Pennsylvania Ballet

Pennsylvania Ballet is a renowned professional ballet company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, founded by Barbara Weisberger in 1963. The company has a rich history, having performed with notable orchestras such as the Philadelphia Orchestra and Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra. Over the years, Pennsylvania Ballet has collaborated with esteemed choreographers like George Balanchine, Jerome Robbins, and Twyla Tharp. The company has also worked with famous dancers, including Mikhail Baryshnikov, Gelsey Kirkland, and Suzanne Farrell.

● History

The company's history began with its founding by Barbara Weisberger in 1963, with the goal of bringing professional ballet to Philadelphia. In its early years, the company performed at various venues, including the Academy of Music and the Philadelphia Civic Center. The company's first performance was The Nutcracker, choreographed by George Balanchine, with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Throughout its history, the company has been influenced by notable ballet companies, such as the New York City Ballet and the American Ballet Theatre. The company has also been shaped by the work of famous choreographers, including Leonide Massine and Antony Tudor.

● Artistic Directors

The company has had several artistic directors throughout its history, including Barbara Weisberger, John Taras, and Robert Weiss. Each artistic director has brought their unique vision to the company, shaping its repertoire and style. The current artistic director is Angel Corella, a former principal dancer with the American Ballet Theatre. Under Angel Corella's leadership, the company has continued to perform a wide range of ballets, including works by William Forsythe, Jiri Kylian, and Christopher Wheeldon. The company has also collaborated with other notable artistic directors, such as Kevin McKenzie and Helgi Tomasson.

● Company Structure

The company is composed of a diverse group of dancers, including principal dancers, soloists, and corps de ballet members. The company also has a strong apprentice program, which provides training and performance opportunities for young dancers. The company is supported by a team of staff members, including rehearsal directors, ballet masters, and costume designers. The company has also worked with notable costume designers, such as Santo Loquasto and William Ivey Long. The company's music director is Beatrice Jona Affron, who has worked with numerous orchestras, including the Philadelphia Orchestra and the New York City Opera.

● Repertoire

The company's repertoire includes a wide range of ballets, from classic works like Swan Lake and Giselle to modern pieces by choreographers like Twyla Tharp and Paul Taylor. The company has also performed ballets by notable choreographers, such as George Balanchine's Serenade and Jerome Robbins' The Cage. The company's repertoire also includes works by choreographers like Alvin Ailey and Lar Lubovitch. The company has performed at various festivals, including the Jacob's Pillow Dance Festival and the Vail International Dance Festival.

● Education and Community Outreach

The company is committed to education and community outreach, offering a range of programs and services to promote ballet and dance in the Philadelphia area. The company's school offers classes for students of all ages and levels, from ballet basics to advanced technique classes. The company also offers outreach programs, including masterclasses and workshops, in partnership with organizations like the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts. The company has also collaborated with other educational institutions, such as the University of the Arts and the Curtis Institute of Music.

● Performances and Tours

The company performs regularly at the Academy of Music and the Merriam Theater in Philadelphia, as well as on tour at venues like the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. and the David H. Koch Theater in New York City. The company has also performed at festivals like the Spoleto Festival USA and the Aspen Music Festival and School. The company has toured internationally, performing in countries like Canada, Mexico, and China. The company has also collaborated with other notable companys, such as the National Ballet of Canada and the Royal Ballet. Category:Ballet companies in the United States