BESFI 2013

BESFI 2013
Independent and non-profit since 1958
Harbor and Seiskaya Ballet celebrating the Arts together.
Mission:
Harbor Country Day School cherishes childhood, cultivates wonder
and inspires confident learners and leaders.
Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8
17 Three Sisters Road • St. James, New York 11780 • 631.584.5555 (p) • 631.862.7664 (f)
www.hcdsny.org
BALLET EDUCATION AND SCHOLARSHIP FUND, INC.
Benefit Performance
~ ABOUT THIS EVENING ~
Few ballet premieres have elicited as much excitement as did Street
People in 1986. A one-act ballet, Street People weaves a tale of confrontation,
strife, flirtatious encounters and romance based on modern day characters. So
successful was the 1986 debut that the ballet was repeated in 1987 by popular
demand. A back-to-back feat that has never been replicated by any other ballet
in BESFI's 30+ year performance history. The original cast was extraordinary.
Led by Peter Morrison (Policeman, went on to ABT), Alexandra Kastrinos
(Policewoman, went on to Royal Swedish Ballet), Karen Lynch (Librarian,
went on to Pacific Northwest Ballet) and Rachel Ruotolo (Street Urchin, went
on to become a highly respected pediatric plastic surgeon). The poignancy
of the finale led many in the audience to well up. A long standing ovation
ensued. The current production features guest artist Billy Blanken of the
Ajkun Ballet (Policeman) in addition to Seiskaya Ballet principals Alexandra
Palma (Policewoman, Fri.), Anna Craddock (Policewoman, Sat.), Alexandra
Tsivitis (Librarian) and Marianna Spentzos (Street Urchin) around whom the
story unfolds. This year's program includes a total of eight pas de deux, six
performed at each show. Guest artists Boyko Dossev (Boston Ballet), David
Hovhannisyan (Milwaukee Ballet) and J Ryan Carroll (Ajkun Ballet) will share
the partnering duties with Seiskaya Ballet principals, first and featured soloists.
Two delightful Character Dance Miniatures, Siberian and Tarantella, are
nestled between the series of pas de deux and two solo variations.
BESFI PERFORMANCE 2012 ~ IN REVIEW
A Scintillating Evening of Lyrical and Bravura Dancing
"It is a rare event when the reality of a live dance performance lives
up to the ballyhoo leading to the event. The Ballet Education and Scholarship
Fund, Inc.’s (BESFI) 33rd annual gala at the Staller Center exceeded the
most optimistic expectations. Opening with the fiery Flames of Paris Pas de
Deux, Seiskaya principal Nicole DiFiore and guest artist Boyko Dossev of
the Boston Ballet [were] well suited to the intricate footwork and danced the
uplifting score with energy and panache. Dossev’s solo was flawless, and
DiFiore finished the coda with a long flurry of well executed fouettes.
The Bluebird Pas de Deux featured future stars Danielle Lovetro
and Mac Gershfield. Lovetro’s long sinewy lines and marvelous extensions
contributed to a series of dazzling Italian fouettes. Gershfield’s successive
entrechat-six combinations had the audience applauding regularly. Together
the couple was enchanting. Seiskaya principal, Anna Craddock, departed
from the classical genre with a neoclassical rendition of Massenet’s Manon.
A dancer completely in control of every nuance, she performed the solo
variation with fluidity and grace displaying her ample facilities along the
way.
A character ballet selection, Zhok, set on sixteen dancers is folk dance
based and is a dance with verve full of rapidly changing line formations with
brilliant color reflected from the fluttering sequin trimmed costumes.
Through the Glass is a contemporary dance variation executed with
energy and agility by Seiskaya principal Alexandra Palma. Large jumps,
rapid turns and an emotion laden theme are wrapped in this vocal rendition
by Stoned Sour. Drawn from the Victor Hugo novel, the Hunchback of
Notre Dame, the La Esmeralda Pas de Deux matched Seiskaya featured
soloist Alexandra Tsivitis as Esmeralda and guest artist Barry Kerollis of
BalletX as her suitor, Gringoire. With its lusty musical score, the pas depicts
a joyful street scene and is a delightful unbridled romp of bravura dancing.
Well matched physically, the couple in turn displayed technical flashes that
engaged the audience.
Act II opened with what can only be described as a sensational
rendition of the White Swan Pas de Deux with Anna Craddock as the
White Swan opposite Boyko Dossev. The pas was mesmerizing. Craddock
executed each movement with grace and control projecting the vulnerability
and torment of Odette. Dossev, a vaunted interpreter of classical repertoire,
was extraordinary in his partnering guiding his ballerina effortlessly with
great tenderness. At the conclusion of the piece, the only response that was
left to us all, was, WOW!
The great Marius Petipa choreographed numerous ballets, but also
reset several established works such as Satanilla which he staged in St.
Petersberg in 1866. Satanilla, sent to earth by the devil, falls in love with her
new master, Count Fabio, who has made a deal with the devil. She eventually
sacrifices herself in order for his soul to be saved. Mac Gershfield returns
patnered by Marianna Spentzos for the pas. The pair make a strikingly 1
attractive couple with complementary classical lines and an excellent sense
of musicality. Gershfield again regaled the audience with his budding
technical prowess completing a series of gallops with several pirouettes.
Not to be outdone, Spentzos was equally brilliant executing a difficult series
of hops in front attitude showing off her strength en pointe. A whimsical
contemporary dance, Arrival of the Birds, choreographed by former Seiskaya
Ballet principal Alexis Lucena, was set on Nicole DiFiore and featured
soloists Alexandra Tsivitis and Brianne Colon. Synchronized movements
and picturesque arabesques earned the piece a very warm reception from
the audience. Colorful is an understatement when describing the character
dance Persian. Twenty young dancers attired in red, blue, purple and yellow
costumes adorned with spherical tufts of yellow in their hair, cavorted merrily
in front of a full cyclorama backdrop of a Persian city delighting young and
old.
Based on a poem by Byron, the Le Corsaire Pas d’Esclave depicts
the beautiful Gulnare, who has been enslaved, being sold at auction. In a
fetching dance, she entices the pasha to buy her. Chemistry between dance
partners is essential in creating the magic that is ballet. Alexandra Palma and
Barry Kerollis were electric together. Both dancers are secure technicians
with a wonderful sense of timing. Kerollis carried off several lifts seemingly
effortlessly. Palma’s turns were impeccable with nary a miscue. They
seemed to be made for this pas. Each dancer’s variation was a tour de force
with high ballon in leaps and multiple turn combinations. Palma finished the
coda with 32 fouettes sticking the landing as an exclamation point to a great
performance.
Act III was not to be overshadowed by what preceded. Valia
Seiskaya has choreographed nearly twenty ballets, each set to showcase the
dancers upon whom the original was set. Forest, set to a Bizet score, tells
the tale of a careless smoker setting the forest on fire. The ensuing battle
between Fire (Palma) and Water (Craddock) is a bravura display of technical
excellence. The two eclipsed all previous renditions of the ballet with their
taught struggle and masterful control. The plight of the animals in the Forest
brought several noteworthy performances particularly: Alexandra Berti and
Alexandra Tsivitis (Swans), Jade Donnelly (Snake), Sydney Essex (Deer),
Brianne Colon (Butterfly) and Kristina Diaz (Bird). Forest was riveting and
has moved up several notches on the all-time favorites list. A hearty 'Bravo!'
to the dancers and Valia Seiskaya for a wonderful evening."
ABOUT BESFI
The Ballet Education and Scholarship Fund is a not-for-profit orga2 nization incorporated in the State of New York with the primary purpose of
promoting ballet education in Suffolk County. By providing grants and
scholarships and offering workshops to local dancers, BESFI enables young
artists to participate in ballet programs that are not readily available to them
or which are beyond their financial resources. By providing professionally
staged dance performances, BESFI is able to promote the arts by catering to
the need for young artists to perform and the community's desire for quality
entertainment. To everyone's benefit, BESFI has had unparalleled success
in bringing noted guest artists and teachers to Long Island.
This year BESFI owes a great debt to several volunteers who gave
selflessly of their time. In particular, we are proud to recognize Karin Engel,
Pat Adamo, Patty Miller and Linda Pandolfi.
BESFI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Dimitri Papadakos, Chairman
Joann Bleckman-Hertzman • Michael Grundfast
Ted Kastrinos • Regina Marsh
Andrew Nittoli • Valentini D. Papadakos
Susan Tuccillo
BESFI SUMMER PROGRAM
Returning instructors for 2013 include Eileen Houghton, Eleanor
D'Antuono, Marianna Tcherkassky, Mary Carpenter, Rhodie Jorgenson,
Elizabeth McGrath, J. Ryan Carroll, Abraham Miha and Vaso Kikna. Joining
us this season are Alexei Moskalenko and Amy Ruggiero. The 2013 program
will continue the three division format introduced four years ago. In addition
to three divisions, a hybrid fourth category allows Intermediate students "en
pointe" to take an additional class with the Advanced Intermediate group.
The Summer Program will run from July 15th to August 23rd. The 2013
brochure is available on-line at www.besfi.com. For information telephone:
(631) 584-0192.
BESFI SCHOLARSHIPS
BESFI awarded $6,000 in summer program scholarships in 2012,
pushing total cumulative scholarships and stipends past the $240,000 mark.
