The Nevada Ballet Theatre is kicking off 2009 with an All-Balanchine Program, a full evening of works by George Balanchine, one of the 20th century’s foremost choreographers. The program will feature three ballets by Balanchine: Serenade, Concerto Barocco, and Who Cares?.

All three ballets have been staged by former New York City Ballet dancer and Balanchine Repetiteur, Sandra Jennings. Jennings joined the New York City Ballet in 1974 at the request of George Balanchine, and for the next nine years danced principal and soloist roles.

Serenade is the ultimate example of Balanchine’s affinity for Tchaikovsky. Named after its score, Tchaikovsky’s “Serenade in C Major for String Orchestra,” this work is considered a milestone in the history of dance, as well as being Balanchine’s first and most enduring American ballet.

The masterpiece Concerto Barocco is set to Bach’s “Double Violin Concerto in D Minor” in a work that reveals Balanchine’s genius for creating a physical image of music through dance. This masterpiece showcases the importance of music in Balanchine’s creative process with a masterful interplay of mood and melody. Both pieces will be accompanied by live music as Nevada Ballet Theatre welcomes musicians from the Las Vegas Philharmonic.

And for the finale, Who Cares? is Balanchine’s witty and romantic tribute to Broadway and his friend George Gershwin. Choreographed to 16 songs composed by Gershwin, including “Strike Up the Band,” “Fascinatin’ Rhythm,” and “I Got Rhythm,” among others. Balanchine used Gershwin’s songs to blend classical ballet with ‘show’ dancing, giving the audience a ballet’s perspective of musical comedy dancing of the 1920s. Who Cares? is largely seen as Balanchine’s tribute to America, with its patriotic nuances and energetic choreography.

“It is a privilege to have the works of George Balanchine in our repertoire,” says Nevada Ballet Theatre Executive Director Beth Barbre. “They challenge and inspire our dancers to reach the highest potential of our art form.”

Nevada Ballet Theatre features a 31-member company under the direction of Artistic Director James Canfield, with dancers that have been recruited from around the world, and include artists with international performing experience.

There are two chances to catch this spectacular program: an 8 p.m. performance on Friday, February 6th or a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, February 7th, both held at UNLV’s Artemus Ham Concert Hall. Ticket prices range from $35 to $75 and can be ordered by calling (702) 895-ARTS (2787) or by visiting www.nevadaballet.com.

For those interested in mixing and mingling with an exclusive VIP circle of patrons, the company will be hosting a special event entitled Dinner & The Ballet on Friday, February 6th. The event includes a special pre-performance dinner at Envy The Steakhouse at 5:30 pm. Tickets are $100 per person. For reservations, please call Jessica Erali at (702) 243-2623 ext. 222.

Nevada Ballet Theatre and Las Vegas Philharmonic present All-Balanchine Program
February 6 & 7
UNLV’s Artemus Ham Concert Hall
www.nevadaballet.com

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