2014-2015 Season
The Grand Rapids Ballet is back for its forty-third season with another round of classics as well as productions with a more contemporary flair.
The Nutcracker
December 12-14 & 19-21, 2014 – World Premiere
Grand Rapids number one holiday tradition will be a completely re-imagined production featuring all new sets and costumes designed by award-winning designer Chris Van Allsburg (Polar Express, Jumanji) and Eugene Lee (Wicked, Sweeney Todd), with choreography by international choreographer Val Caniparoli, this new production will encompass the beauty and magic of the beloved Nutcracker story. The Nutcracker will be performed at DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave. NW, December 12-14 & 19-21, 2014 – World Premiere
Read more about Nutcracker…
Swan Lake
February 6-8 & 13-15, 2015
Swan Lake, a timeless story of tragic love and deception. Odette, a beautiful princess, is cursed by the evil sorcerer Von Rothbart to live as a swan forever. Her spell can only be broken if a prince swears his everlasting love to her. Tchaikovsky’s magical score and the illustrious Black Swan pas de deux have made Swan Lake one of the most enduring, moving and admired classical ballets of all time. The Grand Rapids Ballet School Junior Company will also join GRB on stage to complete this epic story of romance and beauty. February 6-8 & 13-15, 2015 Peter Martin Wege Theatre
Read more about Swan Lake…
Movemedia
Program I: March 13-15, 2015
Program II: April 16-17 & 19, 2015
“MOVEMEDIA: Wide-ranging, wild, and wonderful choreography” – Jeffrey Kaczmarczyk, MLive
“It’s a unique experience for a dance writer to witness the blossoming of a dance troupe; to see its dancers and repertory evolve over time to higher levels of artistic excellence.” – Steve Sucato, Arts Air
Featuring all new local and internationally recognized choreographers, MOVEMEDIA is our contemporary dance series that presents works that merge visual elements of sets, props, costumes and lighting, framed by technology and digital media to enhance the body in space.
Read more about Movemedia…
Beethoven
May 8-10 & 15-17, 2015 – World Premiere
Beethoven, The Man and his Music: a tale of drama and conflict. This world premiere production by Mario Radacovsky (Black Swan/White Swan, Romeo & Juliet, Bolero) portrays Beethoven’s emotional journey with one of the best-known works of classical music, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 (the Choral). May 8-10 & 15-17, 2015 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre – World Premiere
In 2016, Grand Rapids Ballet will travel to Europe to premiere this innovative piece with the Ballet of the National Theatre Brno. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony is almost universally considered to be among Beethoven’s greatest works. The sound is inexhaustibly energetic, and so is the ballet.
Read more about Beethoven…
SEASON KICK-OFF PARTY
September 13, 2014
SOLD OUT! Immerse yourself in the artistry of Grand Rapids Ballet with a one-night-only special event. Enjoy a performance by Grand Rapids Ballet and indulge in food and cocktails with choreographers, dancers, directors, and more as we kick off our groundbreaking 2014-15 season! Hosted at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre on September 13, 2014.
The Nutcracker Premiere Gala
Presented by Art Van
December 11, 2014
This spectacular black tie evening will feature a formal dinner, the world premiere performance of The Nutcracker, followed by a star-studded afterglow reception. The Nutcracker Premiere Gala will be the very first opportunity to experience this reimagined beloved holiday classic designed by Chris Van Allsburg and Eugene Lee.
Proceeds will benefit Grand Rapids Ballet and Hospice of Michigan’s Pediatric Hospice Program. December 11, 2014, DeVos Place Steelcase Ballroom
Clara’s Nutcracker Party
December 14, 2014
Clara’s Nutcracker Party is the family tradition of the holiday season! Make magical Nutcracker memories with this popular annual event on December 14th. Enjoy brunch, crafts, photos with Clara and more, followed by the world premiere of The Nutcracker. December 14, Amway Grand Plaza Hotel
GRAND RAPIDS BALLET SCHOOL JUNIOR COMPANY PRESENTS
HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR October 24-26, 2014
Witches, mummies, tricks and treats – a hauntingly good time awaits at this special Halloween ballet performed by Grand Rapids Ballet School’s Junior Company and choreographed by Attila Mosolygo. Only four productions available! October 24-26, 2014 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre.
Who Am I? A Butterfly Ballet
In collaboration with Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Saturdays, March 7 and 21, 2015
A charming ballet choreographed by Attila Mosolygo and performed by members of the Grand Rapids Ballet School Junior Company. With narration, this interactive ballet tells the story of a newly emerged butterfly discovering who it is by encountering other creatures and comparing their traits. With colorful costumes and choreography, this enchanting performance will provide a unique and memorable experience for all.
In collaboration with Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
Saturdays, March 7 and 21, 2015