BESFI’s goal—given the challenging economic times—is to again provide
generous support. As in previous years, a jury of prominent ballet adjudicators will determine the winners of the annual scholarship competition.
The competition date is set for June 2, 2013. Specific check-in times for
advanced and intermediate candidates will be announced in local papers.
For information, contact: BESFI SCHOLARSHIPS, P.O. Box 2146, St.
James, NY 11780, or call (631) 584-0192 or e-mail us at [email protected].
Katie Amella
www.pbase.com/kathleenanna
www.zazzle.com/kamella
[email protected]
Custom designs available upon request.
Nature photography, cards, and prints
HAIRCOLORING AT ITS BEST...
STONY BROOK
GYNECOLOGY & OBSTETRICS
Mark Ian Funt, M.D.
Robert O’Keefe, M.D.
Jeffrey A. Porte, M.D.
Julie Welischar, M.D.
Megan C. Lochner, M.D.
Susan T. Fish, N.P.
Debra L. Morgan, N.P.
Lindsay A. Tito, N.P.
200 Main Street
Suite 2
Setauket, NY 11773
KARIN LYNN
HAIRCOLOR STUDIO
• All phases of haircolor
• Organic haircoloring
• Men’s haircoloring
• Waves & Relaxers
• Cutting and hairstyling
(516) 496-8110
59 Berry Hill Rd.
Syosset
Gift Certificates Available
43 Rte. 111
Smithtown, NY 11787
361-6111
Port Jeff Cleaners
EXPERT TAILORING
Valia Papadakos
$4,000+
29 W. Main St.
Patchogue, NY 11772
475-9799
Craddock Family
Reliance
Mortgage &
Real Estate
4980 NESCONSET HWY
NESCONSET SHOPPING CENTER
PORT JEFFERSON STA., N.Y. 11776
928-2416
$2,000
Adamo Family
$1,000-1,400
Berti Family
Abrams Family
Butkevich Family
Essex Family
Bergold Family
$700-800
Miller Family
Carrero-Sagona Family
LovetroFamily
Tsivitis Family
Lee Family
359 Lake Avenue
St. James, NY 11780
Phone: (631) 862-9000
Fax: (631) 862-2881
Email: [email protected]
www.SearchingLongIslandNY.com
$15,000
Formal Wear
& Uniformals
DRY CLEANING
AND TAILORING
...an important group of individuals, without whose efforts this
journal could not have been produced. Our inexhaustible fundraisers have, again, succeeded in
gathering an astonishing array of
advertising pages and gifts for our
annual raffle. Their success has
helped ensure continued funding
for our exciting dance programs
and competitions for the coming
year.
Bravo!!!
(631) 751-9595
Black Tie
We Wish To
Acknowledge
$600
William J. Garthe
Engel Family • Bishop Family
Caraiani Family • Kharzeev Family
Mannino Family • Palma Family
Moshe Family
3
VALIA SEISKAYA
Russian-born Valia Seiskaya took her first ballet
lessons in Greece at the age of six. Her teacher was
Adam Morianoff, also a Russian émigré. (Valia
was experiencing difficulty learning Greek; thus,
it was natural for her mother to seek out a fellow
countryman.) At nine she became a scholarship
student, showing prodigious technique—for example, entrechat huit, eight beats, in centre—by
age ten. Pointe work also started at ten, character
ballet at twelve. Thereafter, Mme. Seiskaya rapidly
developed the combination of strong technique and
high elevation which would become her hallmark
as a professional.
At fifteen, Valia continued her training under Sonia Morianova, the niece of Adam
Morianoff, who had recently retired from the National Opera of Greece. She became
a member of the National Opera at seventeen, soon attaining the rank of featured soloist, and touring Europe and Russia with the company. At the National Theater her
preparation continued under resident ballet masters and choreographers, including
the Bolshoi’s Asaf Messerer, Boris Kniazev, Nina Kyrsanova and Olympia Yelodari
(former judge at the International Ballet Competitions held in Varna, Bulgaria and
Moscow).
In Greece, as in most European countries, ballet students wishing to become professionals must pass comprehensive national level examinations and obtain a license.
Mme. Seiskaya fulfilled all of her requirements and was granted both a diploma and
a license.
The Seiskaya Ballet School was founded in 1974, one year after Mme. Seiskaya
retired from the National Opera of Greece. At that time she taught all fifteen class
sections. In 1976 Studio A was doubled in size to its present 2,500 square feet, and
in 1981 Studio B was opened, adding another 1,500 square feet to the dance facility.
That year also saw the establishment of the Seiskaya Ballet Academy.
The Academy was designed as a professional training program for serious dancers who
display the determination, physical attributes and musicality of the career-oriented
dancer. Admission to the Academy is by audition only. Since the inception of the
Seiskaya Ballet programs, over sixty students have opted for professional careers.
The OPEN program was developed in 2006 to compliment the Academy and accommodate requests for more scheduling flexibility.
All Academy students are encouraged to participate in the guest teacher and summer workshop programs offered by the Ballet Education and Scholarship Fund, Inc.
(BESFI). As part of their professional preparation, Academy students’ participation
in auditions for company schools, summer workshops, internships and major dance
4 companies is routinely encouraged.
Seiskaya students have compiled an outstanding record of achievement. Through the
years, full scholarships have been awarded by every major institution for which they
have auditioned, including schools affiliated with American Ballet Theatre (ABT),
New York City Ballet, and the San Francisco, Houston, Joffrey, Pacific Northwest,
Pittsburgh, Eliot Feld, and Boston Ballets. Some of the many dance companies
Seiskaya students have joined: ABT (5), Atlanta Ballet (2), Boston (2), Ballet West,
Fort Worth, Hartford, Pacific Northwest, Pittsburgh, Royal Swedish, State Ballet of
Missouri, Ballet Arizona, Tennessee, Milwaukee (3), New Jersey, Alabama, Washington,
Louisville, Austin, Tulsa Ballets and Momix.
In 1994 Seiskaya student Michael Cusumano captured a bronze medal and Special
Commendation at the International Ballet Competition (IBC) in Varna, Bulgaria and
a coveted Jury Award (a gold medal-level award) at the Prix de Danse, Paris, France.
Valia Seiskaya was nominated that year as the Best Teacher and Coach at Varna, one
of the few Americans ever to be so honored.
In 1996 Kirov student Rasta Thomas, coached by Valia Seiskaya, reached the pinnacle:
a gold medal in the Men’s Junior Division at the 17th IBC, Varna, Bulgaria. Incredibly,
he was the first American male dancer ever to win a Junior Division gold and the
youngest male dancer ever to do so. In addition, his triumph ended a sixteen-year
stretch in which no gold medal was awarded in the Junior Men’s Division.
In 1998 Seiskaya student Elizabeth McGrath represented the U.S. in the 18th IBC in
Varna, Bulgaria. In late‘98 she was a top finalist in the 8th Concours International
de Danse de Paris, France. Among the numerous awards earned during the current
decade: Anna Craddock earned 2nd prize in the 2008 American Ballet Competition,
Miami, Fl. and in 2009, the grand prize in the 9th International Dance Competition Hellas (Greece). Seiskaya alum Cory Stearns (ABT principal) won the vaunted 2008
Erik Bruhn Prize in Toronto, Canada. In 2012, Danielle Lovetro earned 2nd place in
the regional Youth American Grand Prix while Anna Craddock swept to a 1st place
finish at the American Ballet Competition in Houston, Texas and a 1st place finish in the
senior division at the 2013 YAGP regional. Seiskaya students have captured more than
twenty national/regional awards, including those from the National Arts and Letters
Competition; National Arts Recognition and Talent Competition (Presidential Scholar
in the Arts); Saraband, Ltd; and the Amilita Hoffman Memorial Ballet Competition.
During her seventeen-year professional career with the National Opera of Greece,
Mme. Seiskaya gained an affinity for the grand sweep of story-line ballets and operas
staged by the company. Her own choreographic works, such as Street People, Las
Damiselas, Forest, MASK, and the Nutcracker, reflect that interest. Fresh interpretations
of classical favorites La Boutique Fantasque, Walpurgis Night and A
Night on Bald Mountain complement her signature ensemble works Grand Waltz,
Seasons and Dance of the Hours.
Valia Seiskaya is listed in Who’s Who Among Outstanding Americans and was The
Village Times 1985 Woman of the Year in the Arts. Thrice, she has been
awarded Teacher of the Year by YAGP. She has received commendations
from, among others, President Reagan, Governor Pataki and Congressman Forbes. In 2011, Mde. Seiskaya was elected to the Long Island
Volunteer Hall of Fame for her work nurturing young talented dancers.
VALIA SEISKAYA, LFB
Artistic Director
Johanna Hsu
Alexandra Tsivitis
Sara Bedell
Kerry Ann Dennehy
Nicole DiFiore
Alyse Melillo
Anna Craddock
Alexandra Palma
SEISKAYA BALLET
7 Flowerfield, Suite 16
St. James, NY 11780
(631) 862-6925
[email protected]
www.seiskaya.com
S
E
I
S
K
A
Y
A
B
A
L
L
E
T
5
Schaefer
THE
INC
Agency
INSURANCE
PERSONAL AND COMMERCIAL INSURANCE
Committed to Outstanding
Customer Service Since 1975
201 East Main Street, Smithtown, NY 11787
Phone: 631.979.7474 Fax: 631.979.7485
www.SchaeferAgency.net
6
Guest Artist
- Bravo Seiskaya Ballet
BOYKO DOSSEV
P & S Newspaper
Group, Ltd.
