All Balanchine II
Highlights
- Enjoy the work of legendary choreographer George Balanchine in part two of this captivating series.
All Balanchine II brings you the American composer’s celebrated works
George Balanchine is one of the most celebrated and influential 20th-century choreographers of ballet in America. He was the co-founder of the New York City Ballet and the Artistic Director for more than 35 years. Today, many consider him the father of American ballet. He was also co-founder of The School of American Ballet, giving the ballet industry some of the most remarkable pieces which will never be forgotten. Now you can watch a few of his most prominent works in All Balanchine II, which is playing at David H. Koch Theater in New York.
The story behind the ballets
Originally known as Variations from “Don Sebastian”, Donizetti Variations is a ballet that was devised for the NYC Ballet show called ‘Salute to Italy’. It was in celebration of the completion of 100 years since the unification of Italy. Balanchine’s work’s intent is to be wholly joyous and easy-going.
George Balanchine staged the Tschaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No.2 the first time for the American Ballet Caravan in May 1941. This piece followed a more modern style, unlike most other works done by Balanchine. It was composed under the commission of the Office of the Coordinator of Inter-American Affairs, and he wanted to present a classical ballet. But, he had no interest in reviving an existing ballet, so he turned his work into a thoroughly modern version instead. While the style was different, Balanchine was quick to ensure that the choreography was true to its roots. Discover the fantastic creations upfront by watching All Balanchine II.
The programme
The programme starts with Donizetti Variations. It is a cheerful ballet that goes on for almost half an hour. The dance is vivacious and seamlessly floats along with the equally light-hearted music by Don Sebastien. The ballet highlights a few technically demanding but much-desired roles for bravura dancers. Three additional supporting trios also play important roles in the dance. The performance will surely take your spirits high with its carefully planned presentation. The choreography is pleasant and elegant with plenty of humour. Donizetti Variations invokes the iconic Danish choreographer August Bournonville’s style, along with a touch of Italian which makes this one of the most beautiful works Balanchine has ever created.
Afterwards, Piano Concerto No.2 by Tschaikovsky follows, which is a buoyant flow of the classical method. Although the original work was prepared as an allusion to Imperial Russia, the idea didn’t strike the right chords with Balanchine as he thought it was old-fashioned. According to him, the ballet had the potential to do excellent itself, with only the score as its support. So, he made alterations to the decor and the costumes, simplifying them. The New York City Ballet’s Director of Costumes has redesigned every costume with the winter season in mind. The redesigning process received enough support from Swarovski, displaying numerous crystals from the Austrian crystal producer.
Get your tickets for All Balanchine II today and catch some of his timeless ballets.
Additional
Performance Information
Cast
New York City BalletChoreographer
George BalanchineComposed by
Peter Ilyitch Tschaikovsky and Gaetano DonizettiPerformance Times
14th and 19th May 2020: 7:30 PM
15th May 2020: 8:00 PM
17th May 2020: 3:00 PMGetting your tickets
You will receive your tickets via email shortly after booking. Please present a printout at the ticket office.
Theatre Information
The theatre has a seating capacity of 2,586. It is wheelchair accessible and has a bar and cloakroom.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets cannot be cancelled, amended or rescheduled.