George Balanchine, known as the father of American ballet, broke ground when he put his twist on traditional ballet standards and technique. Ballet Arizona’s own Ib Andersen will present three interpretations of Balanchine’s work during All Balanchine, including two with a very Arizona twist.
The heralded artistic director of Ballet Arizona will present five performances of All Balanchine from Thursday, May 11 through Sunday, May 14 at Phoenix Symphony Hall.
Ballet Arizona will present Balanchine’s Square Dance for the first time in Arizona, combining the spirit and verve of an American folk dance with the precision and techniques of classical ballet, with music by Antonio Vivaldi and Arcangelo Corelli.
Western Symphony, a joyous ballet based on traditional Western songs, will also bring the Southwestern spirit to All Balanchine. The large ensemble work features cowboys and dance hall girls with the backdrop of an Old West saloon, with music arranged by Hershey Kay.
A ballet without a storyline, Agon captures the raw spirit of Balanchine ballets in the composition for twelve dancers, showcasing the choreographer’s talent by using only the basic elements of dance; music, dancers and choreography. Igor Stravinsky’s dissonant 12-tone score, created with Balanchine’s choreography in mind, lends an avant-garde soundtrack to the piece.
Andersen’s understanding of Balanchine’s work draws respect from revered dance critics across the country.
“One of the most striking developments in modern ballet is that there is now a trans-American, even trans-global, Balanchine diaspora. BalletArizona ranks among the most significant.” – Alastair Macaulay, The New York Times.
