Universal Ballet

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.

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