Film Screening: In Balanchine's Classroom

About this event

... and discipline of George Balanchine's teaching philosophy through the lens of his students. Join us for this rare screening opportunity followed by a Q & A with the filmmaker, cohosted by Rhona Koretzky and Teresa Kennedy. Unearth the stories of Balanchine's Serenade and the 60th Anniversary of Balanchine's Midsummer Night's Dream performed during NYC Ballet's SPAC debut in 1966, with performances of both significant ballets this SPAC season! Explore images, letters and documents on loan from the Saratoga Room including items from our SPAC, Ballet and McKelvey collections. Cosponsored by The Dance Alliance. This program is inspired by our 2026 summer reading program, Unearth a Story. Please register online.

Connie Hochman was a professional ballet dancer with Philadelphia [Pennsylvania] Ballet where she performed many Balanchine masterworks. In 2007, Connie began a series of in-depth interviews with former Balanchine dancers – over 100 in all – to explore the phenomenon of Balanchine’s classroom. Why did he teach and not just choreograph? What did he teach? How did his daily class relate to his ballets? Their remembrances of his unorthodox methods and transformative teaching form the basis of IN BALANCHINE’S CLASSROOM. In addition to the oral histories, Connie launched an extensive, painstaking search for visuals that would bring the story to life. Over years, she discovered a trove of never before seen footage of Balanchine in America. With approval from The George Balanchine Trust, Connie traveled around the country and to Europe to film Balanchine’s former dancers staging his ballets, teaching classes, and passing on their knowledge to today’s generation. Photo©Donna Mueller Photography.

What to Expect
The film screening is hosted by library staff.
Participants will watch a film on a large screen.
There will be dialog between speakers following the screening.
Participation is optional.
You are welcome to listen quietly without participating.
You may arrive late or leave early if needed.
There is no expectation of prior knowledge about the topic.
The library moderates discussions to support respectful dialogue but may not endorse all viewpoints expressed.

Sensory Information
The program takes place in a shared indoor event space.
Seating is in rows, theatre style.
The room will be darkened during the screening.
Lighting is standard indoor lighting.

Sensory Supports
Listening without speaking or asking questions is always welcome.
You may step out, take breaks, or move seating as needed.
Fidget tools, notebooks, or quiet sensory items are welcome.
Closed captions, printed materials, or visual aids will be available when possible.
Additional accessibility support may be available—please ask library staff.

Saratoga Springs Public Library aims to make all programs welcoming and accessible. If you have questions or need accommodations, please contact the library at 518-584-7860 in advance.

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