Ballet West Dancers Return to Studio for New Season
Single Tickets on Sale Sept. 2 at 10 AM, Starting at Just $35
Ballet West's company dancers are back, prepping for the new season that includes dynamic sword-fighting scenes that require in-depth training, from fatal duels in Romeo & Juliet, encounters with Captain Hook in Peter Pan, and the return of Nutcracker Prince up against the Mouse King in The Nutcracker.
Mastering the Art of Ballet Combat
Under the guidance of Sword Master Bruce Caldwell, a former principal dancer for over 20 years at Ballet West and now Rehearsal Director and Company Archivist, Ballet West dancers are learning a specialized skill that combines athletic precision with artistic expression. The training process is meticulous: dancers must master proper weapon handling, coordinate attack and defense sequences, and develop the stamina needed for extended fight scenes, all while maintaining ballet's signature lines and musicality.
"The sword-fighting has to be so carefully arranged and we have to rehearse it over and over again at very slow speed so that when the dancers hear the music up to speed, their bodies react because of muscle memory," explains Caldwell, who has documented every single sword movement in what he calls his "Bible" – a comprehensive guide to the thousands of individual engagements that make up the complete fight sequences.
To make the ballet come alive, Ballet West assembled a team back in 1976 that included Olympic fencer Stephen White, who brought cinematic quality to the intricate fight sequences. Choreographer Smuin also ensured the scenes weren't just pure fencing by weaving dance movements throughout the combat.
Male dancers execute dramatic double tours or soaring jumps with swords raised for attack, while female dancers perform pirouettes with blades overhead before striking. The result transforms realistic combat into balletic art, where swords become extensions of the dancers' natural lines.
Safety remains paramount throughout the intensive training. Each weapon is crafted from lightweight material with blunt tips and dulled edges, though Caldwell emphasizes that even these theatrical swords demand respect and precision.
Don’t Miss Your Chance
Single tickets go on sale Tuesday, September 2 at 10 AM! With many Ballet West performances selling out in recent seasons, being ready when ticket sales open is your best chance to secure prime seating for the spectacular productions in Ballet West’s upcoming season.
Why Now?
· Premium seat selection - The best orchestra and mezzanine seats go quickly, especially for popular productions like Romeo & Juliet and The Nutcracker.
· Limited availability - Each production has a limited run, and once seats are gone, they're gone
· Starting at just $35 – Tickets at this price are only available while they last, offering an unforgettable theatrical experience.
For the ultimate Ballet West experience, consider a season subscription - subscribers get first access to the best seats, save up to 40% off single-ticket prices, enjoy free exchanges, and receive priority treatment for sold-out performances.
Experience Ballet West On Tour
· New York, NY – Oct. 7-12 at The Joyce Theater (Light Rain)
· Ogden, UT – Nov. 28-30 (The Nutcracker)
Visit https://www.balletwest.org/events/on-tour for complete tour information.
Ready to Secure Your Seats?
· Online: BalletWest.org (available starting 10 AM Sept. 2)
· Phone: 801-869-6900
· Subscriptions: Available now for the best seats and savings
Join the thousands of ballet lovers who make Ballet West performances a must-see event each season. With sword-fighting spectacles, world-class artistry, and Utah's most beloved dance company, this season promises to be extraordinary - but only if you can get tickets!