REVIEW: Joffrey Ballet’s Chicago Premiere of The Little Mermaid April 19–April 30, 2023

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THE JOFFREY BALLET MOUNTS CHICAGO PREMIERE OF JOHN NEUMEIER’S HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL THE LITTLE MERMAID

With sets and costumes of the grandest scale, critically acclaimed production is the largest-ever in Joffrey’s history

Photo Credit: Todd Rosenberg

Guest Review 

by Flo Mano

This is not your ordinary/ common/ well known Disneyfied Little Mermaid. In John Neumeier’s unique interpretation of the classic Hans Christian Andersen’s tale, he weaves a complex and intense portrayal of unrequited love and the resilience of the human spirit.

With choreography, sets, costumes, and lighting, all by Neumeier, this ballet is as much theater as it is dance! John Neumeier is truly a jack of all trades and choreographer extraordinaire!

In the opening scene we see the deck of a ship with a giant, blue neon line spanning the stage, resembling the shape of waves below it. As the ship’s Captain, Edvard (Dylan Gutierrez) and his guests celebrate his wedding day, the Poet (Stefan Goncalvez), dressed in a black top hat and a redingote wipes away a tear. As the music begins, he slowly delves in the deep-blue ocean, and thus begins a Mysterious, magical, beauty of a production, revealing the depths of the choreographer’s imagination. 

We enter a sapphire-serene-swirling-smooth underwater wondrous world! The Mermaid’s wide-legged silk pants added fluidity to her ethereal movements, fanning out like fins when she is held aloft to “swim.”

This Mermaid, danced with grace and emotion by (Victoria Jaiani), falls for the Prince (Gutierrez) and trades her fins for feet, with the help of the very forceful and passionate Sea Witch (Yoshihisa Arai), who flies like a Japanese Samurai.

Neumeier elevates a fantasy into a sophisticated portrayal of psychological transformation. The stylised, dramatic, nonverbal format demands the dancers venture into deeply emotional terrain in order to convey the ballet’s full message.

Requiring strong athleticism by the entire company, the choregraphy is at times very modern and frantic. The sailors were amazing! 

The Mermaid is treated poorly on land and rejected by the prince who marries a princess (Anais Bueno) instead. As Ariel is treading on an emotionally disturbing path, we see the world through her eyes. She’s ultimately driven to madness by the nightmarish atmosphere, feeling trapped and claustrophobic by ceilings and walls.

The earth world, which she so desired, turns out to be a poor tradeoff for her prior life. After re-creating herself, at the cost of extreme personal pain, she discovers life as a human has sharp edges, and is very difficult. We visibly see the physical, searing pain she endures, as she walks on the feet she so wanted. 

At last the poet arrives to pick up the pieces, and lamenting alongside the Mermaid, he sheds his clothes, and bare chested they dance in a passionate and uplifting last pas de deux uniting their minds and souls.

The score by Lera Auerbach sets the scenes, evoking both atmosphere and the emotional tone/discomfort of being out of one’s element. 

This fable about personal sacrifice, unconditional love, and failures, ultimately leads not to tragedy, but to endurance in an unexpected togetherness.

Photo Credit: Kiran West

This visually stunning ballet is a force of wordless emotions and a must see. 

Flo Mano is a CPS elementary teacher/librarian, hairdresser, and theater/film fanatic who catches hundreds of Chicago shows annually. She volunteers at numerous film venues and theaters.

The Joffrey Ballet closes its 67th season with the long-awaited Chicago premiere of John Neumeier’s beautifully haunting interpretation of The Little Mermaid. 

Photo Credit: Todd Rosenberg

A gripping tableau of shadows and colors, Neumeier’s world-renowned production of Hans Christian Andersen’s 1837 tragic folktale follows the tormented mermaid heroine on a journey between the divergent worlds of land and sea—one utterly complex, the other magnificently serene. With sets and costumes of the grandest scale, this heartbreaking tragedy, based on Andersen’s original and complex themes, will mark the largest production ever mounted by The Joffrey Ballet. The Little Mermaid will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in ten performances only, from April 19–April 30, 2023.

In The Little Mermaid, Milwaukee-born, Hamburg Ballet Director and Chief Choreographer John Neumeier blends dance, dramatic storytelling, and spectacle into a stunning interpretation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fable. The story follows a mermaid who saves a ship’s captain--a Prince--from drowning after a terrible storm at sea. Awakening to a group of onlookers on shore, the Prince mistakes his savior for a human Princess for whom he falls instantly in love. Begging for help from the underwater Sea Witch, the mermaid receives a human body with two legs—but as she watches the Prince’s love for the Princess grow, she suffers the pain of human disappointment and the heartbreak of unrequited love.

Neumeier created The Little Mermaid for the Royal Danish Ballet in 2005 to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Andersen’s birth. Received with critical acclaim, the cautionary tale has since toured with premier ballet companies around the globe. The Little Mermaid is Neumeier’s tour de force, featuring his original choreography, sets, and costumes that come together to create a ballet that is as much theater as it is dance.

"John Neumeier's adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's The Little Mermaid is a poignant depiction of the complexity of unrequited love and unwavering resilience," says The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE. "At its heart, the story proves the strength of the spirit, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. The production's choreography and stage design beautifully illustrate the contrasts between land and sea, and hope and despair. Neumeier's emotional journey reminds us that no matter how fervent, and although sometimes unreturned, love is a powerful force which transforms us into our best selves."

