YOUNG DANCERS PERFORM HISTORIC LEGACY

In a groundbreaking first-ever collaboration, Ballet West II and Frederick Quinney Lawson’s Ballet West Academy Trainees and Professional Training Division members came together to perform George Balanchine’s Symphony in C recently. This rare performance opportunity, granted by special permission from the George Balanchine Trust and School of American Ballet, showcased the exceptional talent being developed within Ballet West’s educational programs.

“It is rare for pre-professional companies to be awarded this opportunity, and even more rare to be given permission to present not just selections or excerpts but the entire production,” notes Ballet West Artistic Director Adam Sklute. This special authorization highlights the impressive technical abilities of the young dancers under the leadership of Ballet West II Director Calvin Kitten and Ballet West Academy Director Evelyn Cisneros-Legate.

Symphony in C presents extraordinary challenges, requiring breathtaking speed, clarity, and technical precision. Originally choreographed by Balanchine for his 1947 Paris Opera debut after his friend Igor Stravinsky rediscovered George Bizet’s symphony, the ballet became an instant success. Balanchine later reproduced it for New York City Ballet in 1948, establishing it as a legendary work in the ballet repertoire.

The production features an impressive scale with 48 costumes and tutus, culminating in a spectacular finale that brings more than 50 artists on stage simultaneously. “The finale movement is a highlight of classical dance for dancers and audiences and a perfect culmination of this season,” says Sklute.

This collaboration represents not only an artistic achievement for the dancers but also demonstrates Ballet West’s commitment to providing world-class training and performance opportunities for the next generation of professional ballet dancers.