Throwback Thursday

Every Thursday we pull a photo from our archives and share it with one of our ABT dancers. You never know what stories may come from a single snapshot!

Luigi Crispino
ABT Corps de Ballet
Joined ABT as Apprentice in 2017

“This photo brings so many beautiful memories to my mind! I was an ABT JKO School student at the time and I was performing the Jean de Brienne variation from Raymonda Pas de Dix. In this picture I am doing the tendu just before the last pirouette – it is a very demanding variation (and you can see in my big smile that I was pretty satisfied and almost relieved by that point). I still remember all the amazing advice I got from Franco De Vita, Raymond Lukens, Martine van Hamel and Mikhail Ilyin, and how much fun the process was that led me there.

That was also my first performance with the ABT family and my first year living in New York City. Moving to America from Italy was very hard, especially since my family couldn’t be there for me when you need them. But the JKO School became my family. Looking back, I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to be in such a special environment. I’m very thankful for the training and everything that I’ve learned. My time as a JKO School student was so precious and all of those memories will forever be in my heart.

And last but not least, let’s talk about that costume: I was wearing the original costume from 1980 when ABT premiered Raymonda, staged by Mikhail Baryshnikov. I felt very special; I was wearing a beautiful piece of both art and history.

Positivity, hard work and passion will make your dreams come true. Now it’s your turn ABTKids! Keep dancing and, most importantly, keep smiling!”

View More Photos of Luigi!

Writing Prompt

Write about a time when you were on your own and away from your family or support network and found success.

Funtime Friday

ABT Dance Libs: La Bayadère

Provide the words below and create your own version of the La Bayadère story!