October 6-8, 2023, at Peter Martin Wege Theatre

We kick off our season in October with our first in-theatre performance, Contemporary Visions. This production features four stand-alone works created by explorative and dynamic choreographers sharing stories through movement. Contemporary Visions features world-premiere choreography from Darrell Grand-Moultrie as he creates his first complete work for Grand Rapids Ballet. Darrell previously created Three Offerings for us during the virtual 20-21 season. He has an extensive resume, including creating works for Alvin Ailey, American Ballet Theater, and Beyonce. Veteran company dancer and up-and-coming choreographer Yuka Oba-Muschiana will create a full company work, with music by Franz Schubert. Berceuse, choreographed by resident choreographer Penny Saunders lends a sweeping and intricate duet in Berceuse, set to Benjamin Godard’s gorgeous piece of the same name. Berceuse, meaning ‘lullaby’ in French, explores the nuanced line between classical and contemporary movement and zooms in on a relationship, amplifying its twists and turns as it falls through time. Spirit of Women features three female solos excerpted from Donald McKayle’s repertoire that are placed together for their first collaborative presentation. As a massive figure in the modern dance world, McKayle is known for his socially conscious works expressing the human condition, specifically the African American experience. You will want to make sure you get to see this brand-new compilation of works as Grand Rapids Ballet presents Contemporary Visions.  

October 27-29, 2023 at Peter Martin Wege Theatre

Lions and Kangaroos and Swans, oh my! Don’t miss Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company as they present their first production of the 2023-24 season, Carnival of the Animals with Boléro. With a soundtrack composed by French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, you can follow along with the short stories of these beloved animals and join them in their salute to feathers, fur, and fins.

Boléro, set to the famous music of Maurice Ravel, includes bold, fierce, and fiery choreography that combines classical and contemporary movement with a Spanish influence choreographed by Junior Company Artistic Director Attila Mosolygo.