Phillip L. Sciarillo, Publisher
Salvatori DiPeri, Publisher
Smithtown Messenger
Ronkonkoma Review
Brookhaven Review
Patchogue Medford News
1 West Main Street Suite 200
Smithtown, NY 11787
(631) 265-3500
Boyko Dossev studied at The National Ballet
School in Sofia, Bulgaria where he was a student of
Bisser Deyanov. He went on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Ballet Teaching and received his
Masters Degree in Choreography at The National
Conservatory “Professor Pancho Vladigerov.”
Trained by renowned teachers, among them, Irina
Jacobson, Irina Kolpakova, Vladilen Semenov and
Lloyd Riggins, his professional career began at Le
Jeune Ballet de France. Mr. Dossev has danced
with John Neumeier’s Hamburg Ballet and Dresden State Ballet-Semperoper Dresden joining Boston Ballet in 2006. Garnering gold medals from
The Bulgarian National Ballet Competition, 1997
and Varna International Ballet Competition (IBC),
2002, he has also appeared in numerous gala performances including The Mega Gala Meeting of The
Generations at the Varna IBC 2008. Mr. Dossev
has won critical acclaim for his blistering technique
with a repertoire that includes works by choreographers John Cranko, John Neumeier, Jiri Kylian,
August Bournonville, George Balanchine and Oleg
Vinogradov. Choreographing extensively, he has
created works for Semperoper Dresden, Hamburg
Ballet, Festival Ballet Providence, Boston Ballet,
Boston Ballet School and Harvard University Ballet Company. Teaching credits include: Boston Ballet School, University of Maryland, Harvard University and at JMS in Toulouse, France.
7
~
Best of Luck
~
Congratulations
The Grundfast Family
and
Law Office Staff
8
n
15% off
Mentio
R in
da
s
hi
c.
ST
ME
DA
IN TI
P
E
t
Congratulations to the entire BESFI cast
Guest Artist
NC
EW
EA
pointe shoes
Maria Rignola
Owner
DAVID HOVHANNISYAN
Pointe Shoes By:
• Grishko • Gaynor Minden
• Bloch • Capezio • Freed
• Chacott • Gamba • Leo’s
• Pietra • Russian Pointe
~ Call for appointment ~
25 Route 101, E. Patchogue, NY 11772
(631) 289-7742
Born in Armenia, David Hovhannisyan began
dancing at the age of six. At the age of 10, he was
accepted into the National Ballet School of Armenia
on full scholarship. At 16, he began his professional
career with the Armenian National Ballet Company.
Upon arriving in the United States in 1999, he
began dancing for numerous companies throughout
the country receiving critical acclaim for his roles.
In 2004, Mr. Hovhannisyan joined the Milwaukee
Ballet under artistic director, Michael Pink.
Currently in his ninth season with the company, he
has performed leading roles in works by Michael
Pink, Trey McIntyre, George Balanchine, Kathy
Posin, Margo Sappington, Layla York, Bruce Wells,
Stephen Mills, Mark Godden and many others. As
a Leading Artist with Milwaukee Ballet, he has
enjoyed dancing the principal roles of Captain
Pheobus in The Hunchback of Notre Dame,
Romero in Romeo and Juliet, Count Dracula in
Dracula, Prince/Cavalier in The Nutcracker,
Oberon in A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Tamino
in The Magic Flute, Prince Siegfried in Swan
Lake, Moon Prince in Scheherazade, Prince
Solar in La Bayadere, Basilio in Don Quixote,
Captain Hook/Mr. Darling in Peter Pan, Acteon
in Diana and Acteon as well as numerous leads
in contemporary ballets including Agon, Second
Before the Ground, Common People, Vital
Sensations, and Divertimento For Eight.
9
AUTO REPAIR
Specializing In:
HIGH PERFORMANCE ENGINE REBUILDING
CARBURETOR & FUEL INJECTION SERVICE
GENERAL SERVICES
FLEET SERVICES
JIM
24 HOUR
TOWING
(631) 438-8484
(631) 751-2138
(631) 689-0168
88A Johnson Avenue
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
10
Guest Artist
Harry L. Hackett III, CFM, CRPC®
First Vice President - Investments
Wealth Management Advisor
Global Wealth Management
57 Hampton Road Ste 1
Southampton, NY 11968
T 631 204 8663 Direct
T 800 234 3816 Toll Free
F 631 456 4901
[email protected]
J RYAN CARROLL
Merrill Lynch
Beginning his formal training at the Alabama Dance
Theater, Mr. Carroll continued training at Booker
T. Washington Magnet High School and received
the prestigious Jeff Blair Award. Mr. Carroll also
attended both the American Academy of Ballet and
Wright State University on scholarship. Invited
by Laura Alonso to study in Havana, Cuba, he
ultimately apprenticed with Classico de la Havana.
Two years with the Alabama Ballet led to soloist and
principal roles with the American Repertory Ballet.
He was Principal Soloist with Ballet Concierto
de Puerto Rico in San Juan under the direction
of Carlos Cabrerra. He has been a principal guest
artist with Northwest Florida Ballet, Mobile Ballet,
Highlands Ballet, Central Ballet of Tennessee,
Alabama Dance Theater, Western Ballet of Puerto
Rico, Portland Ballet, and New England Dance
Theater. His extensive repertoire includes Tybalt in
Romeo and Juliet, Franz in Coppelia, Cerventes
in Don Quixote, Hilarion in Giselle, Cavalier in
Nutcracker, Moor in Fokine’s Petruschka, Prince
in Cinderella, Twyla Tharp’s Baker’s Dozen, Poet
in Jose Pares’ Poeme, Alberto Mendez’s Pasion,
Dracula in Dracula, and Siegfried in Swan Lake
as well as leading roles in Le Spectre de la Rose,
Le Jeune Homme et la Mort, and Tango. Mr.
Carroll continues to train with David Howard. He
appears today opposite featured soloist Alexandra
Berti in the Sleeping Beauty Pas de Deux.
11
Proud to Support the
Ballet Education & Scholarship Fund, Inc.
JOSEPH ZURLO
[email protected]
ILCO
ILCO PAINTING CORPORATION
50 Swalm Street, Westbury, New York 11590
P 516 483 5200 F 8705 C 516 428 0320
12
Guest Artist
BILLY BLANKEN
TV • Radio • Web • PR • Print
Social Media Marketing • Viral Video
Company Branding • Creative Services
Let our staff make your life easy!
Contact: Roy Zeidman
427 Rte 25A, Suite 1, Rocky Point 11778
631-651-8949
Mr. Blanken began performing under the tutelage
of Nat Horne, at the renowned Muse Machine,
while studying at the Gary Geiss School of
Dance. Upon receiving a scholarship, he attended
Ball State University, graduating with degrees in
acting and dance. At Ball State, he danced with the
Anderson Young Ballet as well as Project Motion.
Demonstrating his expertise of the anatomy and
body physiology in dance, he taught students in
the Indiana Public Schools. As a senior, William
received an invitation to attend the Joffrey Ballet
School in New York, on full scholarship. In a two
year stint with the Joffrey, he performed in their
premier of the Nutcracker and produced the
School’s first Student Choreographic Workshop.
Beginning his professional career with the Amy
Marshall Dance Company, subsequently joining
the Les Grand Ballets Grandiva, and in 2007,
NYC’s Ajkun Ballet Theater. He has performed
as a principal guest artist with Brooklyn Ballet,
Catherine Gallant Dance, Atlantic City Ballet,
Mobile Ballet, Eidolon Ballet, Neville Dance
Theatre and Ballet Mink Colbert in Las Vegas. An
eclectic provider to the performing arts, he wrote,
produced, choreographed and performed The
Intimacies Project featured at the Galapagos Arts
Center in Brooklyn, NY. His modeling credentials
include work with photographer Lois Greenfield as
well as his appearance in Men’s Italian Vogue.
13
14
The Sleeping Beauty
In an attempt to lure Prince Florimund to
the castle where Aurora lies sleeping in Act
II, the Lilac Fairy shows him a vision. He is
immediately captivated and drawn to the castle
to awaken the sleeping princess and her court.
In Act III's Wedding Scene, characters from
many of the fairy tales come to the wedding of
Aurora and Prince Florimund. All await the the
royal couple who come forward and begin to
dance. The gracious and formal pas de deux
concludes as tender music ascends to a pitch of
everlasting joy.
La Fille Mal Gardée
La Fille Mal Gardée is a comic ballet. The
excerpted pas de deux portrays the lovers,
Lisette and Colin, attempting to deal with her
arranged betrothal to another man.
Harlequinade Pas de Deux
The commedia dell’arte first introduced the world
to the ministrations of Harlequin and Columbine.
Harlequin, adjudged by Columbine’s wealthy
father as an undesirable suitor for his daughter,
rises to the challenge to win her hand. The
significance of the story is the establishment of a
standard for the presentation of comedy narrative.
Paquita Pas de Deux
Paquita, a Spanish gypsy, loves Lucien, a French
nobleman. Marriage is impossible because of
the difference in their social situations. All turns
out well, however, when Paquita discovers that
she is, in fact, the daughter of a nobleman.
