Under the artistic leadership of Ballet BC Artistic Director Emily Molnar, PROGRAM 2 will be a Ballet BC repertoire first—a fresh retelling of the classic Romeo and Juliet by rising French star and returning choreographer, Medhi Walerski.
This story has inspired many an artist with its tragic tale of “star-crossed lovers”. Compelling in its timelessness, the work captures audiences with its deeply human story and enduring themes of love, fate and family. Reflecting on the divisions that persist in today’s world, Ballet BC’s World Premiere will offer a thought-provoking contemporary take of the classic that profoundly resonates today.
Ballet BC is thrilled to have this iconic story expertly crafted by Medhi Walerski, one of the most original voices in international dance today. Set to Sergei Prokofiev’s original score, this full-length commission showcases Walerski’s signature style that brings together dazzling landscapes woven with poetic, unpredictable and complex imagery. Walerski brings a contemporary familiarity to the story of Romeo and Juliet—“the vision of love that Shakespeare gave us in this master work is very precious. It is like holding a jewel in your hand that needs to be protected. Story is important to us as human beings—it connects us to each other, the past, enriches our present and moves us toward the future.” —Medhi Walerski
Walerski’s previous creations for Ballet BC, Petite Cérémonie, Preludeand Natus, were instant successes with audiences in Vancouver and on tour. Romeo and Juliet will be Walerski’s second full-evening commission for Ballet BC, and his first full-length narrative work. This innovative reworking of the full-length classic is a collaboration between Dutch set and lighting designer Theun Mosk, an international team of collaborators and the Arts Umbrella Graduate Dance Program.
Romeo and Juliet plays the Queen Elizabeth Theatre at 8:00pm February 22-24, with a special Preview on February 21 at 8pm. Tickets range from $35.00 to $100.00 (plus service charges) and can be purchased through Ticketmaster online at ticketmaster.ca or 1-855-985-2787 (855-985-ARTS).
Ballet BC Dancers Emily Chessa and Brandon Alley. Photo by Cindi Wicklund