President and CEO Greg Cameron adds, "Marking the largest production ever mounted by the Joffrey, the long-anticipated Chicago premiere of The Little Mermaid closes out an extraordinary season of milestones, including the record-breaking remount of Anna Karenina, which became the highest-grossing non-Nutcracker production in the Joffrey's history. This season's closer is a stunning interpretation, bringing to life one of Hans Christian Andersen's most revered tales."

The Little Mermaid features an original score by Lera Auerbach that combines moody harmonies with the use of the theremin to convey the beautiful, otherworldly voice of the mermaid. Live music will be performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.

Ticket Information

The Joffrey Ballet presents John Neumeier’s The Little Mermaid from Wednesday, April 19–Sunday, April 30, 2023 at the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive. The full schedule is as follows: Wednesday, April 19 at 7:30 PM; Friday, April 21 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, April 22 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM; Sunday, April 23 at 2:00 PM; Thursday, April 27 at 7:30 PM; Friday, April 28 at 7:30 PM; Saturday, April 29 at 2:00 PM and 7:30 PM; and Sunday, April 30 at 2:00 PM.

Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. and by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at joffrey.org.

Photo Credit: Kiran West

About The Joffrey Ballet

The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for more than 60 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works. 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2022–2023 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Anne L. Kaplan, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, and Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.

Special thanks to The Little Mermaid Major Production Sponsor Ethel & Bill Gofen, and Production Sponsors Pamela Crutchfield, Jeanette Stevens, and Ron & Ann Waters.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Photo Credit: Kiran West

REVIEW: YURI POSSOKHOV’S ANNA KARENINA Via The Joffrey Ballet February 15-26, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

THE JOFFREY BALLET REMOUNTS YURI POSSOKHOV’S BLOCKBUSTER 

ANNA KARENINA

World premiere in 2019 praised for its original score and breathtaking, cinematic production by all-star creative team

REVIEW:

By Catherine Hellmann, Guest Critic 

Posted on the Joffrey’s Website:

“Potential Protest Demonstration 

The Joffrey supports the right to freedom of expression.

Please be aware that there is a possibility of demonstrators protesting the Russian invasion of Ukraine in the vicinity of the Lyric Opera House.”

Indeed, audience members approaching the Lyric Opera on Wednesday night February 15 were greeted by peaceful protestors bearing signs, the now-familiar yellow and blue flags of Ukraine, and even a couple effigies criticizing Russia. The Joffrey Ballet’s decision to stage Anna Karenina by Russian author Leo Tolstoy was viewed as a celebration of Russian culture while Ukraine is being decimated by the Russian invasion. 

The Joffrey Ballet is to be commended for how they handled the possibly inflammatory situation. An announcement was made before the show expressing support for the country of Ukraine. Lights projected on the Lyric stage were yellow and blue. The Lyric Opera Orchestra played a beautiful symphonic piece by a Ukrainian composer to honor the Ukrainian people. 

Despite politics, art endures. 

Victoria Jaiani Alberto Velazquez Anais Bueno ensemble 

Anna Karenina 

All Production Photos by Cheryl Mann 

The ballet, choreographed by Yuri Possokhov, was stunning. The costumes by Tom Pye were beautiful. The projections by Finn Ross also added a lot of context to the production. The results are magical. 

Edson Barbosa

The tragic story of Anna and her lover, Count Vronsky, cannot end happily. Young Princess Kitty loves Vronsky, but he is obviously smitten by Anna. Family friend Constantine Levin does love Kitty, but she wants the emotionally unavailable Vronsky. (At this point, I am reminded of a love triangle that currently exists among the high school teenagers I teach, and my head hurts…)  Anna is already married to Alexey Karenin with whom she shares a son. She and Vronsky run away to Italy where Anna gets very ill.  Her husband is not allowing her to see their son anymore. Kitty accepts Levin’s latest proposal, so there is that. Anna throws herself (spoiler of a novel written in 1878!) in front of a train. What a drama queen…

Christine Rocas and Dylan Gutierrez

My favorite quote of the evening was my friend’s mother-in-law who observed, on all the movement happening in the bed at one point,”Oh, I know what was going on there.”   ;-)

The leads were spectacular. Anna Karenina was beautifully played by Victoria Jaiani. The rejected-but-gorgeous Alexey Karenin was danced by Dylan Gutierrez. Adorable and hot Alberto Velazquez was Alexey Vronsky.  Anais Bueno was a lovely Kitty.  Konstatin Levin was danced by Yoshihisa Arai, who was also the Nutcracker Prince we saw in December. I just love the diverse roster of dancers assembled by Joffrey from all over the world. It makes me so happy to see this talented assembly of artists. 

Christine Rocas and Ensemble

Politics may divide us, unfortunately. 

But art and beauty bring us together.

Catherine Hellmann is a teacher, mom, and art lover. She visited Russia in 2003 through an educator program and loved the people and culture in Vyborg, Moscow, and St. Petersburg. Russia has a very special place in her heart. The current events in Ukraine are infuriating and sorrowful.  

This winter, The Joffrey Ballet remounts Yuri Possokhov’s blockbuster Anna Karenina for the first time since its crowd-pleasing world premiere in 2019. Based on the novel by Leo Tolstoy, Possokhov’s immersive adaptation—winner of the 2019 “Oscars of Dance” Benois de la Danse International Prize for Best Choreography—features an original composition by award-winning composer Ilya Demutsky, costumes and sets by Emmy Award-winning designer Tom Pye, and lighting by famed designer David Finn. Anna Karenina will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in ten performances only, from February 15-26, 2023.

