Ballet celebrates Edith Piaf’s life

Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada will explore the authentic and life inspired songs of the great Edith Piaf.

Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada’s Piaf ballet will perform at the ACT in Maple Ridge on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada’s Piaf ballet will perform at the ACT in Maple Ridge on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada’s Piaf ballet will celebrate one of France’s most renowned stars as they perform at the ACT in Maple Ridge on Sunday, Feb. 22 at 7:30 p.m.

Artistic director Igor Dobrovolskiy and the exceptional dancers of Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada will explore a life shrouded in mystery, love and tragedy reflected in the authentic and life inspired songs of the great Edith Piaf.

The musical score features Edith Piaf’s inimitable voice and music, interspersed with classical selections from Fauré, Chopin, and others. Iconic songs include La Vie en rose, Non, je ne regrette rien, and L’Hymne à l’amour.

The title role will be danced by Olga Petiteau of Paris, France.

“Edith Piaf was known as ‘The Little Sparrow’ because she was only 4’8” tall, yet she had an astonishing voice that soared to incredible highs and sorrowful lows,” says Dobrovolskiy. “Her life was fraught with tragedy and loss, and it is a privilege for Atlantic Ballet Theatre to interpret her dramatic life story through dance.”

Piaf is one of France’s most legendary icons and international stars.

The famous cabaret singer was abandoned by her mother at birth, raised in a brothel by her grandmother, and encouraged to sing by her father, a street acrobat from Normandy.

Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada is a neo-classical ballet company dedicated to performing original works by choreographer and artistic director, Dobrovolskiy.

Founded in 2001, the company pursues a continuous creative process through collaboration with like-minded artists attracted by the vision and artistic philosophy of its artistic director.

Atlantic Ballet has been an international touring company since 2002, and the company’s reputation for powerful dance has inspired audiences of every age, says Dobrovolskiy.

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