, just it says it all.”
Without giving too much of the piece away, there’s a kiss—the first ABT-commissioned kiss between two men. And to treat this production as Hollywood and Broadway might, an intimacy director, Sarah Lozoff, was brought onboard.
“I always requested communication with my artists, but the culture of dance tells us literally to keep our mouths shut. It is an art form in which language is not required, so dancers are trained to not speak,” says Rudd. “[Sarah and I] devised a plan to use intimacy direction to start making cultural shifts in dance, especially when the works are controversial and go deeply into a subject matter that the artists themselves had to deal with in life.”
For Lozoff, intimacy direction is not just about increasing the believability of kissing or simulated sex scene between characters. “It’s also about taking care of artists to make sure that they know they have agency, that their voices matter,” she says.
As Royal tells me, he feels seen and heard and he’s aware of the significance of it all. Of being partnered with another man, he says, I‘ve always hoped for this, [but] I didn‘t think that it would happen so soon.”
It’s happening tonight. Rudd says he’ll be watching it like “a candidate for office watching the numbers come in…I did all I could to make it worthwhile and valid and as meaningful as I could. Now the voters have to vote and the people have to accept it.” As for Royal, he says he’s “excited to see the final product, but I know that the experience alone was so fulfilling for me. Watching the ballet is just the cherry on top.”
Watch Touché tonight on ABT’s YouTube page.
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Mike Amiri’s Fashion Empire, Unveiling the 2024 Net Worth of the Trendsetting Designer
Mike Amiri’s Fashion Empire, Unveiling the 2024 Net Worth of the Trendsetting Designer
Artist Spotlight
Shreyaa Sumi: A Red Carpet Sensation with a Story of Triumph
In the glitzy world of fashion and entertainment, certain personalities shine bright, capturing the hearts of audiences worldwide. One such luminary is Shreyaa Sumi, a multi-talented individual who has left an indelible mark on the global fashion scene. Shreyaa has become a symbol of success, juggling roles as an American model, actress, and a devoted wife and mother. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of this accomplished individual who recently graced the Los Angeles fashion show with her stunning presence.
Red Carpet Glamour at Los Angeles Fashion Show:
Shreyaa Sumi recently stole the spotlight at a Los Angeles fashion show, turning heads with her radiant red look. The Instagram sensation posted a video flaunting her glamorous ensemble – a short and sassy red dress paired with long black shoes and a chic red jacket. The caption, “What time is it? It’s showtime! Thank you for inviting me to your private NY Red Carpet event,” exuded confidence and excitement. The location tag placed her at the heart of the entertainment world – Los Angeles, Hollywood.
Early Life and Modelling Beginnings:
Shreyaa Sumi embarked on her modeling journey in India, where her passion for fashion and media first took root. However, it wasn’t until she moved to the United States with her husband Vijai, that she decided to pursue her dreams on an international scale. From that point forward, there was no looking back for Shreyaa.
Family and Personal Life:
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Shreyaa Sumi is a proud wife to Vijai and a doting mother to her daughter, Sia Vijai. Her ability to balance a thriving career with family life is a testament to her resilience and dedication. In media interviews, Shreyaa has openly shared how her family has been her pillar of support, standing by her throughout her journey to turn dreams into reality.
Awards and Accolades:
Shreyaa Sumi’s success in the fashion industry is underscored by a slew of prestigious awards. In 2022, she clinched the title of Mrs Universe Asia USA, a testament to her excellence on the international stage. Additionally, she has been honored with a doctorate, recognizing her outstanding contributions to the fields of media and fashion. Shreyaa also holds the Asia’s Women of Influence Lifetime Achievement Award, further solidifying her status as an industry trailblazer.
Shreyaa Sumi’s story is one of triumph, resilience, and unwavering determination. From her modest beginnings in Tamilnadu, India, to gracing the red carpet in Hollywood, she has come a long way. As an American model, actress, and a devoted wife and mother, Shreyaa Sumi continues to inspire aspiring individuals in the fashion and entertainment industry. With a string of accolades to her name and a supportive family by her side, Shreyaa is indeed a force to be reckoned with in the world of glamour and fame.
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