On October 4, The Washington Ballet in Washington, D.C., will launch its 2017–2018 season with Russian Masters. The program highlights ballets by 20th century masters, featuring Michel Fokine’s Les Sylphides, Marius Petipa’s Le Corsaire, Alexei Ratmansky’s Bolero, and George Balanchine’s Prodigal Son.
Artistic Director Julie Kent, herself a former principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre in New York City, organized the program to acknowledge “the lineage and progression of each choreographer” and his or her contribution to the art of ballet.
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“Petipa is recognized as the father of Russian classical ballet; Fokine ushered classical ballet into the 20th century through his choreography for Les Ballet Russes with a focus on dance as an ‘expression of the spirit’; Balanchine redefined the art form and created a new ‘American’ aesthetic, greatly influencing American culture through his work in Hollywood films, Broadway shows and in the founding of New York City Ballet; Ratmansky’s choreography reflects a 21st century intensity that combines his Russian heritage with a contemporary sophistication and exceptional musical sensitivity,” she said in a statement.
The Washington Ballet presents Russian Masters at the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater, featuring The Washington Ballet Orchestra, October 4–8.
The season will continue with the traditional holiday fare The Nutcracker beginning November 25; John Cranko’s Romeo & Juliet beginning February 14, 2018; Three World Premieres—featuring choreography by Clifton Brown, Gemma Bond, and Marcelo Gomes—beginning March 14, 2018; and Mixed Masters beginning April 11, 2018. The Studio Company will also perform Ballet 101 October 14 and Peter and the Wolf March 24 and 25, 2018.
For tickets and more information visit WashingtonBallet.org.