Alberto Velazquez and ensemble

Love is all-consuming for the beautiful but married Anna, who in the pursuit of passion, finds herself caught in a life-changing affair with the dashing Count Vronsky. Set in the late 19th century, Tolstoy’s classic shows the triumph of romance, family, and faith against a backdrop of fraught political and social transformation. 

Alberto Velazquez and ensemble

Victoria Jaiani Alberto Velazquez 

With countless adaptations across ballet, theatre, opera, and film, Anna Karenina is often considered the earliest example of modernist literature and one of the greatest works of literature in history. Possokhov’s immersive adaptation updates the timeless story for contemporary audiences with its captivating choreography, stunning costume design, and cinematic storytelling that unravels the profound power, passion, and desire that shapes the 19th century novel.

The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director of The Joffrey Ballet Ashley Wheater MBE says, “Anna Karenina is a powerful universal love story animated by the highs and lows of human emotion. I am especially grateful to partner again with esteemed choreographer Yuri Possokhov to remount a multi-dimensional production that touched audiences across Chicago and beyond with its immersive artistry.” 

Christine Rocas and Dylan Gutierrez

The Joffrey Ballet President and CEO Greg Cameron adds, "The 2022-23 season represents the breadth of Joffrey's artistry, from the original work presented by Chanel DaSilva in Beyond Borders, to the modern masterpiece that is Christopher Wheeldon's The Nutcracker, to the remount of Yuri Possokhov's blockbuster Anna Karenina--an all-time classic set to an original score. Following a record-breaking return to pre-pandemic attendance with The Nutcracker, we look forward to welcoming audiences back to the iconic Lyric Opera House this winter. Not only will guests experience Anna Karenina's story that has transcended the ages; they will witness the transformative power and innovation on which the Joffrey was founded."

Known for his visceral and expressive style, Possokhov has created groundbreaking new works around the globe. A frequent guest artist with The Joffrey Ballet, Possokhov is internationally recognized for transforming iconic literature into inventive, emotionally driven story ballets. Possokhov choreographed the world premiere adaptation of Anna Karenina for The Joffrey Ballet in 2019 to critical acclaim. In addition to Anna Karenina, Possokhov’s collaborations with The Joffrey Ballet include Bells (2014), The Miraculous Mandarin (2017), and Don Quixote (2011, 2022).

Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez

Anna Karenina features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet. 

Special thanks to Presenting and Commissioning Sponsor Mr. and Mrs. Joel V. Williamson, Major and Commissioning Sponsor Mary Jo and Doug Basler, and Major Sponsor The Women’s Board of The Joffrey Ballet.

Victoria Jaiani 

Ticket information

The Joffrey Ballet performs Anna Karenina from Wednesday, February 15 to Sunday, February 26, 2023, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive. The full schedule is as follows: Wednesday, February 15 at 7:30PM; Friday, February 17 at 7:30PM; Saturday, February 18 at 2:00PM and 7:30 PM; Sunday, February 19 at 2:00 PM; Thursday, February 23 at 7:30PM; Friday, February 24 at 7:30PM; Saturday, February 25 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; and Sunday, February 26 at 2:00PM.

Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at  joffrey.org.

Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez

Anna Karenina Tour

Yuri Possokhov’s Anna Karenina travels to the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. from April 5 to April 9, 2023. For the full schedule, visit kennedy-center.org. 

Edson Barbosa and Ensemble

About The Joffrey Ballet

The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for more than 60 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works. 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2022–2023 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Anne L. Kaplan, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, and Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.

With gratitude to Anna Karenina Commissioning Sponsors: Producing Sponsors Margot and Josef Lakonishok and NIB Foundation; Major Sponsors Lorna Ferguson and Terry Clark, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, Mr. and Mrs. Joel V. Williamson, The Walter E. Heller Foundation, JHL Capital Group, Jane Ellen Murray Foundation, Diane and John Patience, Poetry Foundation, Rudolf Nureyev Fund at The Joffrey Ballet; and Sponsors Mary Jo and Doug Basler, Ethel and William Gofen, Bill and Orli Staley Foundation, and the Australian Consulate-General in Chicago.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Nicole Ciapponi and ensemble

The Joffrey Ballet Remounts Yuri Possokhov’s Anna Karenina For Ten Performances Only, From February 15-26, 2023

ChiIL Live Shows On Our Radar

THE JOFFREY BALLET REMOUNTS YURI POSSOKHOV’S BLOCKBUSTER 

ANNA KARENINA

Image: Joffrey Company Artists Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez in Anna Karenina, Photo by Cheryl Mann.

World premiere in 2019 praised for its original score and breathtaking, cinematic production by all-star creative team

This winter, The Joffrey Ballet remounts Yuri Possokhov’s blockbuster Anna Karenina for the first time since its crowd-pleasing world premiere in 2019. Based on the novel by Leo Tolstoy, Possokhov’s immersive adaptation—winner of the 2019 “Oscars of Dance” Benois de la Danse International Prize for Best Choreography—features an original composition by award-winning composer Ilya Demutsky, costumes and sets by Emmy Award-winning designer Tom Pye, and lighting by famed designer David Finn. 

Anna Karenina will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in ten performances only, from February 15-26, 2023. We'll be out for the press opening February 15th, so check back soon for our full review.

