Professional Performing Arts in Woodinville

This past week I was out with a few of my friends getting the word out about a gathering of Christians, Generations-Woodinville, for contemporary praise and growing as disciples, followers of Jesus. We passed out informative fliers for those who might be interested. Along with these invitations, we included information about a special event that will happen in Woodinville this coming Sunday, March 25 at the Y at the Carol Edwards Center in downtown Woodinville. will be performing at 11 a.m. (at Generations-Woodinville morning service) and a special matinee for the public at 3 p.m.  It's a joy to be able to make this available to Woodinville area residence for no charge.

Nobody we talked with were belligerent or rude, and were actually quite nice. It was not a surprise to me, however, that most people were more interested in the ballet performance than our regular Christian gathering. We expected that, but wanted people to know of our existence, and that we love to pray for people if they have needs in their lives. 

Honestly, I would be the same. Letting people know about your existence can be interpreted as "soliciting", even when the motive is to let people know we are a growing, and caring part of the community - and - might just be someone's "cup of tea" to help them in their journey, growing in the knowledge of God's love. 

Nevertheless, I was excited to see how positively people responded to knowing that a ballet troupe of the professional calibre of "PARADOSI" would be in Woodinville and so accessible. Although these mostly women dancers are from all over the country, their studio and school is nearby in Tacoma. Tennille and Joel Carver are the directors of Paradosi, and Tennille is a local girl, having studied at Chrysalis, right here in Woodinville, before being part of professional dance troupes. Tennille flourished both in the Seattle area and Missouri as a dancer and an instructor. So, it's always special for her to bring her dancers with her to Woodinville. 

I am not particularly a ballet fan. But I must say, this group is special. They have a genuine joy and love for their art, performing with a power, an intensity and presence that is deeply moving. I was surprised to have been moved to tears at the beauty and power of their performance, mixed with multi-media and great musical pieces, each time I have seen them - six times now. 

If you live within driving distance of Woodinville, do yourself a favor and catch the performance of "A Walk with Paul" this coming Sunday at the Carol Edwards Center. If you have daughters that love dance, do THEM a favor and bring them to see how it is possible, with dedication and some skill, to express the beauty and truth of a story. "A Walk with Paul" is PARADOSI's interpretation of the love and power of God's grace targeting every person, symbolized by the changed life of Saul/Paul from the New Testament. The artistry of the group's expression of this true-life event is unforgettable.Check Paradosi Ballet out at paradosiballetcompany.com.