The 2007-2008 Delta International Series
By Kristi Casey Sanders
Every year, some of the world’s most talented artists in ballet, opera, music and acrobatic dance troupes alight in Atlanta for one night engagements during The Delta International Series, currently in its 18th season. Produced by The Fox Theatre, with help from sponsors Delta Airlines and Lexus, the series gives Atlantans a privileged, and diverse, glimpse of world-class talent.
“Many, many years ago, Atlanta really expressed, as a community, an interest in being known as an international city,” says Allan Vella, general manager of the Fox. “This [is] the Fox’s effort to contribute to that and give great, international artists the chance to play Atlanta.”
Prior to every show, the Fox offers educational opportunities for audience enrichment. Before last month’s Tango Buenos Aires performance, dancers in the Fox’s Spanish Room gave demonstrations and dance lessons. Before the Georgian State Dance Company, Russian musicians will play and interact with the audience. With opera programs, a local opera specialist teaches audiences about the art form.
Season tickets holders receive many benefits in addition to 30 percent off the regular cost of admission, including free parking, Delta Skymiles and some complimentary Fox merchandise. Individual tickets also are available. For more information, visit foxtheatre.org or call 404-881-2008.
Here’s a rundown of the 2007-2008 Delta International Series season:
Georgian State Dance Company (Nov. 19) More than 60 Russian dancers execute folk dances with military precision and acrobatic skill. “There’s a real Cirque feel to it,” says Kristen Delaney, the Fox’s director of marketing and public relations.
Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the Band of the Coldstream Guards (March 10) The Dragoon Guards are Scotland’s only Regiment of Cavalry, and the 200-year-old British Band of the Coldstream Guards is one of the oldest military bands in the world; both are famous for the sounds of their pipes and drums. Former school band member Vella says this is one of the shows he’s looking forward to most.
The Merry Widow (March 23) The Czech Opera Prague performs this comic opera in German with English super titles. Vella says, “It’s about a rich widow trying to find a husband, so it’s really comedic and charming.”
Carmen (April 28) The St. Petersburg Ballet brings the tragic tale of a femme fatale to the Fox with a full orchestra. “The story involves love, jealousy and tragedy,” Vella says. “It’s about a Spanish gypsy, a manipulative woman who leads men astray with her beauty.”
The Georgian State Dance Company plays The Fabulous Fox Theatre on Nov. 19.