Black Swan Pas de Deux
The Black Swan Pas de Deux depicts the scene
where the wicked Odile is consorting with Prince
Siegfried at his 21st birthday ball. Highlights
include a sequence of 32 fouettés executed by
the ballerina, and the coda, wherein the Prince
enters on a great leap and circles the stage in
soaring grand jétés.
Hooligans Pas de Deux
Choreographed by Mme. Seiskaya, the
lusty Hooligans Pas de Deux is a flirtatious
seduction. Set to the contemporary music of
Yanni, the score melds the couple into a single
form that explores an abundance of neoclassical
symmetries.
Flower Festival in Genzano
Bournonville's Flower Festival is a fantasy
contrasted with everyday characters and
incidents. The great pas de deux was inserted
BALLET EDUCATION AND SCHOLARSHIP FUND, INC.
2013 Benefit Performance
Friday, April 26th, 7PM & Saturday, April 27th, 2PM
Staller Center for the Arts
Composer/ChoreographerPerformers
SLEEPING BEAUTY PAS DE DEUX
Tchaikovsky/Petipa
Alexandra Berti, J Ryan Carroll
THE VISION from THE SLEEPING BEAUTY ACT II (Fri.)
Tchaikovsky/Petipa
Anna Craddock
TARANTELLA - CHARACTER DANCE MINIATURE
Rossini,Resphigi/SeiskayaCorps
Soloists: A. Aubé, M. Mursch (Fri.), D. Atoian, E. Pyrros (Sat.)
Demi-soloists: L. Caraiani, Gr. Carrero-Sagona, A. Liu, S. Mannino
LA FILLE MAL GARDEE (Fri.)
Hertel/Seiskaya after Nijinska
Kristina Diaz, Boyko Dossev
HARLEQUINADE PAS DE DEUX (Sat.)
Drigo/Petipa
Danielle Lovetro, Boyko Dossev
PAQUITA PAS DE DEUX
Minkus/Makarova after Petipa
Leads: Alexandra Palma, David Hovhannisyan
Soloists (in order of appearance): Lauren Kerr, Jade Donnelly, Julia Kharzeev
RRRRR FIFTEEN MINUTE INTERMISSION RRRRR
BLACK SWAN PAS DE DEUX
Tchaikovsky/Petipa
Anna Craddock, Boyko Dossev
HOOLIGANS PAS DE DEUX (Fri.)
Yanni/Seiskaya
Marianna Spentzos, Mac Gershfield
FLOWER FESTIVAL PAS DE DEUX (Sat.)
Helsted/Bournonville
Ashley Chenery, Mac Gershfield
SIBERIAN - CHARACTER DANCE MINIATURE
Folk Dance/Sadikova
Corps
NOTHING BUT WATER (Sat.)
Grace Potter & The Nocturnals/Chandler-Torns, Palma
Alexandra Palma
SYLVIA PAS DE DEUX
Delibes/Merante
Alexandra Tsivitis, David Hovhannisyan
RRRRR FIFTEEN MINUTE INTERMISSION RRRRR
STREET PEOPLE
Premiered March 22, 1986
Choreography: Valia Seiskaya
Set Design: Bill Morrison, Janet Rogienski
Costumes: Sue DiFiore, Lillian Melillo
Street Urchin
Bag Lady
Schoolgirls
Model
Skull Gang Leader
Gang Members
Policeman
Librarian
Governess
Two Rich Brats
Policewoman
Street Hawkers
Composer: Saint-Saëns
Lighting Design: Liz Silver
Stage Manager: Liz Silver
Rehearsal Mistress: Johanna Hsu
Marianna Spentzos
Alyse Melillo
Rita Abanov, Sarah Adamo, Emily Bishop, Anya Caraiani,
Hannah Crews, Amber Donnelly, Brianna Jimenez, Jenna Lee
Julia Kharzeev (Fri.), Jamie Bergold (Sat.)
Jade Donnelly
Mac Gershfield, Monique Abrams,
Natalie Butkevich, Sydney Essex, Lauren Kerr (Fri.),
Alexandra Berlingieri, Ginamarie Carrero-Sagona, Emma Mannino (Sat.)
Billy Blanken
Alexandra Tsivitis
Alyson Miller
Alexandra Berlingieri, Emma Mannino (Fri.)
Natalie Butkevich, Lauren Kerr (Sat.)
Alexandra Palma (Fri.), Anna Craddock (Sat.)
Alexandra Berti, Ginamarie Carrero-Sagona (Fri.)
Sydney Essex, Julia Kharzeev (Sat.)
by H. Lander in his one-act version of Napoli
for the London Festival Ballet in 1954, and has
since been a popular number for star dancers.
Sylvia Pas de Deux
Sylvia, a nymph, is a votary of Diana, chaste
goddess of the hunt. She initially rejects the
love of Aminta, a shepherd, setting off a series
of cataclysms. She is captured by Orion, the
dark hunter, and rescued by Eros, god of love.
Her union with Aminta finally comes to be and
is blessed by Diana.
Street People
Set in contemporary American working class
neighborhood in transition, the ballet depicts life
on a city block which is a buffer between a large
private school and a low income housing project.
The central character is a young, homeless girl
who has become street smart and street tough.
Cautious but lonely, she befriends a bag lady
and the local beat cop. In the opening scene, the
bag lady, as a friendly gesture, gives the street
urchin the gift of a scarf to which the youngster
becomes very attached. The urchin witnesses
the wrong-doings of the “Skulls” street gang,
but the code of the streets keeps her silent until
one of the gang members maliciously steals her
beloved scarf.
Area residents want the police to apprehend
the elusive "Skulls" gang members for harassing
the neighborhood, while merchants pressure the
precinct to cope with shabby-looking bag ladies
attracted to the area by the St. Agnes clothing
drop. Meanwhile, an invasion of unlicensed
street peddlers hawking their wares in front of
the established shops further angers the local
merchants.
The neighborhood patrolman cannot resist
flirting with the pretty local school librarian.
Observed by his undercover policewoman fiancé,
he lands in hot water.
Pressure to apprehend the “Skulls” mounts
when the governess of an influential family has
her jewelry stolen in broad daylight while she is
tending her wards, and a well known cover girl,
home for a visit, is mugged. Utilizing a tip from
the street urchin, crafty police work finally puts the
“Skulls” out of business. By now our homeless
orphan has become very attached to her police
friends and begins hoping fate is about to deal
her a new hand. As her expectations rise, hopes
are suddenly dashed ...or are they?
15
ADVANCED GASTROENTEROLOGY
& ENDOSCOPY, P.C.
ALI S. KARAKURUM, MD, FACP, FACG
BOARD CERTIFIED IN GASTROENTEROLOGY
Announces their state-of-the-art office
endoscopy facilities at their new location
70 North Country Road, Suite 201
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
Specializing in Digestive, Liver,
Pancreatic & Biliary Diseases
and Colon Cancer Screening
Telephone: (631) 331.0200
(888) GASTRO–1
Fax: (631) 331.0202
In Support of Anna Craddock
16
Dear Anna,
Being a dancer is full of unbelievable
highs and lows. Respect yourself, find
a balance between your family, your
friends and your craft. It takes a lot
of dedication and sacrifice to uphold
your commitment to dance! Take
care of your body. Treasure every ballet
class, rehearsal and performance.
Sharing yourself with others through
movement is one of the most fulfilling
forms of expression. Time heals all:
Just keep believing in yourself. And
trust that the words of wisdom from
your teachers and mentors will
make perfect sense one day! We love
you so much. There is no set path.
Just follow your heart. Enjoy the
journey. God bless you!
Love, Mom, Dad and Benjamin
Dear Valia and Dimitri, Johanna,
Kerry Ann, Sara and my Seiskaya
Family,
Thank you for your guidance, love
and support.
Love, Anna and
the Craddock Family
Principal
ANNA LI CRADDOCK – Age 16
Ward Melville High School
Twelfth Grade
Few ballet students have amassed the accolades
and experience of Anna Craddock. She will
perform the Sleeping Beauty Act II Aurora
variation, as Policewoman in Street People and
again be paired with Boyko Dossev for the Black
Swan Pas de Deux. In Seiskaya’s Nutcracker this
year, Anna and principal dancer from ABT, Cory
Stearns, enchanted the audience in the Sugar Plum
Pas de Deux. Anna attended the Bolshoi Summer
Intensive in NYC for the last two years, and in
2012, traveled to Russia on full scholarship for
the National Security Language Initiative held in
concert with the Bolshoi. She also attended The
Rock School and the BESFI summer workshops.
She was accepted into ABT Summer Intensive
in NYC and also received the Young Arts Merit
Scholar for 2013 and was personally chosen by
Mikhail Baryshnikov to perform for the Young Arts
Gala in May 2013. Notching 1st place in the 2012
American Ballet Competition and Grand Prize in
the 2009 Hellas International Ballet Competition
resulted in several apprenticeship offers. Most
recently, she garnered 1st place, in the Senior
Category, at the YAGP semifinals held in Hartford,
Connecticut. Anna has been accepted to Indiana
University Jacob School of Music.
17
Story Book Homes, Inc.
