Ballet Arizona Presents George Balanchine's Finest This May

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 Artistic Director, Ib Andersen, will present three interpretations of Balanchine's work during All Balanchine, including one never before performed by Ballet Arizona.

Andersen is one of only a handful of artists worldwide entrusted by the Balanchine Trust to stage these masterpieces. Ballet Arizona will present five performances of All Balanchine from Thursday, May 2 through Sunday, May 5 at Symphony Hall. All Balanchine is sponsored in part by Mayo Clinic and by G.G. Gems, Inc.

Ballet Arizona will present Balanchine's Emeralds for the first time. Originally one part of a three-part Balanchine suite, Emeralds evokes the elegance and romanticism of 19th century France, presented with music by Gabriel Fauré.

Theme and Variations, presented with glorious choreography and glittering costumes, recalls the grandeur of classical ballet. An homage to Balanchine's roots, the piece evokes a great period in classical dance when the Russian ballet flourished alongside Tchaikovsky's music.

Square Dance combines 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. This light and vibrant piece is one of the most technically-demanding ballets in the Balanchine repertoire and a playful uplifting delight that will energize audiences.

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. Ballet Arizona ranks among the most significant," - Alastair Macaulay, The New York Times.

To celebrate the Ballet Arizona premiere of Emeralds this May, G.G. Gems, Inc created a one-of-a-kind designer pendant featuring two magnificent emeralds, each emerald cut. The emeralds are connected by a line of diamonds and the pendant is suspended from an 18-inch platinum chain together weighing approximately 5 carats. Designer Glenna Gibbons received her inspiration for this work of art from the romantic Parisian influence in the choreography and costumes created by the legendary George Balanchine. Tickets are $25 each or five for $100. For your chance to win, please visit balletaz.org or contact Natalie Salvione at 602.343.6522 to purchase tickets by phone. Winners do not need to be present at All Balanchine to win. Winner pays sales tax. The raffle drawing will be held on Sunday, May 5.

Ticket prices for All Balanchine start at $25, with discounts offered for seniors, students, military and groups. Tickets can be purchased by calling 602.381.1096 or visiting balletaz.org.

Ballet Arizona

Ballet Arizona, in its 33rd season, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating classical dance while creating new and innovative works. Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed choreographer Ib Andersen - a former Principal Dancer with The New York City Ballet and The Royal Danish Ballet - Ballet Arizona follows his lead to the future of dance in Arizona. The School of Ballet Arizona promotes access to the art form of ballet through dance education, with a focus on excellence in the form, directing each student to a life-long love of dance. Following this vision, Ballet Arizona connects to more than 35,000 children and families every year through its free and low cost outreach programs. For more information, visit balletaz.org.

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