Wendy Whelan truly a fascinating ‘Creature’

The finest dancers perform in the moment, losing themselves in music and movement.



Since the start of her career with New York City Ballet, in 1986, Wendy Whelan was one of those dancers.

“As a young kid, you have so much hope,” she says, fighting back anguished tears.

Directors Linda Saffire and Adam Schlesinger began filming at that crucial moment when an awareness of physical decline was dawning on her.

The down-to-Earth Whelan granted the filmmakers total access to her world — home, rehearsal studios, backstage, cast parties and even the operating room.

Claudia Bauer is a Bay Area freelance writer.