CUSTOM HOMES • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL
LAND DEVELOPERS • APARTMENTS
SALES OFFICE
(631) 979-9510
BUSINESS OFFICE
(631) 265-6131
FAX (631) 265-6343
Best Wishes to all the Seiskaya Dancers
and a special Congratulations to my
granddaughter Alexandra Palma
on her BESFI Performance.
18
AL HORNBERGER
PRESIDENT
Principal
ALEXANDRA DIANE PALMA – Age 17
St. Mary’s High School
Eleventh Grade
To Our Awe-Inspiring Alexandra,
Your heartfelt dancing brings such happiness to our lives as we
watch you follow your dreams.
You are the whole amazing package!
Couldn’t Love You More,
Mom, Dad, Jack, John, Alane, Tobia & Vincent
Alexandra will arrest the audience tonight as
Policewoman in Street People partnered with
Billy Blanken. She will also perform the Paquita
Pas de Deux with partner David Hovhannisyan and
her original solo, “Nothing But Water.” As Sugar
Plum, in Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012, reviewer
Phillip L. Sciarillo of the Smithtown Messenger
expressed, “Physically ideally suited to each other,
guest artist ABT principal dancer, Cory Stearns and
Seiskaya Ballet principal dancer, Alexandra Palma
were simply electric. The dancer’s lines melded so
well in the pas de deux it was as if the two were one.
Matching arabesques, high elevation in their jumps
and flowing port de bras made them mesmerizing
to behold. A prodigious turner in her own right,
Palma lent a sense of ease and grace to the piece
that can only be imbued by an ultimate technician.
Supple arms and adept musical phrasing have
been her hallmark and were put to great use. The
coda was a tour de force for both dancers. The
pyrotechnics included grand jetés, pirouettes and
fouettes galore plus a heart-thumping fish dive in
the finale. Sublime, simply sublime!” Alex trained
on scholarships at Walnut Hill, BESFI and ABT
New York. She ranked 6th in the 11th grade with a
101.7 average.
19
Home of Fine Greek Cuisine
Come in and enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal, friendly
service, relaxed and casual dining perhaps over a glass of
wine or a mug of cold beer.
Your host,
Loucas Pericli
127-16 Smithtown Blvd, Nesconset Plaza
(631) 979-0924
20
Principal
“The secret to having it all is believing that you already do.”
- Unknown
ALEXANDRA TSIVITIS – Age 18
Smithtown High School East
Twelfth Grade
Thank you
Valia, Dimitri, my family and the Seiskaya team
for being a part of my life and for giving
me your support and inspiration
for the last fourteen years.
I am so grateful!
Alexandra will captivate us this evening with her
grace and charisma as she dances the Sylvia Pas
de Deux with guest artist David Hovhannisyan
and as the Librarian in Street People. In last
year’s BESFI performance, Alexandra danced an
engaging, energetic Esmeralda in her first pas de
deux, and lent her exquisite extensions and natural
musicality to the roles of Swan in Forest and Girl
in the lyrical piece Arrival of the Birds. Of her
performance in Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012, the
Smithtown Messenger’s Phillip L. Sciarillo wrote,
“Nowhere was the quality of the dancing any
higher than when Alexandra Tsivitis took the stage
as the Doll. Her extraordinary leg extensions,
picture perfect turns and mimicked mechanical
machinations were delightful to watch.” In addition,
her Snow Queen sparkled with radiant elegance.
She further graced the Nutcracker stage in the
roles of Flower Soloist, Snowflake, and Friend of
Clara and Fritz. An advanced pianist and cellist,
Alexandra performed at Carnegie Hall in 2011
with her school’s orchestra. She is a skilled and
decorated student of Greek, Italian, and Spanish,
and she plans on combining her love of language
and science by studying Speech Pathology, as well
as Dance, at Hunter College this fall.
21
22
First Soloist
Thank you Valia and Dimitri, for pointing Mac and us in
the right direction. Thanks to all the teachers and parents
at Seiskaya who help Mac feel at home.
- Hazel and Charlie Gershfield
MAC DELENE GERSHFIELD – Age 15
Home Schooled
Tenth Grade
Mac,
We’ll all be there cheering you on.
Love from Mom, Dad, Max, Hannah, Amy, Rose, Jessie and Owen
BESFI’s 2012 Benefit was a coming of age for
Mac. The reviewer opined, “The Bluebird Pas de
Deux featured future stars Danielle Lovetro and
Mac Gershfield...Gershfield’s successive entrechatsix combinations had the audience applauding
regularly. Together the couple was enchanting.”
“Mac Gershfield returns partnered by Marianna
Spentzos for the [Satanilla] pas. The pair make a
strikingly attractive couple with complementary
classical lines and an excellent sense of musicality.
Gershfield again regaled the audience with
his budding technical prowess completing
a series of gallops with several pirouettes.”
Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012 became a tour de force
for Mac, “Of particular note was a departure in the
Clara-Nutcracker Pas de Deux from past seasons.
It was rechoreographed to take advantage of Mac
Gershfield’s ... talents...” “The pas was lyrical and
flowed seamlessly incorporating intricate balances,
multiple partnered turns and stunning penchée
arabesques.” Reuniting with Marianna Spentzos,
the couple will dance the high-spirited Hooligans
Pas de Deux. Joining him for the jaunty Flower
Festival Pas de Deux will be Ashley Chenery.
In addition to BESFI, Mac will attend the San
Francisco Summer Intensive on full scholarship.
23
The Bank That Always Gives You >More!
>More Branch Locations • >More ATM Access
>More Extended Hours • >More Convenience
We Proudly Support The Ballet Education and Scholarship Fund, Inc.
For more information, please speak with one of our branch representatives
Jennifer Fasano, Branch Manager
556-02 North Country Road • St. James, NY 11780 • (631) 740-862-4200• www.myNYCB.com
24
“Anyone who says sunshine brings happiness has
never danced in the rain.” - Unknown
First Soloist
ALEXANDRA BERTI – Age 15
St. John the Baptist High School
Tenth Grade
Dear Valia and Dimitri,
You are always there to critique, encourage and inspire me.
Thank you for making me reach to the stars and beyond.
Love, Alex
Enchanting us tonight, Alexandra will dance
the classic Sleeping Beauty Wedding Pas de
Deux partnered by J Ryan Carroll. She will also
delight us as a Street Hawker in Street People. In
Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012, Alexandra reprised
her delightful Doll, Chinese, Snowflake, Flower
Soloist, and Friend of Clara and Fritz. Alexandra’s
signature arabesques, stage presence, precise
technique and turns have been noted many times,
and, in 2011 reviewer Phillip L. Sciarillo wrote,
“A regal Alexandra Berti as the Snow Queen
commands a corps de ballet...Berti’s supple limbs,
strong jumps and large arabesques frame her solo
sequences.” In addition she danced an elegant
Swan in Forest and also danced in Zhok for BESFI
2012. She has trained with BESFI on scholarship,
Bolshoi Ballet and The Rock School. Acceptances
also include Bolshoi Ballet NY, Boston Ballet
and Joffrey Ballet NY, LA, Italy and the Summer
Intensive at The Bolshoi, Russia. Alexandra has
been accepted to the year round Trainee Program at
Joffrey Ballet on scholarship. In addition to being
a gifted honors student she is also a member of her
school’s prestigious GENESIS program, and is on
the varsity tennis team.
25
Complete Medical Family Care PLLC
George Lehner MD, abfm, faafp
“We carry difficult to find
specialty medications
99% in stock.”
1805 Fifth Avenue
Bay Shore, NY 11706
Tel: (631) 231-4960
Fax: (631) 231-0368
735 Middle Country Road
Saint James, NY 11780
631.656.9200
̴
se habla espanol
www.georgelehnermd.com
Lake Grove
DINER
Open 24 Hours
2211 Route 347
Phone: 631-471-5370
l
Lake Grove, NY 11755
Fax: 631-471-9474
SMITHTOWN OPTICAL
Eye Exams • Prescriptions • Contact Lenses
DR. ROBERT DONDIEGO
2 Miller Place
Smithtown, NY 11787
(631) 360-3420
26
First Soloist
“I do not try to dance better than anyone else. I only try to dance better than myself.”
- Mikhail Baryshnikov
KRISTINA ELENA DIAZ – Age 15
Our Lady of Mercy Academy
Tenth Grade
Dear Kristina,
We are so proud of how you continue to challenge
yourself. You have grown so much as a dancer this
year. We are very proud!
Mom and Dad
Kristina burst onto center stage in 2011 in
Seiskaya’s Nutcracker with a variety of leading
roles, including the coveted role of Clara. Of her
Chocolate Soldier, reviewer Philip Sciarillo in the
Smithtown Messenger wrote Diaz’s “...athleticism
and strong technique culminated in a series of
several pirouettes...” and then she “...returned as
the Dew Drop and gave a splendid performance
commanding multiple sequences of fouettés and
pirouettes.” And in 2012, “No less pleasing was
Kristina Diaz as the Chocolate Soldier who wowed
the audience with magnificent side straddle split
jumps and a series of gallop turns culminating in
a burst of pirouettes.” Additional roles included
Arabian Soloist and Friend of Clara and Fritz.
As the Bird in Forest, Kristina’s leaps and turns
highlighted her hallmark technique to which many
other dancers aspire. She has attended the BESFI
summer program for the past three years and is a
new member of the Our Lady of Mercy Academy
ballet and pointe team, and their Dots Dance
Team. She was the recipient of the Art Award upon
graduation from St. Patrick School. This Honor
Roll student stays active as a Girl Scout and altar
server at St. Patrick’s Church in Smithtown.