Love is all-consuming for the beautiful but married Anna, who in the pursuit of passion, finds herself caught in a life-changing affair with the dashing Count Vronsky. Set in the late 19th century, Tolstoy’s classic shows the triumph of romance, family, and faith against a backdrop of fraught political and social transformation. 

With countless adaptations across ballet, theatre, opera, and film, Anna Karenina is often considered the earliest example of modernist literature and one of the greatest works of literature in history. Possokhov’s immersive adaptation updates the timeless story for contemporary audiences with its captivating choreography, stunning costume design, and cinematic storytelling that unravels the profound power, passion, and desire that shapes the 19th century novel.

The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director of The Joffrey Ballet Ashley Wheater MBE says, “Anna Karenina is a powerful universal love story animated by the highs and lows of human emotion. I am especially grateful to partner again with esteemed choreographer Yuri Possokhov to remount a multi-dimensional production that touched audiences across Chicago and beyond with its immersive artistry.” 

The Joffrey Ballet President and CEO Greg Cameron adds, "The 2022-23 season represents the breadth of Joffrey's artistry, from the original work presented by Chanel DaSilva in Beyond Borders, to the modern masterpiece that is Christopher Wheeldon's The Nutcracker, to the remount of Yuri Possokhov's blockbuster Anna Karenina--an all-time classic set to an original score. Following a record-breaking return to pre-pandemic attendance with The Nutcracker, we look forward to welcoming audiences back to the iconic Lyric Opera House this winter. Not only will guests experience Anna Karenina's story that has transcended the ages; they will witness the transformative power and innovation on which the Joffrey was founded."

Known for his visceral and expressive style, Possokhov has created groundbreaking new works around the globe. A frequent guest artist with The Joffrey Ballet, Possokhov is internationally recognized for transforming iconic literature into inventive, emotionally driven story ballets. Possokhov choreographed the world premiere adaptation of Anna Karenina for The Joffrey Ballet in 2019 to critical acclaim. In addition to Anna Karenina, Possokhov’s collaborations with The Joffrey Ballet include Bells (2014), The Miraculous Mandarin (2017), and Don Quixote (2011, 2022).

Anna Karenina features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet. 

Special thanks to Presenting and Commissioning Sponsor Mr. and Mrs. Joel V. Williamson, Major and Commissioning Sponsor Mary Jo and Doug Basler, and Major Sponsor The Women’s Board of The Joffrey Ballet.

Ticket information

The Joffrey Ballet performs Anna Karenina from Wednesday, February 15 to Sunday, February 26, 2023, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Upper Wacker Drive. The full schedule is as follows: Wednesday, February 15 at 7:30PM; Friday, February 17 at 7:30PM; Saturday, February 18 at 2:00PM and 7:30 PM; Sunday, February 19 at 2:00 PM; Thursday, February 23 at 7:30PM; Friday, February 24 at 7:30PM; Saturday, February 25 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; and Sunday, February 26 at 2:00PM.

Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at  joffrey.org.

Anna Karenina Tour

Yuri Possokhov’s Anna Karenina travels to the Kennedy Center Opera House in Washington, D.C. from April 5 to April 9, 2023. For the full schedule, visit kennedy-center.org. 

About The Joffrey Ballet

The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for more than 60 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works. 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2022–2023 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Anne L. Kaplan, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, and Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.

With gratitude to Anna Karenina Commissioning Sponsors: Producing Sponsors Margot and Josef Lakonishok and NIB Foundation; Major Sponsors Lorna Ferguson and Terry Clark, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, Mr. and Mrs. Joel V. Williamson, The Walter E. Heller Foundation, JHL Capital Group, Jane Ellen Murray Foundation, Diane and John Patience, Poetry Foundation, Rudolf Nureyev Fund at The Joffrey Ballet; and Sponsors Mary Jo and Doug Basler, Ethel and William Gofen, Bill and Orli Staley Foundation, and the Australian Consulate-General in Chicago.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

REVIEW: The Nutcracker by The Joffrey Ballet At Lyric Opera House December 3 – 27, 2022

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The Nutcracker by The Joffrey Ballet 

At Lyric Opera House 

The Joffrey Ballet, The Nutcracker

Photo by Todd Rosenberg

Review

by Catherine Hellmann, Guest Critic 

“Everything is beautiful at the ballet,” goes the dreamy song from A Chorus Line, and that sentiment certainly applies to the Joffrey Ballet’s annual holiday production of The Nutcracker. The setting has a wonderful Chicago twist by occurring among the excitement of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. The background depicts the world’s first Ferris Wheel and the Statue of the Republic by Daniel Chester French. (a smaller replica of “the Golden Lady” stands at a traffic circle in Jackson Park--unless construction of the Obama Presidential Library has forced its temporary removal.)  

Of course, the marvelous music by Tchaikovsky, played by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, remains. The dancing and choreography are, as expected, fabulous and inventive. Brian Selznick, the talented children’s author/illustrator, designed the story. The costumes and masks by Julian Crouch are wonderful. I loved the couples who had the men’s top hats and their vests matching their partner’s sashes at their waists. Adding to the magic are the Projection Designs by 59 Productions. 

The Joffrey Ballet, The Nutcracker

Photo by Cheryl Mann 

Clara has been changed to Marie, and her mother is a sculptress designing the famous “Golden Lady,” a neat feminist touch. They live in a rather primitive log cabin, where their sad little Christmas tree resembles a Charlie Brown tree, (Or as our brother Marty so eloquently phrased it, “Known by its Latin name,’Charlius Brownius,’” due to the ugly trees our father procured every year.) 

