About the Performance

Synopsis

Ovation is a mixed repertory performance that highlights the Alabama Ballet dancer’s versatility, strength, and artistry.  Alabama Ballet will present two pieces, George Balanchine’s Serenade and Agnes de Mille’s Rodeo.

George Balanchine’s Serenade is a milestone in the history of dance. It is the first original ballet Balanchine created in America. The ballet is performed by 28 dancers in blue costumes in front of a blue background. Originating it as a lesson in stage technique, Balanchine worked unexpected rehearsal events into the choreography. When one student fell, he incorporated it. Another day, a student arrived late, and this too became part of the ballet.

Rodeo, a love story set on a ranch in the American Southwest, is a ballet composed by Aaron Copland and choreographed by Agnes de Mille, which premiered in 1942. Subtitled “The Courting at Burnt Ranch”, the ballet consists of five sections: “Buckaroo Holiday”, “Corral Nocturne”, “Ranch House Party,” “Saturday Night Waltz”, and “Hoe-Down”.