27
Our best wishes to
VALIA AND
THE ENTIRE BESFI CAST
Harry Boutis, D.D.S.
General & Cosmetic Dentistry
28
285 Middle Country Road, Suite 108
Smithtown, N.Y. 11787
631-265-0030
First Soloist
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty
of their dreams.”
- Eleanor Roosevelt
ALYSE MARIE MELILLO – Age 20
Suffolk Community College
Art Major
A veteran of the Seiskaya Academy, Alyse’s
dance repertoire and style acumen are second to
none. She will endear the audience with her witty
rendition of Bag Lady in tonight’s performance of
Street People. Of her role as Fritz in Nutcracker
2012, a reviewer raved, “For the Party Scene, she
[Clara] had the perfect foil in the diminutive Alyse
Melillo as her bratty brother Fritz. The pair was
quite believable as the squabbling siblings. They
fused; they romped and they cajoled. The dancing
was superb; the acting was terrific.” The impish
dancer was graceful in Flowers and Snow garnering
kudos for her rendition of the challenging role
of Chocolate Soldier. Combining exceptional
athleticism and musicality, Alyse’s jumps are
explosive, her turns endless and her acting sublime.
She showcased her diverse dance talent at METRO
Talent Competition in 2011 receiving a High Gold
in ballet and Platinum awards in contemporary.
Alyse is currently enrolled at Suffolk Community
College studying Fine Arts with an eye to the future
and an arts affiliated career. Her hobby is drawing
ballerinas and comics. As a member of the Anime
Club at the Suffolk Campus, Alyse continues to
hone both her drawing and acting skills.
29
CHARIOT
COLLISION CENTER
Ask About Our
Environmentally
Friendly
Water-Based
Paint
We NoW Do
Auto CustomiziNg
"We Make Dreams A Reality"
CHARIOT COLLISION CeNTeR, INC.
©120790
30
24 HR. TOWING 585-9530
91 Gnarled Hollow rd., east setauket
631–751–1515
www.chariotautocollision.com
Mike annino
chariot_120790.indd 1
ATM
3/6/13 2:09 PM
Featured Soloist
Dear Valia and Dimitri
Thank you for all the support, encouragement and
opportunities you have given me.
Love Always
Ashley
ASHLEY CHENERY – AGE 15
Ward Melville High School
Tenth Grade
Dear Ashley
I am so proud of all you’ve accomplished this year.
There’s nothing you can’t achieve. This girl is on fire!
All My Love
Mom
Ashley’s flawless technique and sweet stage
presence will enchant us tonight in her first pas de
deux, the classic Bournonville Flower Festival in
Genzano, partnered by Mac Gershfield. Ashley is
a delicate dancer with beautiful port de bras and
lovely arched feet. These qualities made her the
perfect ballerina to cast as Butterfly and School
Girl in Forest in BESFI 2012. A beautiful dancer,
Ashley impressed the audience with her whimsical
charm and beauty in Seiskaya’s Nutcracker
2012, when she performed as a Friend of Clara,
Snowflake, Flower Soloist and Arabian Soloist. In
the role of Arabian she mesmerized the audience
with her fluid and graceful arm movements. An
accomplished dancer, last summer Ashley attended
the Bolshoi Ballet and BESFI summer intensives.
This summer she plans to continue her training
at The Joffrey Ballet where she received a full
scholarship as well as acceptance into their year
round Pre-professional Trainee Program. She will
also be attending BESFI summer intensive where
she has previously won scholarships. Ashley is
an AP and Honors student, whose award winning
poetry was published in a National Student Poetry
Book.
31
WE ARE PROUD TO SUPPORT
THE BALLET EDUCATION AND
SCHOLARSHIP FUND
Law Offices of
BRACKEN MARGOLIN BESUNDER LLP
1050 Old Nichols Road, Suite 200
Islandia, New York 11749
(631) 234-8585
32
Featured Soloist
Valia and Dimitri,
We thank you for training us in dance.
We have been blessed!
Love, Jade-Alexis and Amber
JADE-ALEXIS DONNELLY – AGE 15
Smithtown Christian School
Tenth Grade
“Dance is bigger than the
physical body. Think bigger than that.
When you extend your arm, it doesn’t stop
at the end of your fingers, because you’re
dancing bigger than that:
your dancing spirit.”
-Judith Jamison-
Tonight Jade-Alexis’s graceful beauty, masterful
technique and spirited versatility will be easily
evident when she dances the intricate Glove
Variation in Paquita. She will also showcase her
dynamic stage presence and explosive jumps as the
mischievous Gang Leader in Street People. JadeAlexis received accolades for her performance
in Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012, the Smithtown
Messenger’s Phillip L. Sciarillo wrote “Snow Queen
Jade Donnelly was regal leading a corps of twelve
ballerinas amidst gently falling snow framed by a
snow covered forest. Her high ballon, effortless
turns and impeccable musical timing were a marvel
to watch.” Jade-Alexis was exsquisite in her role
of Bo Peep, and also danced the roles of Friend of
Clara, Snowflake, Flower Soloist and Arabian. The
audience enjoyed her version of a fluid Snake at
last year’s BESFI Benefit. Jade-Alexis is a repeat
BESFI scholarship winner who has garnered
multiple acceptances from Alvin Ailey, Joffrey
Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, The Rock School
and Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet.
Jade-Alexis volunteers in several community
outreach programs to feed the homeless.
33
34
Featured Soloist
Precious Lauren,
The only thing lovlier than your dance is who you are. Thanks for being such a
wonderful daughter. Love always,Mom, Dad and Eric
LAUREN KERR – Age 12
Mount Sinai Middle School
Sixth Grade
Special thanks to Mrs. D. for
giving so much of yourself.
A loving thanks to Valia and Dimitri for
your dedication, devotion and direction,
guiding our children to excellence!
A very talented, promising young dancer, tonight
Lauren will mesmerize the crowd with her beauty
and musicality as she dances a solo in Paquita.
Lauren’s clean technique and dance prowess
will also be showcased as she performs in Street
People as Rich Brat and Gang Member. Her
lovely classic lines were featured in BESFI 2012
in her performance as Tree in Forest, and in the
character dances Zhok and Persian. Lauren’s high
extensions and graceful strength were noted in
Seiskaya’s Nutcracker 2012 as Arabian Soloist.
Her impressive jumps and turns were featured in
the quartet of Girls in the party scene. As a dancer
in Chinese, Lauren exhibited colossal kicks, and
then complimented her wide range of talent with
graceful extensions and beauty in Snowflake and
Flower. Lauren’s talents as a dancer have been
recognized as she was invited to continue her
training this summer with Bolshoi Ballet, the
Gelsey Kirkland Academy of Classical Ballet,
American Ballet Theatre, the Pennsylvania Theatre
School, and the Rock School with a scholarship.
Outside of ballet, Lauren also studies Flamenco
and enjoys reading and spending time with friends.
35
Dear Valia and Dimitri,
Thank you so much for always believing
in me. You motivate me every day to
become not only a stronger dancer, but a
stronger person.
Love,
Julia
36
Featured Soloist
“When you dance, I wish you
A wave o’ th’ sea, that you might ever do
Nothing but that.”
- Shakespeare
JULIA KHARZEEV – Age 15
Port Jefferson High School
Tenth Grade
Tonight, Julia will delight the audience with her
solo variation from the Paquita Grand Pas, and
as the Model and Street Hawker in Seiskaya’s
Street People. A graceful and willowy dancer
with undefinable flexibility and exuberant artistic
expression, she performed the roles of Snow
Queen, Bo Peep, Friend of Clara, Flower and
Arabian in Nutcracker 2012. Accepted to many
Summer Intensive programs including ABT, the
Rock School and Burklyn Ballet, Julia prefers to
attend the BESFI Summer Intensive and plans to
do this again this year. Academically gifted, Julia
enjoys taking Advanced Placement classes in
school and competes in Science Olympiad, Quiz
Bowl, Math Team and Latin Team. She is a triple
silver medalist in the Science Olympiad events Anatomy, Epidemiology and Forestry - both at the
Regional and NY State levels. Julia’s artistic talents
shine when she performs in the award winning
Drama Club “The Dragonfly” and plays piano. She
loves reading, traveling, cooking and going out
with friends. When thinking about college, Julia
plans to study biology and continue to dance.
37
Dr. Xiurong Sun, OMD
Licensed Acupuncturist
Certified Chinese Herbologist
Natural Healing by*Acupuncture*Herbs*Acupressure
10 Province Drive, S. Setauket, NY 11720
Appointment by Phone: (631) 585-8188 588-9508
E-mail: [email protected]
Paving & Custom Masonry
Commercial & Residential
My Darling Danielle,
DRIVEWAYS · BELGIUM BLOCK
BLACKTOP · CONCRETE · PATIOS
POOL AREAS · STOOPS
RETAINING WALLS · WALKWAYS
SEALTOPS
Each year I see you
become a more beautiful,
talented, dedicated and
passionate dancer. It is
easy to see how much you
love ballet. I am so very
proud of you!
I love you very much,
and I know that you will
have much success with
your dance in future years.
VelveTop™ SEALER.