A very cute little girl sitting behind us offered an adorable commentary about the plot. “They’re playing games!” explained her grandma about the children at Marie’s cabin. When the bratty brother Franz breaks the Nutcracker gift (some things never change), our little friend blurted,”He broke it! She’s crying!” Then, The Great Impresario (with an awesome red cape he swept around to lovely theatrical  effect) “fixed it!” The gift was hidden in a cabinet, and it was  revealed. “The Nutcracker was in there! I knew it!” blurted our young theater goer. 

The scene with the rats was creepy, like being in our Chicago alley. (Another peculiar, perhaps unintended, reference to our beloved city…) I especially liked when the Rat King was stabbed and then dramatically hoisted off, twitching to the end, by his followers.   

Grandma behind us explained, ”The Nutcracker is a prince. They are falling in love!” (“I liked seeing the men’s butts!” declared my sister, with brutal, contrasting honesty about the pas de deux.) A gondola boat, resembling the ones from the Great Basin at the 1893 Fair, carries Marie and her prince away. There are projections of the German House, Moorish Palace, and Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show to remind us of the Chicago location. In fact, one of the traditional Nutcracker dance numbers was now performed by “Buffalo Bill” with his lasso and three rowdy cowgirls. (The real Buffalo Bill had the last laugh at the 1893 Fair. Refused admittance by the officials at the Fair, Buffalo Bill set up camp outside the fairgrounds, charged 50 cents to get in, same as Fair admission fee, and made a fortune.)    

One of the traditional dance numbers brought Little Egypt to mind. There was a scandalous belly dancer in 1893 named Little Egypt who performed just outside the fairgrounds. One of the ballet dancers was carried in by her partner and proceeded to perform a sensuous, sexy dance that had everyone riveted. She was amazing. My sister described them as “inspiring” and declared “what poise!” 

Our little friend in the row behind us was unhappy by Act II. At two hours, the show was simply too long for her. There was a lot of crying, whimpering, and shushing. “No child under ten should be allowed into this performance,” was my sister’s takeaway announcement.      

But that said, please make a family tradition of seeing Joffrey Ballet’s fantastic production of The Nutcracker. Get your mandatory photos in the lobby. You will make extraordinary memories. 

Catherine Hellmann is a theater junkie, a teacher, a mom of three, and a weirdo who keeps her Christmas tree up all year round. It makes her happy.    

Jeraldine Mendoza and Dylan Gutierrez. Photo by Cheryl Mann

THE JOFFREY BALLET CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS 
WITH RETURN OF CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON’S CHICAGO-SET 
THE NUTCRACKER

The critically-acclaimed holiday classic highlighting Chicago’s famous World’s Fair of 1893 returns for 25 performances, 

December 3 – 27, 2022

The Joffrey Ballet’s critically-acclaimed reimagined classic, The Nutcracker by Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, returns to the Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive, in 25 performances, December 3 – 27, 2022. Set in Chicago’s World’s Fair in 1893, Wheeldon’s The Nutcracker highlights the rich cultural heritage of Chicago and the wonder of the season.

“This glorious production only gets better with time,” said Ashley Wheater, The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director. “Now, six years since its debut, the holiday magic of the Joffrey’s version of The Nutcracker is perhaps more poignant than ever, a story of family and adventure. But more than anything, it is an homage to a city we cherish so much, and we look forward to celebrating another incomparable holiday season in Chicago once more.”  

“I have many fond memories of watching The Nutcracker throughout my life, and even now, dozens upon dozens of viewings later,” Greg Cameron, President and CEO, added. “What I love most is that no matter how many times I see it, the spectacle and sheer wonderment still feels new. The Nutcracker has a way of reaching people, and we are most proud and fortunate that the Joffrey’s version continues to be a point of pride and joy for Chicagoans year after year.”

Alberto Velazquez and ensemble of The Nutcracker

Photo by Cheryl Mann 

Wheeldon’s American tale relocates Marie and her immigrant family to the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, and opens as young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the Fair’s iconic Statue of the Republic, host a festive Christmas Eve celebration. After a surprise visit from the creator of the Fair, the mysterious Great Impresario, Marie embarks on a whirlwind adventure with the Nutcracker Prince through a dreamlike World’s Fair.

A ballet in two acts set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score, The Nutcracker features an award-winning creative team, including Tony Award®-nominated set and costume designer Julian Crouch, Caldecott Medal Award-winning author Brian Selznick, Obie and Drama Desk award-winning puppeteer Basil Twist, Tony Award®-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz and Tony Award®-winning projection designer 
Ben Pearcy/59 Productions. The production was adapted in 2021 by Wheeldon to fit the larger Lyric Opera stage.

The Nutcracker features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.

For the third year in partnership with Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, signature scenes from the production will be projected on the world’s largest canvas, Art on theMart. The digital art projection, designed by local production studio The Mill with music arranged by Joffrey Assistant Conductor & Company Pianist Michael Moricz, will be displayed on theMART’s 2.5 acre river-façade. It can be viewed nightly for free from the ‘Jetty’ section of the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive between Wells Street and Franklin Street November 19 – December 30, 2022, in two airings, at 7:30 and 8:00 p.m. More information can be found at artonthemart.com/programming. 

