REVIEWS
"This 'Carmen' could serve his company splendidly at home and on tour for years to come. It offers roles that display and develop artistry and enough choreographic originality to interest dancers and audiences alike. Plus of course, a classic story that gets deeper with every retelling."
Lewis Segal, Los Angeles Times, August 17, 2007
“There is little doubt that the fine looking Santa Barbara-based State Street Ballet, under Rodney Gustafson’s artistic direction, is thriving.”
Los Angeles Times
“There are many ways to judge the success of an arts organization… State Street Ballet can boast impressive marks from almost every perspective.”
Tom Jacobs, Santa Barbara News-Press
“State Street Ballet is proving that ballet is alive and kicking in Southern California.”
Victoria Loosleaf, Los Angeles Times
“Blending classical ballet with highly original choreography and contemporary themes is the company’s artistic hallmark.”
Rose Eichenbaum, Pointe Magazine, New York City
"'Carmen' a Fiery Fandango... State Street Ballet brought great heart to this classic as it enters its 14th season."
Justine Sutton, Santa Barbara News-Press, October 23, 2007
"State Street Ballet's premiere of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" delighted children and adults alike... with drama, humor and beautiful dancing."
Justine Sutton, Santa Barbara News-Press, April 3, 2007
“Gustafson’s Cinderella opened the State Street Ballet’s 11th season with the equivalent of the unfurling of a red carpet – smooth, luxurious and a joy to embark upon. Cinderella has set the stage for another 10 years of thrilling dance from State Street Ballet.”
Felicia M. Tomasko, Santa Barbara Independent
“State Street Ballet’s new Cinderella soars into glory… deluxe throughout… masterfully choreographed… will undoubtedly be danced time and again over the years.”
Margo Kline, Los Angeles
“State Street Ballet remains not only a classical company, but also a classy one, freely combining traditional danced forms with modern music, costumes, mood and energy.”
Santa Barbara Independent
“Clearly, State Street Ballet is a young company on the move with an enviable repertory that makes the most of its dancers.”
CriticalDance.com
“Hilarious and surprisingly touching, State Street Ballet’s Taming of the Shrew is a worthy addition to the fine tradition of Shakespearean ballets… sends the audience home delighted.”
Michael Smith, Santa Barbara News Press
“State Street Ballet’s fast-paced rendition of the Bard’s timeless love story blends classic line with modern flair and a satisfying dose of sexiness… between Artistic Director Rodney Gustafson’s adroit choreography and the company’s professional execution, Romeo & Juliet is among the strongest performances we’ve seen from State Street Ballet… Bravo!”
Elizabeth Schwyzer, The Santa Barbara Independent
“According to tradition, a 10th Anniversary should be celebrated with a gift of tin or aluminum. Fortunately, the State Street Ballet ignored tradition and alchemized a golden performance to celebrate their first ten years of existence.”
Maureen Foley, Santa Barbara Independent
“Sheer delight. Enchanting and captivating. The Santa Barbara company has earned a well-deserved reputation for energy, excellence and innovation. The dancers offered lively characterizations, imbuing each principal with his or her own personality. The large crowd, especially the numberous children, seemed both delighted and enthralled.”
Penny E. Schwartz, Redlands Daily Facts
"The State Street Ballet has flung open the curtain on the season's first Nutcracker, ushering in the holiday season with grace, style, and aplomb. Lavish Hollywood-inspired art deco sets created a fitting backdrop for an evening of inspiring dance. Rodney Gustafson adapted the presentation to create a mood that was modern yet retro. The dancers enchanted, in the same way a pile of gifts under a tree creates a sense of magic and promise."
Felicia M. Tomasko, Santa Barbara Independent
"...tight choreography and nearly flawless dancing kept the audience enthralled... [State Breet Ballet's Nutcracker is] a perfect pick-me-up for the holidays."
Santa Barbara Independent
"Waves of "Bravo" and "Brava" flooded over the footlights..."
Santa Barbara News-Press
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