HAND APPLIED
EXTREMELY NEAT.
ACTION BLACKTOP
631-265-5157
Free
ates
Estim
All my love,
Grandma
www.actionblacktopinc.com
Nassau Lic. #H2303010000 • Suffolk Lic. #26 520-HI
Erica R. Kaplan, D.D.S. DABP, PC
Periodontics and Implant Dentistry
9 Roosevelt Avenue, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776
Phone: 631-476-1700•Fax: 631-476-6972
www.drericakaplan.com
38
Stephen Schwab
PRESIDENT
(631) 331-4531
FAX: (631) 331-4532
Schwab’s
SCREENPRINTING & EMBROIDERY
7 Enterprise Drive•East Setauket, NY •11733
[email protected]
“Dancing is my obsession. My life.”
- Mikhail Baryshnikov
Featured Soloist
Dear Valia & Dimitri,
Thank you for your support & guidance and
the opportunities that you have given me.
Love Danielle
DANIELLE LOVETRO – Age 13
Nesaquake Middle School
Seventh Grade
Dear Danielle,
We are so excited to see you partner with Boyko
Dossev! Watching you dance brings so much joy
to our family. We hope and pray that your dream
of traveling the world performing ballet comes
true!
All Our Love Mom, Dad & Anthony
Danielle will grace us as she dances the
Harlequinade Pas De Deux with Boyko Dossev
in today’s performance. Endowed with excellent
physique and extensions, she dances with elegance,
poise and fluidity. Her portraiture of Clara in this
year’s Nutcracker was absolutely enthralling.
Equally impressive, Smithtown Messenger said of
Miss Lovetro’s Dew Drop, “Confidently whirling
through several turns in a pas de trois and then
leading her corps de ballet, she finished with a
flurry of well executed fouettes to avid applause.”
She also performed in Chinese, Clara’s Friend,
Snow and Flower. Danielle has been accepted to
Bolshoi Ballet Summer Intensive 2013, and School
of American Ballet Summer Intensive 2013, as
well as the Rock School of Ballet. She was invited
for full time study at the Bolshoi Ballet Academy
in Moscow, Russia. In the BESFI Scholarship
competition, Danielle was a first place winner for
three years consecutively. She also was a Youth
American Grand Prix Finalist in New York City
2012 and performed in their Gala at Lincoln Center.
Danielle received the Platinum Award and Future
Star Award at the METRO Talent Competition in
2011.
39
HURRY IN
FOR THE
HOTTEST
STYLES!
prom • parties • formals
bar/bat mitzvahs • mother of the bride
sweet sixteens • shoes • accessories
sizes 0-22 • expert alterations available
SSES
DRE
631-698-8900
1500 Middle Country Rd.
Centereach
VISIT US ONLINE AT:
www.PZAZDRESSES.com
40
10 % off
any 1 item
Pzaz Dresses
1500 Middle Country Road
Centereach•631-698-8900
In-stock merchandise only.
Not combinable. Not valid on prior
purchases. Some exclusions apply.
Featured Soloist
To our beautiful Alyson,
Congratulations on your seventh BESFI performance!
We are so proud of all of your accomplishments!
Reach for the stars and follow your dreams!
ALYSON ROSE MILLER – Age 15
Hauppauge High School
Tenth Grade
“With true passion you can do more
than you thought possible.”
- Gillian Murphy -
With all our love,
Mom, Dad, Justin & Ryan
Alyson, a very dedicated and versatile dancer,
will dance in Street People as the Governess. We
witnessed Aly’s elegance and strong jumps as she
performed in many roles for Seiskaya’s Nutracker
2012, including Bo Peep, Snowflake, Arabian
and Flower, and as one of the rare dancers chosen
to dance as both a boy and a girl in the quartets
of Friend of Clara and Fritz. Last year, her clean
lines and graceful port de bras were evident as both
Ranger’s Girlfriend and School Girl in Forest, as
well as in the vivacious Zhok. Aly has received
acceptances from the Joffrey NYC Pre-Pro
Intensive and year round Trainee Program, Bolshoi
Intensive and The Rock, but will attend Joffrey and
her ninth BESFI this summer. In addition to her
substantial ballet skills, she is an active member of
the St. Thomas More Parish Youth Group, a High
Honor Roll student and member of the National
and French Honor Societies, the Hauppauge H.S.
Dance Team and Kickline. She is also a frequent
performer in musical theatre productions at her
school. She looks forward to teaching young
dancers at Seiskaya, continuing dance in college as
a minor, and is ultimately considering a career in
medicine.
41
Lake Grove
DINER
Open 24 Hours
2211 Route 347
Phone: 631-471-5370
l
Lake Grove, NY 11755
Fax: 631-471-9474
Fully Insured
Free Estimates
ARBOR VISTA TREE SPECIALISTS
Pruning, View Work, Sun-Trimming,
Elevating, Pool Areas, Tree Surgery
Emergency Storm Damage
Large Tree Removal
Firewood - Woodchips
42
JON ROSNER
631-246-5377
Lic# 18902HI
Featured Soloist
MARIANNA SPENTZOS – AGE 14
Earl L. Vandermuelen High School
Ninth Grade
Congratulations Marianna
We are proud of you,
and we love you,
Mom, Dad
In BESFI 2012, Marianna, partnered by Mac
Gershfield, gave a stellar performance in the
Satanilla pas de Deux. The Smithtown Messenger
review proclaimed: “The pair make a strikingly
attractive couple with complementary classical
lines and an excellent sense of musicality.”
Tonight, they return with a rousing performance of
Valia Seiskaya’s Hooligans Pas de Deux. Marianna
returns as the central character in Street People, as
the Street Urchin, showcasing an assured technical
stage presence. In Seiskaya’s 2012 Nutcracker,
Marianna delighted the audience with her rendition
of the role of Clara. She also danced in Snow,
Flower, Arabian and as a Friend of Clara. A gifted
student, Marianna participates in a variety of
volunteer activities as part of the National Junior
Honor Society. She loves art and music and is an
accomplished cello player. Marianna also enjoys
sports and competes in her school’s volleyball
team. A five-time BESFI scholarship winner,
Marianna will return to BESFI 2013 in addition to
attending the Joffrey Ballet Summer Intensive on
a merit scholarship. She was also accepted to their
Pre-professional year round Trainee Program on
scholarship.
43
44
Soloist
“All the ills of mankind, all the tragic misfortunes that fill the history
books, all the political blunders, all the failures of the great leaders
have arisen merely from a lack of skill at dancing.”
Moliere
NATALIE BUTKEVICH – Age 14
Paul J. Gelinas Junior High School
Ninth Grade
Natalie, congratulations
on another great year!
Mom and Dad
Lovely Natalie will energize the stage in this
season’s BESFI as Gang Member and Rich
Brat in Street People. Known for her grace,
facile turns and exquisitely arched feet, Natalie
enthralled the audience last year as a School
Girl in Forest, and in the Zhok. She earned
roles as Fritz, Friend of Clara and Fritz,
Snowflake and Flower but was sidelined with
appendicitis just days before Seiskaya’s 2012
Nutcracker. Natalie has trained in the BESFI
summer program and Burklyn Ballet Theatre,
and has also been accepted to American
Ballet Theatre. This High Honor Roll student
has also earned top awards in Heredity and
Meteorology for Science Olympiad, at the
Rustin Invitational Tournament, Young
Artists Illustrator Challenge, and performed
in the Russian Theatre Group’s Dragonfly,
Pinocchio, Gogol’s Marriage and The
Twelve Months, as well as numerous school
musicals. In her free moments, she also draws
and plays piano and flute.
45
Available at
Stop & Shop
Specializing in
Custom Made Furs
• Cold Storage
• Clean & Glaze
• Repairs
• Remodeling
429 No. Country Rd.
(Route 25A)
St. James, NY 11780
46
Tel: (631) 584-8200
Fax: (631) 584-6527
[email protected]
Soloist
“If you are truly in love with what you do and whatever it is you want to
accomplish, that is enough to push you to do the impossible. Have confidence
in yourself, because you are your biggest obstacle.” - Misty Copeland, Ballerina
GINAMARIE CARRERO-SAGONA – Age 17
Harborfields High School
Eleventh Grade
“Stepping onto a brand-new path is difficult, but not more difficult than remaining
in a situation, which is not nurturing to the whole woman.” - Maya Angelou
Girie your spirit is enchanting and your smile
electric! You continue to melt our hearts.
Love, Your Very Proud Family
Thank You Valia, Dimitri, my Teachers
and the entire Staff at Seiskaya Ballet for
always believing in me. Love, Girie
Dancing the roles of Street Hawker and
Gang Member in Street People this evening,
Ginamarie first graced the Seiskaya stage in
Nutcracker 2012, delighting audiences with
her sparkling stage presence, dynamic jumps,
and graceful arms as Friend of Clara, Flower,
and Snowflake. A testament to the power of
dedication and discipline, Ginamarie began
studying ballet at age 12, and in a relatively
short span of years, she has grown into a
skilled and artistically gifted dancer. She has
attended summer intensive programs with
American Ballet Theatre, Joffrey Ballet, and
Lynch Ballet, and plans on attending the
BESFI Summer Intensive this year. Awarded
silver and bronze medals in 2009 and 2010 at
the Long Island Ballet Competition, Ginamarie
has performed in local productions of Sleeping
Beauty and Don Quixote. An avid reader with
a passion for learning about nutrition and wellbeing, Ginamarie knows that ballet will always
hold a special place in her heart.