Jeraldine Mendoza and Dylan Gutierrez. Photo by Todd Rosenberg

Schedule

The Joffrey Ballet performs The Nutcracker Saturday, December 3 through Sunday, December 27, 2022. The full schedule is as follows: Saturday, December 3 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 4 at 1:00 PM; Friday, December 9 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, December 10 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 11 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM; Thursday, December 15 at 7:00 PM; Friday, December 16 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, December 17 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 18 at 1:00 PM and 6:00 PM; Wednesday, December 21 at 7:00 PM; Thursday December 22 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Friday, December 23 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, December 24 at 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM; Monday, December 26 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; and Tuesday, December 27 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM. 

Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase online at Joffrey.org/Nutcracker, by telephone at 312.386.8905 or at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. 

About The Joffrey Ballet

The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for more than 60 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works. 

Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.

Special thanks to 2022-2023 The Nutcracker Presenting Sponsor, Guarantee Trust Life Insurance, and Production Sponsors AARP Illinois and C.D. Peacock. The Joffrey gratefully acknowledges The Nutcracker Commissioning Sponsors: Margot and Josef Lakonishok; Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust; Hancher Auditorium, University of Iowa; and the many “Believers.”

The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2022–2023 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Anne L. Kaplan, Nancy and Sanfred Koltun, and Live Music Sponsors Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

Yumi Kanazawa and Hyuma Kiyosawa

Photo by Todd Rosenberg

OPENING: Reimagined Joffrey Ballet Nutcracker Set In 1892 Chicago Right Before The World’s Fair

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

THE JOFFREY BALLET OPENS THE HOLIDAY SEASON WITH

RETURN OF CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON’S NEWLY REIMAGINED

THE NUTCRACKER

All photos by Cheryl Mann

At the Auditorium Theatre, in 33 performances, 

December 1-30, 2017

Following a wildly successful world premiere in December 2016, The Joffrey Ballet will present its newly reimagined holiday classic The Nutcracker by Tony Award®-winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon in 33 performances only, at the historic Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University in downtown Chicago at 50 East Congress Parkway, December 1-30, 2017.  

“This stunning version of The Nutcracker pays homage to a magical moment in Chicago’s history,” said Artistic Director Ashley Wheater. “Creating a holiday classic that belongs specifically to the Joffrey—one that represents our dedication to unique repertoire and innovative works—has been one of my proudest moments as Artistic Director. Christopher’s work has found fresh meaning at the heart of The Nutcracker story and I am honored to delight Chicago audiences once again with this magical production.”



A ballet in two acts, The Nutcracker opens in Chicago on Christmas Eve, 1892, mere months before the opening of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893, also known as the World’s Fair, a marvel unlike anything the city has ever seen. Marie and her younger brother Franz arrive at home, where their immigrant mother—a sculptress of modest means—designs the seminal masterpiece that will preside over the Fair. A festive Christmas potluck ensues, only to be interrupted by the mysterious Great Impresario, creator of the World’s Fair. He entertains with enchanting visions of the what’s to come, distributing gifts in the process, which includes a mercurial nutcracker for Marie. That evening, Marie awakens to an epic battle between toy soldiers and rats led by The Rat King and the now life-size Nutcracker. Unexpectedly, Marie saves the day, as The Great Impresario and the Nutcracker, now transformed into a Prince, set sail on a magical journey into the night.



The second act begins as the trio arrives on the shores of the fairgrounds, greeted by the Queen of the Fair, who grants them a dream-like visit among the sprawling attractions. They move from pavilion to pavilion, represented by countries from around the world. As the dream ends, the Fair explodes with light and Marie suddenly awakens to find it is Christmas Day.

The Chicago Philharmonic, led by Joffrey Music Director Scott Speck, provides live accompaniment of the classic score by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky for every performance. The full Joffrey company is also joined onstage by over 90 young dancers from the Chicagoland area and young vocalists from four different local children’s choirs.

The Nutcracker features design by an award-winning creative team, including Tony Award®-nominated set and costume designer Julian Crouch (Hedwig and the Angry Inch, Shockheaded Peter), Caldecott Medal Award-winning author and illustrator Brian Selznick (author of the New York Times bestseller Wonderstruck, adapted into the film of the same name starring Julianne Moore, which just received its critically acclaimed U.S. release), Obie and Drama Desk award-winning puppeteer and MacArthur Fellowship recipient Basil Twist (The Addams Family), six-time Tony Award®-winning lighting designer Natasha Katz (An American in Paris, Frozen) and Tony Award®-winning projection designer Ben Pearcy (An American in Paris, Hedwig and the Angry Inch). 



Schedule
The Joffrey Ballet performs The Nutcracker Friday, December 1 through Saturday, December 30. The full schedule is as follows: Friday, Dec. 1 at 7:00pm, Saturday, Dec. 2 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 3 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Thursday, Dec. 7 at 7:00pm, Friday, Dec. 8 at 7:00pm, Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 10 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Thursday, Dec. 14 at 7:00pm, Friday, Dec. 15 at 7:00pm, Saturday, Dec. 16 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 17 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Wednesday, Dec. 20 at 7:00pm, Thursday, Dec. 21 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Friday, Dec. 22 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Saturday, Dec. 23 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Sunday, Dec. 24 at 2:00pm, Tuesday, Dec. 26 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Wednesday, Dec. 27 at 2:00pm, Thursday, Dec. 28 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Friday, Dec. 29 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm, Saturday, Dec 30 at 2:00pm.

Single tickets, which range from $35 - $165, are available for purchase at The Joffrey Ballet’s official Box Office located in the lobby of Joffrey Tower, 10 E. Randolph Street, as well as the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University Box Office, by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at Joffrey.org.

