Ballet Arizona revealed it will present The Firebird, a groundbreaking, dramatic new work from Artistic Director Ib Andersen for the anticipated upcoming 2018-2019 season. The Firebird promises to set the season afire with Andersen’s compelling original choreography, stunning new costumes, and multi-media enhanced sets. The Phoenix Symphony will provide the Igor Stravinsky score, February 2019, at Symphony Hall.

The vibrant costumes will be designed by acclaimed costume designer, Fabio Toblini, the designer behind Ballet Arizona’s original costumes for The Nutcracker. The costumes will be created and built by Ballet Arizona’s talented team of in-house seamstresses.

Michael Korsch, Ballet Arizona’s resident lighting designer, will translate Andersen’s artistic vision for the futuristic world of The Firebird by creating both lighting and set design. Korsch, who has established international renown for his lighting artistry with dance companies around the world, will explore the latest lighting and media technologies in the designs.

This enthralling and forward-thinking ballet is produced by Barbara and Donald Ottosen, long-time supporters of Ballet Arizona who are known for their strong commitment to our community through volunteerism, board service, and philanthropic investments in the arts. Barbara Ottosen currently serves as a member of Ballet Arizona’s Board of Directors. The Ottosens were a critical part of the success of Ballet Arizona’s capital campaign which established the Arizona Center for Dance, housing both Ballet Arizona and The School of Ballet Arizona.

The world premiere of Andersen’s The Firebird is based on a Russian fairytale, with a singularly original twist. This unique performance tells this classic story through the lens of the present-future, exploring themes of love, fantasy, and escapism, making it perfectly in tune with Stravinsky’s modern score.

Ballet Arizona will present five performances of The Firebird, February 2019, which will be paired with the romantic classic La Sylphide, to complete the program at Symphony Hall in Phoenix. Ticket prices start at $25, with discounts offered for seniors, students, military, and groups. For early access to tickets, subscribe to Ballet Arizona’s 2018-19 season by calling 602-381-1096 or by visiting www.balletaz.org.