George Balanchine’s renown as the father of American Ballet is on full display in this trio of technically demanding neoclassical ballets.
Symphony in C, composed by 17-year-old Georges Bizet, is a grand 4-movement masterpiece featuring over 50 dancers in a vivacious exhibition of athleticism and grace. The hallmark of this ballet is a spectacular finale utilizing the entire cast in an impressive demonstration of Balanchine’s signature use of precision and space.
Likewise, Mozart’s Divertimento No. 15 tantalizes viewers with an asymmetrical cast (5 featured female dancers to 3 featured male dancers) who carve an intricate yet lively pattern of pairings and re-pairings that please the eye. The gleaming, crystalline ballet is danced to one of Mozart’s most impressive musical achievements.
To close, the buoyant and brazen Stars and Stripes is a rousing tribute to Americana, set to the music of John Philip Sousa. Replete with marches, salutes, high kicks and struts, this ballet swells with pure, vibrant patriotism that dazzles and delights.