Variations Sérieuses
Universal Ballet Premiere | Arko Arts Theater on June 30, 2005 |
---|---|
Choreography | Christopher Wheeldon |
Music | Piano works by Felix Mendelssohn adapted and orchestrated by Mack Schlefer |
Staging | Ben Huys |
Set Design | Ian Falconer |
Costume Design | Ian Falconer |
Running Time | 43 minutes |
An intriguing look at the backstage life of a ballet company.
The ballet Variations Serieuses derives its name from one of the three Mendelssohn piano pieces in its score, but the name belies its plot, a warm and witty look at professional ballet. The ingenious scenery created by Ian Falconer allows the audience to watch from the wings as the "New York Classical Ballet" rehearses a new ballet. The cast of characters includes a tempermental prima ballerina, a rehearsal pianist with an unfortunate tendency to lose the tempo, a graceful stage crew, and a young girl who goes on at the last minute - and comes back a star! The ballet is an affectionate tribute to the different people whose contributions help create the perfection we see on stage.