SAN DIEGO — The month of March is Women's History Month and females across the county are ready to 'Empower'.
In this Zevely Zone, I returned to Liberty Station to explore the Arts District. Following the success of the 2023 program, including sold-out performances, The Rosin Box Project is returning to the Light Box Theater.
The same hallowed ground where millions of naval recruits became sailors is now a different type of training site. "We are the Rosin Box Project," said Carly Topazio. Liberty Station's Arts District is where you'll find professional contemporary ballet. "Yeah, and there are a lot of us," said Carly.
Featuring three brand new creations from San Diego-based emerging female choreographers, Bethany Green, Carly, and a special commission from Guest Choreographer Cherice Barton, the program launches their most ambitious season yet.
Before the choreographers kicked off a new season, we asked them to explain how the company got its name.
"That is rosin," said Bethany while showing me the solid, sticky form of resin that comes from a tree. The dancers step into the rosin box before performing.
"We are doing some wild stuff up on our toes and if you slip off of your toes it can be a little dangerous," said Bethany.
You have to be on your toes around here.
"Ballet is for everyone," announced Carly. The price of an interview is their insistence that everyone learn first and second positions.
"Ballet really is for anyone," I said after my short lesson. "You're hired," laughed Bethany.
Since 2018, The Rosin Box Project has sold out many shows by surprising their audience. "Monumentally different in so many ways," said Carly.
"I believe art is not a luxury but a necessity. It makes us human; it makes life more beautiful."
Empower takes place March 21-24, 29, & 30 at 7:30 pm at the Light Box Theater in ARTS DISTRICT, Liberty Station.
"We have the best dancers in San Diego," said Carly who wants to offer San Diegans a heartfelt invitation to watch them dance. "It's meant to be shared. We can rehearse all year long by ourselves an create incredible stuff but if we can't share it what's the point?" said Carly.
Tickets starting at $25 are now available at therosinboxproject.com. For more information and to remain updated on upcoming TRBP performances and events, click here.