6/5/16 O&A NYC IN MEMORARIUM: Remembering Loretta Abbott

 

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Loretta Abbott was one of three former Ailey principle dancers to perform in the On The Block (After Bearden). The work is a story ballet set on a Harlem neighborhood from the 1950’s through the present day. Loretta, Dudley Williams and Hope Clark shared their exstensive character development expertise with the cast. And I gained the artistic respect and friendship of Loretta and Dudley, which lasted throughout the balance of their lives. 

Loretta Abbott photo 3

On The Block (After Bearden) premiered in 2004 and featured a fifteen member cast ranging from age 14 to 65 plus. The work was based on Romare Bearden’s six panel mural, which capture the energy and pathos of a block in Harlem. Loretta’s character, Blanche, was an alcoholic with a dysfunctional family who just want to be happy.  

Loretta Abbott- On The Block Excerpt

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