Tuesday, July 08, 2014
By Emily Kammerlohr, Academy Intern
Lillian and Clark Eselgroth are a dynamic sibling duo hailing from North Carolina! I had lots of fun filming with these two – they really love each other and it shows! Lillian, level six, is poised and professional and Clark, level five, is an absolute hoot. Click on the video below to check them out!
Clark recently attended the YAGP (Youth America Grand Prix) in Atlanta and Lillian was able to assist him back stage. She helped him tweak his performances and even did his makeup. What a good sister! Clark mentioned that her guidance was so helpful because she participated in the event last year.
Lillian was able to watch two of Clark’s pieces from backstage, but for the very last one she watched him from the audience. She made sure he knew when he heard her clapping in the audience, he would remember to smile!
“That’s the only correction I really give him” she says, “is just to smile.”
Clark couldn’t pick just one favorite ballet, so he listed a top three: Swan Lake, Le Corsaire, and La Bayadère. Listed in no particular order, of course! He likes them because the variations have lots of jumps and, as he is working to perfect his jumps this summer, he would appreciate the opportunity to do them on stage. Also, he adds with a sly smile, “They’re kind of manly.”
Lillian is working to improve her technique this summer. She is avidly perfecting her turnout, as well as her strength when executing a move. Her favorite ballet to dance is La fille mal gardée because she really enjoys its comedic elements, and her favorite ballet to watch is Romeo and Juliet – a far cry from comedy!
“We’re doing that one here next spring!” I mention.
Both of their faces immediately lit up.
“We have to see that one!” Lillian says. “I haven’t seen it in person yet, only on video. So that would be amazing.”
That’s all from the Eselgroths – but don’t worry! They will return in week five to update us on the final performance. But in the meantime, you can check back next week for more news from Natalie Payne!
Until then!
