Internationally renowned, Chicago-based ballet company, THE JOFFREY BALLET presents a unique repertoire that encompasses masterpieces of the past and cutting-edge works of today, featuring modern re-envisionings of classic fairy tales, symphonic poems transformed to dance, and performances set to contemporary symphonies.
Heimat
Choreography: Cathy Marston | Music: Richard Wagner
A dance interpretation of the symphonic poem Seigfried Idyll, composed by Wagner in Switzerland after the birth of his son, Heimat paints a halcyon picture of a family in the Swiss countryside. Marston defines the German word “heimat” as the feeling of home, which is not necessarily where one lives or was born. Rather, it’s a term that suggests a place of spiritual and creative familiarity. Marston feels that “heimat” is a tender description of her personal feelings about Chicago and The Joffrey Ballet.
Under the Trees’ Voices
Choreography: Nicolas Blanc | Music: Ezio Bosso
Under the Trees’ Voices examines the persistence of community and connection in the age of distance and isolation. Set to Bosso’s Symphony No. 2, Blanc’s choreography arose from his observations of the nuances of people’s temperaments during the spring of 2020 as the weather became warmer and the chill of pandemic restrictions thawed. In four distinct sections, it imagines a future of hope and unity, reminding us that we are better together than alone.
Princess and the Pea
Choreography: Dani Rowe | Music: Jim Stephenson
From choreographic storyteller Dani Rowe comes a whimsical and comical ballet inspired by the timeless tale of "The Princess and the Pea." This modern re-envisioning has a dual nature - a surface of enchantment and humor, underpinned with universal themes of justice and freedom. When her parents are unjustly “canned and banned” in the authoritarian world of Pea Town, young Penelopea embarks on a daring quest for freedom and justice. Armed with a magical heirloom seed packet and her unexpected ally Tom, a life-sized heirloom tomato, Penelopea embarks on a daring journey to win an annual Mattress Tournament to win back her parents’ freedom. As she battles the oppressive Master Pea, Penelopea discovers the power of individuality and growth, leading to a revolution that transforms Pea Town into something no one could have ever expected.
Role: Audio 1