Ep 4. Balanchine

American Masters season 18 episode 4 is titled "Balanchine" and focuses on the life and career of the legendary choreographer George Balanchine. Balanchine was a Russian-born dancer and choreographer who founded the New York City Ballet and is considered one of the most influential figures in the history of ballet.

The episode begins by exploring Balanchine's early life in Russia, where he was trained as a dancer and choreographer. Balanchine's love for dance and his innovative choreography quickly caught the attention of the ballet world, and he was soon invited to work with some of the most prestigious ballet companies in the world.

The episode then explores Balanchine's move to the United States, where he founded the New York City Ballet. Balanchine's choreography was groundbreaking and helped to establish a new style of ballet that emphasized athleticism and modernism over the traditional, classical forms.

The episode delves into Balanchine's personal life, including his relationships with some of the most famous dancers of the day, such as Suzanne Farrell and Maria Tallchief. Balanchine was known for his intense and often controversial relationships with his dancers, and the episode explores how his personal life and artistic vision informed each other.

The episode also explores Balanchine's impact on the wider cultural landscape of America. Balanchine's work was highly influential in the world of fashion, film, and popular culture, and the episode shows how his innovations in dance helped to shape the broader artistic movement of the 20th century.

Throughout the episode, audiences are treated to rare archival footage and interviews with some of Balanchine's most famous collaborators and admirers. The episode features interviews with famous dancers such as Patricia McBride and Peter Martins, as well as insights from historians and critics who offer their perspective on the enduring legacy of Balanchine's work.

Overall, American Masters season 18 episode 4 provides a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of one of the most influential figures in the history of ballet. The episode offers an illuminating portrait of George Balanchine's artistic vision, personal life, and impact on the wider cultural landscape of America, making it a must-see for anyone interested in dance, art, or history.