 |  | | by Herbert Migdoll Christina Rocas | | | |
The Joffrey Ballet
May 12, 8p.m.
Mahalia Jackson Theater
For more than a half-century, The Joffrey Ballet has been an American ballet treasure. Last seen in New Orleans in 2006 at Dixon Hall, this sensational company of 35 dancers returns to close the main stage season in grand style bringing a little spring romance. The elegant program highlights the bold and refreshing talents of rising choreographic star Edwaard Liang with Age of Innocence, an emotionally-charged new work inspired by the social complexities of life in the era of Jane Austen. Also on the program is Jerome Robbins’ breathtaking masterwork In the Night, a passionate ballet featuring a series of three pas de deux set to the live accompaniment of Chopin Nocturnes and a brand new work Incantations from Val Caniparoli, an inventive choreographer of “uncommon ability and rare dramatic vision” (Dance Magazine).
“Ballet in the Joffrey’s hands is accessible, provocative and sublimely beautiful.” –Chicago Tribune
“Age of Innocence has all the hallmarks of a newly minted masterpiece, danced with unabated fury and virtuosity.” –Chicago Sun-Times
“One of the most lush, satisfying romantic ballets of them all is Jerome Robbins’ In the Night.” -Chicago Tribune
Free pre-performance talk with Artistic Director Ashley C. Wheater at 7:15 p.m. on Mezzanine Level M2 of the Mahalia Jackson Theater.
THE PRESS RAVES
The Joffrey Ballet opened their spring program in Chicago last week. Next up is New Orleans on May 12th! |
