On Stage: The Charleston Ballet puts focus on W.Va. artists with 'Homegrown'

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WCHS) — The Charleston Ballet finishes up its season by showcasing West Virginia artists with “Homegrown.”

The production features three different pieces utilizing a number of talented dancers bringing to life various parts.

Brigette Madden French is a dancer whom you'll see playing many different characters.

"I’m dancing in a lot of different roles in this production. We are doing several pieces and each one is a little bit different. It brings a little bit of West Virginia with the choreographers, the dancers and the composers to the stage," French said. "Everything’s a little bit different and different roles and characters to play."

“Homegrown’s” program includes “Praise” choreographed by Beckley’s Jerry Rose.

“Red/Blue” featuring the music of Matt Jackfert, will be premiered by Deborah Novak of Huntington. The score of “On the Appalachian Trail” is from the former maestro of the West Virginia Symphony Grant Cooper.

He provides music and title for K.R. Pauley’s ballet.

"What we have put together is a West Virginia choreographers and composers showcase," Novak said. "We have artists from all over the state coming to perform. It feels wonderful. This is like a celebration of the fine arts in West Virginia. We’re hoping people will come and support the Charleston Ballet and also arts in West Virginia."

The Charleston Ballet regularly puts local artists in the spotlight on stage. An entire program of local and long-time residents creates a diverse mixed-bill, promising a cultural slice of wild and wonderful West Virginia and some of the best in dance from a number of Appalachian artists.

Dancer Sheena Madden Jackson will be alongside her sister Brigette during much of the show.

"To me it’s a very special production. It’s a lot of our West Virginia artists who have come together to put this on. It’s West Virginia dancers doing it, all of our company girls. It’s really special to me to have Miss Novak, Miss Pauley and Jerry Rose choreographing it. It’s really special."

The Charleston Ballet presents "Homegrown"
Charleston Coliseum Theater
Friday March 22 and Saturday March 23
7:30 p.m.
Tickets $35 for adults, $30 for students/seniors