47
PAUL J. TABONE
St. James Dental Care, PLLC
James F. Donahue, DDS
Michael E. Segnini, DDS
PATCHOGUE ELECTRIC MOTORS, INC.
Sales & Service
587 Lake Avenue
St. James, NY 11780
631-584-5330
New, Used, Rebuilt
Motors - Controls
stjamesdentalcare.com
75 SYCAMORE STREET
P.O. BOX 537
PATCHOGUE, N.Y. 11772
Cosmetic, Sedation, Implant,
Invisalign and Family Dentistry
(631) 475-0117
Serving the community for over 50 years
Frank Campanella
www.prestigecollision.net
Pediatric Dental, PC
and Orthodontics too!
QUALITY SATISFACTION SAFETY COMMITMENT
631.476.3792
70 Comsewogue Rd. Suite 17
Pediatric Dentistry That
Will Positively Impact Your
Child’s Life Forever
LASER DENTISTRY FOR CHILDREN
Marc Adelberg, DDS*
Ericka Montalvan, DMD*
Jeanine Pistilli, DDS*
Marc Bennet, DMD, MS*
NESCONSET:
62 LAKE AVE.. SUITE A
NESCONSET, NY 11767
631.360.PEDS (7337)
*Diplomates American Board of Pediatric Dentistry
MASSAPEQUA PARK:
East Setauket, New York 11733
Jonathan Schecter, DDS*
Jenny Abraham, DDS*
*Diplomates American Board of Orthodontics
Fax: 631.476.1332
48
1000 F PARK BLVD.
MASSAPEQUA PARK, NY 11762
516.798.1111
www.AMPediatricDental.com
Soloist
e not great because of their technique
,
Great dancers ar
they a
re
great because of their passion. - Martha Graham
We love the fun, the friendships, the
challenges, the discipline!
Thank you Valia, Dimitri,
and all our Seiskaya family!
Sydney & Gumz
SYDNEY RACHEL ESSEX – Age 15
Marymount School of New York
Ninth Grade
Ever-smiling Sydney’s skillful dancing and
balletic proportions have earned her the roles
of Street Hawker and Gang Member in Street
People. In the 2012 Seiskaya production of
Nutcracker, her lovely upper body carriage,
fine lines and radiant stage presence, were
seen in her roles of Friend of Clara and
Fritz, Arabian Soloist, Snowflake and Flower
Soloist. For 2012’s BESFI performance, she
graced the stage with her elegance as Deer
in Forest and in the ensemble Zhok. Sydney
has trained in several prestigious summer
intensives, including the Bolshoi Ballet
Academy, Joffrey Ballet, the Rock School,
and at BESFI summer intensive since 2009.
As a Butler Scholar at Marymount School of
NY she placed on the First Honor Roll and
joined her school’s Forensics Club and Model
UN. This energetic dancer also enjoys playing
piano, flute, singing, acting, summer beach
activities and biking. Sydney looks forward to
a sparkling future as a performer.
49
North Suffolk
Surgical Associates, P.C.
EDWARD B. BORDEN, M.D.
EVAN R. GELLER, M.D.
Fellows of the American College of Surgeons
50
Medical Arts Building, Suite 201
625 Belle Terre Road
Port Jefferson, N.Y. 11777
Phone: (631) 474-0707
Fax: (631) 474-4034
Soloist
EMMA NICOLE MANNINO – Age 13
Paul J. Gelinas Junior High School
Eighth Grade
Congratulations Emma!
We love you. You make us proud in all you do!
Love,
Mommy & Daddy
Emma will entertain us tonight in her roles as
Rich Brat and Gang Member in Street People.
In this year’s Nutcracker, Emma exhibited
excellence as a dancer and actress with her
stellar performance as Fritz. We saw her
strong turns, jumps and musicality in the roles
of Trepak trio, Snowflake, Flower, and Friend
of Clara and Fritz. In BESFI 2012, Emma
performed as an energetic member of the
Tree Corps of Forest, and as a hardworking
dancer in Zhok and Persian. Emma enjoys the
dramatic arts and has worked with her school’s
production of The King and I, and will be a
featured dancer in their spring production of
The Music Man. A High Honor Roll student,
Emma plans to become an occupational
therapist and has garnered an acceptance from
Joffrey Ballet. Previously she has attended
BESFI and The Rock School of Dance. Emma
enjoys baking, photography, art, ice skating
and shopping.
51
Behind the Scenes
Costume Mistress: S. DiFiore
Assistant Costume Mistress: L. Melillo
Costume Design: B. Bergeman, R. Camhi,
S. DiFiore, K. Kralik
Costume Helpers: C. Adamo, P. Cawley
Rehearsal Mistress: J. Hsu
Assistant Rehearsal Mistresses: N. DiFiore,
A. Tsivitis
Office Manager: K. Engel
Office Assistant: L. Kerr
Ticket Purveyor: K. Borch, E. Spentzos
Ad Composition: P. Adamo, J. Tsivitis
Biographies: P. Donnelly, M. Tsivitis, K. Amella,
M. Berti, M. Craddock, L. Lee, K. Pyrros
Proof Readers: C. Adamo, C. Bishop, P. Cawley,
T. Chenery, M. Craddock, K. Crews, L. Lee,
K. Lovetro, P. Miller, I. Sourikova, M. Tsivitis
Electronic Imaging: P. Adamo, P. Miller, J. Tsivitis
Photographers: S. Butkevich, P. Miller,
D. Papadakos
Ad Tracking & Accounting: K. Engel
SPONSORS OF THE ARTS
• The Berti Family
• The Broadridge Foundation
• The Butkevich Family
PATRONS OF THE ARTS
• National Grid
• Erica & Scott Kraft
• William & Maria Museler
• Susan Tuccillo
• Northrop Grumman Corp.
BENEFACTORS
• Antonio Alvarez
• Michael J. Sileo, MD
SPONSORS
• Edward J. Lipinsky, MD, PC
• Patricia Sandler
Booster
• Port Jefferson Smiles
-Dr. Karyn Halpern
Marjorie C. Ravitz, DPM, PC
MARJORIE RAVITZ, D.P.M.
Diplomate, American Board of Podiatric Surgery
Fellow, American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
LISA LaROCCA, D.P.M.
LISA SCHIRRIPA, D.P.M.
260 MIDDLE COUNTRY ROAD • SMITHTOWN, NY 11787
Tel: 631-724-1166 • Fax: 631-724-4130
www.ultimatefootcare.com
Good Luck Alyson!
Audio Consultant: A. Nittoli
Webmaster: K. Engel
For All Your Cesspool,
Sewer and Drain Needs
Program Consultant and Cover: R. Marsh
Lighting Design/ Tech Director: L. Silver
Stage Manager: L. Silver
Thanks to all our friends and supporters not listed
here who have helped to make these performances
106 and program journal possible.
To Drew,
Best Wishes
With love,
Ella
TOM EGAN
Tom Egan
Cesspool Service, Inc.
Suffolk: (631) 368-9311
Nassau: (516) 671-6797
Fax: (631) 368-0324
Free Estimates
Licensed & Insured
www.tomegancesspoolservice.com
COMPETITION BMW
ST. JAMES
CompetitionBMW.com
COMPETITION INFINITI
ST. JAMES
CompetitionInfiniti.com
MBHuntington.com
MBofSmithtown.com
COMPETTION SUBARU
ST. JAMES
CompetitionSubaru.com
The Competition Automotive Group was founded by championship racecar driver, Joe Buzzetta,
and it’s Joe’s intense competitive spirit that infuses everything we do. That’s why we compete to
provide the most attractive offers and the highest standards of service and professionalism. We even
compete to see just how much we can give back to our communities. The result? Our customers win.
Thank you to all our customers for nominating us as Best Foreign Auto Dealership on Long Island!
competitionautogroup.com
COMPETITION TOYOTA/SCION
MIDDLE ISLAND
CompetitionToyota.com
We have searched high and low and found the most
spectacular wedding locations on Long Island for you.
EXCLUSIVE ROMANTIC WEDDING LOCATIONS
SECLUDED ESTATES
OCEAN FRONT BALLROOMS, TENTS and PRIVATE HOMES
MUST SEE EXTRAORDINARY LOCATIONS!
CELEBRATIONS
Flowerfield Celebrations 199 Mills Pond Road, Saint James, NY (631) 862-0100
www.flowerfield.com
Land’s End 80 Brown’s River Road, Sayville, NY 11782 (631) 589-1888
www.landsendweddings.com
West Lake Inn 322 West Main Street, Patchogue, NY 11772 (631) 475-1300
www.wlinn.com
Apogee Events - Tribeca Rooftop 2 Desbrossess Street, Tribeca, NY (212) 625-2600
www.tribec.com
21 Main 21 Main Street, West Sayville, NY 11796 (631)-567-0900
www.21main.com
Lovin Oven Floral Designs 70 Brown’s River Road, Sayville NY (631) 244-0850
www.lovinovenfloraldesigns.com
Audrey’s Bake Shop 229-231 Montauk Highway, West Sayville, NY 11796
(631) 244-7288
www.audreybakes.com
Flowerfield, St. James