About The Joffrey Ballet
Classically trained to the highest standards, The Joffrey Ballet expresses a unique, inclusive perspective on dance, proudly reflecting the diversity of America with its company, audiences, and repertoire which includes major story ballets, reconstructions of masterpieces and contemporary works.

The company’s commitment to accessibility is met through an extensive touring schedule, an innovative and highly effective education program including the much-lauded Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet, Community Engagement programs and collaborations with myriad other visual and performing arts organizations.

Founded by visionary teacher Robert Joffrey in 1956, guided by celebrated choreographer Gerald Arpino from 1988 until 2007, The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under internationally renowned Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Executive Director Greg Cameron.

The Joffrey Ballet gratefully acknowledges the generous support of 2017 The Nutcracker Production Sponsor Jewell Events Catering. Also with gratitude to The Nutcracker Commissioning Sponsors Margot and Josef Lakonishok, Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust, Hancher Auditorium - University of Iowa, and the many “Believers” including Corporate Sponsors Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois, Gallagher, BrickStreet Insurance, Guarantee Trust Life Insurance Company, and Sponsors Mary Jo and Doug Basler, Rosemarie and Dean Buntrock, Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Pamella Roland DeVos and Daniel DeVos, Sonia Florian, The Walter E. Heller Foundation, the Auditorium Theatre of Roosevelt University, Bruce Sagan and Bette Cerf Hill, Bill and Orli Staley Foundation, and the Women’s Board of The Joffrey Ballet.

Special thanks to Co-Sponsors of the 2017-2018 Season: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, NIB Foundation, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, Live Music Sponsor the Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music, and Season Partners: pamella roland and Fox Ford Lincoln, Clear Channel Airports, and JW Marriott.

For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Free Showcase of Joffrey Ballet Winning Works At Harold Washington Library 3/11 & 12

Chi, IL LIVE Shows On Our Radar:

THE JOFFREY BALLET 

ANNOUNCES 2017 WINNERS OF THE

WINNING WORKS CHOREOGRAPHIC COMPETITION,

PRESENTED IN FIRST TIME COLLABORATION WITH THE

CHICAGO PUBLIC LIBRARY HAROLD WASHINGTON LIBRARY CENTER

Four aspiring choreographers will present World Premieres in “Winning Works”

in a weekend of FREE performances at the

Chicago Public Library Harold Washington Library Center, March 11-12, 2017

**All shows are currently wait list only. Apply HERE.** 

The Joffrey Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet, announces the recipients of the seventh annual Winning Works Choreographic Competition: Shannon Alvis, Sean Carmon, Karen Gabay and Jimmy Orrante. This announcement follows a national call for ALAANA (African, Latino(a), Asian, Arab and Native American) artists to submit applications, which began in July. The choreographers’ world premiere works will be showcased on the members of the Joffrey Academy Trainee Program and Joffrey Studio Company in “Winning Works” presented in collaboration with the Chicago Public Library Harold Washington Library Center located at 400 South State Street, in three performances, Saturday, March 11 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Sunday, March 12 at 2:00 PM. For the first time in its seven-year history, the “Winning Works” performance will be free to audiences.

The Winning Works Choreographic Competition was created to recognize talented and emerging ALAANA choreographers and to provide them with a platform to showcase their original and innovative work. The winning choreographers are awarded a $5,000 stipend and have the opportunity to seek guidance from Joffrey Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Head of Studio Company and Trainee Program Raymond Rodriguez.

“It is through the work of emerging choreographers that we are able to experience the world we live in through the future of our art form,” said Ashley Wheater, Artistic Director of The Joffrey Ballet. “Winning Works not only allows the Joffrey Studio Company and Trainees the chance to perform in these world premiere works, but also creates an opportunity to showcase the inspiring choreography of these diverse and talented artists.”

"Dance is a robust and rich language and this year, the Joffrey is honored to partner with the Chicago Public Library Harold Washington Library Center as we present the seventh annual “Winning Works”, said Greg Cameron, Executive Director of The Joffrey Ballet. “Chicago Public Library Commissioner Brian Bannon and Mayor Rahm Emanuel believe in the power of storytelling, community, and the expression of dance to engage and inspire - a mission well aligned with the “Winning Works” program. We're thrilled to present these four choreographers and look forward to activating the Chicago Public Library Harold Washington Library Center with their unique perspectives.”

"We are thrilled to launch this partnership and co-host these ambitious programs”, said Brian Bannon, Chicago Public Library Commissioner.  “Chicago Public Library is dedicated to supporting lifelong learning for patrons of all ages, and we know learning opportunities take many forms, such as those expressed through the performing arts. These “Winning Works” performances will provide Chicago Public Library and The Joffrey Ballet with an opportunity to engage people of all backgrounds and ages in a way that may inspire them to pursue new and exciting interests with both organizations."

Shannon Alvis is originally from Greenwood, Indiana and received her training at Butler University and the University of Utah. She began her career with the second company of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (HSDC), then went on to dance and perform professionally with HSDC for nine years. In 2009, Ms. Alvis went on to further her growth as a dancer at Nederlands Dans Theater under the direction of Jim Vincent and Paul Lightfoot. During her time in Chicago and Europe, she toured internationally performing works by many world renowned choreographers such as: Jiří Kylián, Nacho Duato, William Forsythe, Ohad Naharin, Jorma Elo, and Crystal Pite. Having since returned to Chicago and given birth to a little baby girl, Shannon is once again sharing her artistry with the community. She has appeared in several productions at the Lyric Opera including Rob Ashford's Carousel, Susan Stroman's The Merry Widow, and most recently Les Troyens with Helen Pickett. She is on faculty at the Joffrey Academy of Dance, and Interlochen School for the Arts. Ms. Alvis is now very happy to be exploring her creativity through works of her own. In the past year, she has choreographed for Visceral Dance Chicago, Thodos Dance Chicago, and DanceWorks Chicago.

