Special to Independent Newsmedia
Ballet Arizona will bring three George Balanchine classics to the Phoenix stage with its annual “All Balanchine” program at Symphony Hall this spring.
Balanchine, known as The Father of American Ballet, established himself as a dance legend when he put his twist on traditional ballet standards and techniques. Before joining Ballet Arizona, Ib Andersen was mentored by the legendary choreographer during his tenure as a dancer at New York City Ballet.
“All Balanchine” will feature Ballet Arizona’s company dancers performing three of Balanchine’s finest works, “La Valse,” “Prodigal Son” and “Square Dance,” alongside live accompaniment from The Phoenix Symphony.
“All Balanchine” plays May 2-5 at Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., in Phoenix.
“La Valse” features a score by Maurice Ravel and showcases dancers waltzing in romantic-length tutus. “Prodigal Son” takes inspiration from the biblical parable in the gospel according to St. Luke that features a son who rejects his father and squanders his inheritance but returns home ashamed only to find love and forgiveness from his father.
“Square Dance” is a piece where Balanchine blended the style of American folk dance with classical ballet. Although the styles were widely different, he felt they shared common roots.
“It is truly an honor to bring Balanchine’s artistic masterpieces to the Ballet Arizona stage,” Andersen shared in a press release. “Balanchine’s impact on the ballet world is undeniable, and I’m elated to be able to bring these historic and exquisite pieces to the forefront.”
Ballet Arizona’s opening night series sponsor is F. Francis and Dionne Najafi of Pivotal Foundation. “All Balanchine” is produced in part by Bob Benson. It is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield and Dr. Eleanore Jane Rosenthal.
Ticket prices start at $35, with discounts offered for seniors, students, military, and groups.
Visit balletaz.org or call 602-381-1096.