By Cris Franco
Long renown for attracting the world’s greatest dancers, American Ballet Theater (ABT) has counted Alicia Alonzo, Fernando Bujones, Mikhail Baryshnikov, George de la Peña, Alexander Godinov and Herman Cornejo among its impressive roster of iconic talents. Today that tradition continues with soloist Luciana Paris and their impressive corps de ballet including Jose Sebastian, Michael de la Nuez, Carlos Gonzalez, Isadora Loyola, Joao Menegussi, Javier Rivet with guest artist Daniel Camargo.
From (Wednesday) March 16th thru (Saturday) March 19th at Costa Mesa, California’s exquisite Segerstrom Center for the Arts ABT will present ABT FORWARD: three dazzling short programs highlighting not only their incredible artistry and athleticism, but also the inspiring visions of three of today’s most exciting choreographers.
ZigZag celebrates the legendary career of Tony Bennett (accompanied by Lady Gaga!) referencing both Mr. Bennett’s vast discography and his visual artwork to highlight the authentic humanity of his vocal performances.
Bernstein in a Bubble is an exciting reflection of artistic creativity in these challenging times, inspired by the variety, charm, and quintessentially American spirit of Leonard Bernstein’s Divertimento.
The third ballet Single Eye, will be the world premier by the illustrious Alonzo King, whose namesake company recently delighted audiences in September 2021.
“This is an opportunity to see work by three contemporary masters of their craft. A classic taste in music and dance vocabulary (Leonard Bernstein/Alexei Ratmansky) is complemented by the iconic American voice of Tony Bennett and Jessica Lang’s fun and whimsical movement, followed by a World Premiere from Alonzo King to a commissioned score from American jazz pianist Jason Moran. Literally, this will be American artists reflecting America through the lens of inventive genius,” says American Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Kevin McKenzie.
American Ballet Theater is referred to as “America’s National Ballet Company” because it brings to the stage the excellence, diversity and ingenuity that has made our nation a creative hub for the world. See the best ballet has to offer by seeing ABT FORWARD.