Arts Umbrella's Paxton Ricketts hits the Nederlands Dans Theater big-time

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      Ask anyone in the dance world what the hottest company on the planet is right now—or at least its most influential—and chances are they'll tell you Nederlands Dans Theatre in the Hague.

      That's what makes it such a coup that young Vancouver dancer Paxton Ricketts, who's studied at Arts Umbrella for the past six years, has been offered a two-year, full-company contract with its NDT II troupe—the company's hugely popular younger arm.

      It's a huge indication not only of his talent, but of the calibre the Granville Island arts hub is developing these days.

      NDT is a launching pad for some of the world's most exciting dance and choreographic talents—big names, like Ohad Naharin and Nacho Duato.

      You can see what all the fuss is about Thursday through Saturday (May 22 to 24) at the Vancouver Playhouse, when Arts Umbrella Dance Company presents its season finale, with works by the likes of Crystal Pite (who, incidentally, is an associate choreographer with NDT) and James Kudelka. If all goes well, it may be your last chance to catch Ricketts for a very long time.

      Comments

      2 Comments

      Inge Mueller-Langer

      May 23, 2014 at 11:57am

      Not only is Paxton an amazing dancer, he is a wonderful person too. All of us that know about the incredible talent at the AUDC are so happy for him! Last chance to see him perform in Vancouver tonight and tomorrow at the Playhouse.

      Michel Belec

      May 23, 2014 at 12:45pm

      Paxton is a great example of the excellent work that goes on at the Arts Umbrella Dance Company. Congratulations to Paxton and all at AUDC!