Music lovers and ballet fans alike will be tapping their feet to popular music hits at the innovative BalletMet performance of American Legends: Johnny, Sammy, and Stevie opening at 8 p.m. April 23, at 8 p.m. at the Capitol Theatre, 77 S. High St.
The production runs through May 1.
BalletMet Artistic Director Gerard Charles asked famed local choreographers James Kudelka, Darrell Grand Moultrie and Maurice Hines to each choreograph an original piece for the three-part show based on the music of one famous, inspiring American musician of their choice: Kudelka chose Johnny Cash, Moultrie chose Sammy Davis, Jr. and Hines chose Stevie Wonder.
Jennifer Sciantarelli, communications manager for BalletMet, says the premise of the show is a celebration of American music.
“The three selected musicians are from a diversity of genres, but each has reached generations of fans,” she says. “This is a great opportunity for those who might not be familiar or comfortable with ballet to see it in a whole new light, as an interpretation of popular music.”
Since early March, the 25 professional BalletMet dancers and four trainees have rehearsed for the production. Several of them will be featured in multiple works, and their costumes range from country western regalia in Kudelka’s The Man in Black, to glamorous tuxedos and ball gowns in Moultrie’s Simply Sammy and vibrant jazz costumes in Hines’ Wonderful.
The imaginative mix of breathtaking choreography and nostalgic American songs will produce a hit for every kind of fan — whether a ballet enthusiast or a pop music devotee.
Sciantarelli says audiences should look forward to the artistry, entertainment and overall novel experience this ballet provides.
“We often rethink ballet,” she adds. “We are respectful of ballet’s history and look to its present and future, exploring its incredible range.”
Next season will continue the excitement with shows like 7 Deadly Sins, a new work featuring live music from Shadowbox’s house band BillWho?.
Tickets for American Legends start at $25 and are available online at www.balletmet.org.
American Legends show times are: April 23 at 8 p.m.; April 24 at 8 p.m.; April 25 at 2 p.m.; April 29 at 7:30 p.m.; April 30 at 8 p.m.; and May 1 at 8 p.m.