Sean Carmon joined Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in 2011 and has performed major solo and featured roles in ballets by many notable choreographers. His own choreographies have been performed all across the country and internationally and have been lauded as "everything and then some..." and "powerful" and "seriously flawless" by major national print and online publications such as The New York Times, Newsweek, JET Magazine, BroadwayBlack, DanceSpirit and Dance Magazine. He has choreographed for the Youth America Grand Prix among other national competitions. Mr. Carmon has also created works on the AAADT for their 2012 and 2016 Ailey Dancer's Resource Fund benefit performances. Mr. Carmon created a new, critically acclaimed work, Youth Novels, on METtoo, a youth company, in Houston, TX and was commissioned by The Dance Gallery Festival to create fever dream featuring two fellow Ailey dancers. He also teaches master classes in contemporary jazz and Horton-based modern and choreographs for dance conventions, high schools, colleges and universities across America and internationally.

Karen Gabay grew up in San Diego and has had a career as a ballerina that spans over thirty-five years.  Her repertoire includes Odette/Odile in Swan Lake, Giselle in the title role and her most favorite role of Juliet in Romeo & Juliet. During Gabay’s long association with Ballet San Jose (formerly the Cleveland San Jose Ballet) she began dancing principal roles at the age of eighteen and later held the title of Artistic Associate.  As a choreographer, she created numerous ballets for the company including the 2012 production of BSJ’s annual production of The Nutcracker which led to her first children’s book, “The Nutcracker: A Story in Verse.” Gabay was awarded the Artist Fellowship Award for choreography by the Arts Council Silicon Valley and was nominated for an Isadora Duncan Award for her performance in Tzigane. Gabay is the co-founding Artistic Director of her own ballet troupe, Pointe of Departure which performs in the bay area and in Northeast Ohio.  She is an active Screen Actors Guild Member and continues to pursue work in film and television. Gabay recently joined the faculty at the San Francisco Ballet and is part of their Master Class series.

Jimmy Orrante was a recipient of the 2005 Princess Grace Choreography Award, the 2011 Special Project Award for DanceTech and the sole recipient of the 2014 Choreography Mentorship Co Commission (CMCC) Award, all from the New York City based Princess Grace Foundation.

A native of Los Angeles, he attended The Los Angeles County High School for the Arts and continued his training at The North Carolina School of The Arts. He has danced with Nevada Ballet Theatre, Memphis Ballet and 20 years with BalletMet where he had the opportunity to choreograph 15 premieres for the company. In addition to BalletMet, he has created ballets for Ballet Austin, Motion Dance Theatre, Rochester City Ballet, Ballet Arkansas, Atlanta Ballet’s Wabi Sabi and UC Irvine’s National Choreographers Initiative. Mr. Orrante’s repertoire includes two full length ballets, The Great Gatsby, which premiered with BalletMet in 2009 and was reprised in 2015, and the children’s ballet The Ugly Duckling for Rochester City Ballet. This performance series included a successful sensory friendly performance which was featured on PBS’s Facebook page. His choreography on students has earned him several awards including the National Recognition Award from Regional Dance America, and he has served as choreographer in residence at Dennison University. Jimmy currently resides in Columbus, Ohio with his wife and 3 children.

Ticket Information

Tickets for “Winning Works” at the Chicago Public Library Harold Washington Library Center are FREE/RSVP required. 

About the Joffrey Studio Company

The Joffrey Studio Company is a scholarship program of the Joffrey Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet. The Joffrey Studio Company consists of 10 outstanding students selected by Joffrey Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and Head of Studio Company and Trainee Program Raymond Rodriguez. The Joffrey Studio Company and Trainees have performed on some of the most prestigious stages, including Lincoln Center in NY, the Auditorium Theatre, Harris Theater for Music and Dance, Cadillac Palace Theatre and MCA Stage in Chicago, Music Hall in LA, The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. and more. The individualized training and performance opportunities provided by the Joffrey Studio Company offers students unique insight into the life of a professional dancer, assisting students in preparation for a professional career in dance and helping them expand their technique and artistry.

About the Joffrey Academy Trainees

The Joffrey Academy Trainee Program is a one to two-year program for students ages 17 and older who are preparing for a professional dance career. Students are selected to participate in the Trainee Program by invitation from Artistic Director Ashley Wheater and the Head of Studio Company and Trainee Program Raymond Rodriguez. This esteemed and rigorous program gives students a unique and well-rounded experience to prepare them for the next step in their careers. Trainees rehearse and perform classical and contemporary works from The Joffrey Ballet’s extensive repertoire and have the opportunity to work with guest choreographers throughout the year. Graduates of the Academy have gone on to dance professionally with companies throughout the world including The Joffrey Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet, Staatsballett Berlin, Dresden Semperoper, Complexions, Milwaukee Ballet, Memphis Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, BalletMet, Polish National Ballet, Slovak National Ballet, and many more.

For more information on the Joffrey Academy of Dance, Official School of The Joffrey Ballet and its programs please visit joffrey.org/academy.