First Look
First Look targets Jr. High and High school students, and educators, offering them a unique sneak peek into Ballet West's ongoing productions. Prior to the public opening, students attend dress rehearsals, gaining insights into ballet's inner workings.
The program aims to familiarize students with ballet's evolution by showcasing complete ballets and repertory programs. Ballet West grants students an exclusive view of a performance's final dress rehearsal. A member of the Ballet West education staff lead pre-presentation discussions and intermission chats which enable students to recognize audience attributes, evaluate authenticity, substance and excellence, and engage in aesthetic activities.
Digital study guides align with the content of shorter school-hour performances, enriching students' experience. Overall, First Look enhances students' understanding of ballet, fostering aesthetic appreciation and personal growth through intimate exposure to the art form's intricacies.
We have the ability to accept groups as small as one or two students, teachers attending on their own, or large groups attending together. Parent chaperones are welcome as well. We’re very flexible. This must be arranged through the teacher of any particular group. Please share this opportunity with other faculty members who may be interested in taking advantage of this unique event for their students and themselves.
- All Performances are at the Jesse Quinney Eccles Capitol Theater, 50 West 200 South, SLC, Utah
- Reserve early – seating is limited. To reserve seats or for questions, please contact us at 801-869-6911 or at education@balletwest.org
- Groups of 40 or more may request a student/teacher workshop to supplement their attendance at a Ballet West First Look presentation. Availability is limited.
We would love to hear from you with any questions or comments regarding our programs, or for information, you can reach us at education@balletwest.org or by calling us at 801-869-6911.
The opportunity to contribute amplifies the community's role in nurturing positive change and sustaining our transformative experiences. Ballet West's community programming not only celebrates the art of ballet but also resonates with its commitment to creating meaningful connections and inspiring progress in all participants. To make a tax-deductible contribution in support of First Look and other Ballet West education and outreach programs, visit our donation page!
BALLET WEST FIRST LOOK PRESENTATIONS 2026-2027
DRACULA
Back by popular demand! This dramatic ballet telling, inspired by Bram Stoker’s legendary novel, takes audiences on a journey through decrepit castles to a peasant village terrorized by an evil being. This spellbinding piece of theater is a captivating fusion of Gothic horror in the manner of old Hollywood, lighthearted comedy and exciting, beautiful, classical ballet. Featuring exuberant dancing, thrilling flying effects, and explosive theatrical pyrotechnics.
Oct 22, 2026 Thurs. 6:30 PM
ROLLING WITH THE STONES
Cutting-edge contemporary ballet! Featuring a newly-expanded Elis of Ballet West Soloist Vinicius Lima’s charming and playful romp to the legendary music of Brazilian singer Elis Regina; the Ballet West premiere of Dancing on the Front Porch of Heaven from Ulysses Dove, the creator of Red Angels, with this moving elegy exploring themes of love, loss, and isolation to the heart-stopping music of Arvo Pärt; and the hip, elegant, and witty Rooster, set to a fusion of Rolling Stones classics.
Nov 5, 2026 Thur. 6:30 PM
DON QUIXOTE
Dynamic Spanish Spectacle! Seville’s vibrant streets come to life in ballet’s greatest comedic masterpiece. Follow the adventures of the spirited Kitri and her clever suitor Basilio as they navigate love and mischief, while the idealistic Don dreams of his perfect world. This must see tour de force revival features breathtaking performances with exciting classical dancing, hilarious, multi-faceted characters, and the athleticism of an all-male ensemble, whose electrifying flamenco segment is performed to nothing but the primal rhythm of stomping feet. and clapping hands!
Feb 11, 2027 Thurs. 6:30 PM
THE GLASS SLIPPER
Fairy Tale Magic! As performed by Ballet West II and members of the Frederick Quinney Lawson Ballet West Academy, this enchanting family-friendly production showcases the next generation of Ballet West’s younger artists, bringing the beloved Cinderella story to the stage in just over an hour, with one intermission, and a narration to tell the tale. This is a perfect introduction for children to the magic of the live theater.
April 1, 2027 Thur. 6:00 PM
CARMINA BURANA
A Celebration of Pure Dance and Music! George Balanchine’s Symphony in C, set to Georges Bizet’s effervescent Symphony No. 1 in C major, is a must-see work of neoclassical ballet. Often described as “seeing the music, hearing the dance,” this vibrant masterpiece has four movements, each featuring a different principal ballerina, cavalier, demi-soloist couples, and a full corps de ballet. The performance culminates with a breathtaking finale, where all 52 dancers take to the stage in a stunning, crystal-palace array of white tutus.
April 8, 2027 Thur. 6:30 PM
*All performances are subject to change
**Dracula: Artists of Ballet West, Rolling With The Stones: Artists of Ballet West, The Nutcracker: Corps Artist Jonas Malinka-Thompson, Don Quixote: Artists of Ballet West, The Glass Slipper: Artist of Ballet West II, Symphony In C: Principle Artists Emily Adams & Hadriel Diniz, Works From Within: Principle Artists Katlyn Addison, David Huffmire, Soloist Vinicus Lima, Photography by Beau Pearson