American Repertory Ballet (ARB) returns to McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, N.J., with “Of Swans and Variants,” a one-night-only program of classical and contemporary works, at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 4.
The evening’s double bill features an excerpt from the timeless “Swan Lake,” as well as the innovative “VARIANTS,” choreographed by Artistic Director Ethan Stiefel.
Set against Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly beautiful score, “Swan Lake” transports audiences into the mesmerizing world of Odette, the swan princess, as she reveals her true form to Prince Siegfried. From the famous “Dance of the Cygnets” to the poignant and renowned romantic pas de deux, this fairy tale scene promises to leave audiences of all ages spellbound.
“VARIANTS” is a fresh and daring work, set to Brahms’ monumental piece for solo piano “Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24,” featuring 25 variations and a concluding fugue.
Stiefel remarked, “The music so completely and naturally lends itself to dance, and offers the opportunity for diverse, adventurous, and soulful qualities in both movement and portrayals.”
Collaborating once more with set designer Howard C. Jones, Stiefel creates an immersive theatrical experience with “VARIANTS.” In addition, ARB Resident Costume Designer Janessa Cornell Urwin, in partnership with the Australian label Keto Dancewear, has created vibrant costumes to enhance the visual spectacle of the performance.
For tickets, visit arballet.org or call the McCarter Theatre Center box office at 609-258-2787.
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