AUTHOR

Sebrena Williamson

Sebrena Williamson is a choreographer and writer with a passion for dance research, dance history, and artistic collaboration. She holds a BFA in Dance, a minor in English, and a minor in Appalachian Studies from Radford University. In her work, Williamson has mainly focused on how dance has historically affected and represented cultures at large, and how the artform can now be used to address societal issues and global phenomena. Her choreographic works, research, and dance films have been presented both nationally and internationally. She loves to work in many narrative genres, and has published films, theatre pieces, and poetry.

Member since: Oct 28, 2021Published posts: 12

Articles by Sebrena Williamson

Tamara Geva: A Pioneer in the World of Ballet

Balanchine and His Ballerinas: American Ballet’s 5 Uncredited Matriarchs

Balanchine is remembered as the patriarch of American ballet. In reality, the artform was matriarchal. Balanchine’s wives were the under-credited faces of American ballet.

Scandals, Riots, and Ballet: Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring

The Rite of Spring is a Russian ballet depicting an ancient sacrifice ritual, first presented in France. At the premiere, the Parisian audience rioted; today, the work is celebrated worldwide.

Maria Tallchief: The Superstar of American Ballet

Maria Tallchief, the star of the 20th-century American dance world, was the first Indigenous American ballerina. Brilliant and stunning, Tallchief was the ultimate ambassador of ballet.

George Balanchine: The Father of American Ballet

George Balanchine is known as “The Father of American Ballet,” but the brilliant and chaotic effects of the international superstar are not only felt in America but throughout the world.

The Tumultuous History of the New York City Ballet

8 Groundbreaking Works of Art From the Ballets Russes

Fantastical theater, riotous choreography, and collaborations with artists; the Ballets Russes shattered choreographic and artistic norms.

A Legendary Collaboration of the Arts: The History of the Ballets Russes

Dance as Diplomacy: Cultural Exchange During the Cold War

During the Cold War, art was often a source of tension. Dancers and choreographers, however, performed freely. In a unique cultural exchange, dancers set the stage for Cold War diplomacy.

Dancing Mania and the Black Plague: A Craze That Swept Through Europe

Edgar Degas’ Most Graceful Depictions of the Paris Opera Ballet

Over half of Edgar Degas’ published works are of Paris Opera ballet dancers. Through these paintings, we can survey the otherworldly elegance of the Paris Opera Ballet.

Exploitation in Ballet History: Prostitution at the Paris Opera Ballet

Ballet history is littered with female superstars, but it has historically exploited women and girls, particularly in 19th century Paris.