Ballet BC’s 2023/24 season opens with ‘HERE’, an evening featuring two world premieres and a returning favourite. Stephen Shropshire and Shahar Binyamini will share their debut creations for the Ballet BC stage, and William Forsythe, will return to share Enemy in the Figure.
BOLERO X | Shahar Binyamini
For the first time in Ballet BC history and brought to life through a collaboration with Vancouver’s Arts Umbrella Dance, 50 dancers will take the stage for the world premiere of Shahar Binyamini’s ‘BOLERO X.’ Set to Ravel’s 1928 masterpiece, the creation explores themes of unison and repetition, while still allowing for individuality and stand-out solo and duet performances. The choreography echoes the music, with a mesmerizing crescendo and powerful group formations.
Little Star | Stephen Shropshire
Stephen Shropshire’s new creation was inspired by Italian composer, guitarist and musicologist Angelo Gilardino’s “Ah vous dirais-je Maman,” which was adopted for the English language lullaby “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”. Shropshire’s movement language for the creation is dynamic, beginning with themes suggesting something child-like and playful, before evolving into something more intricate and complex.
Enemy in the Figure | William Forsythe
Set to a brooding score by Thom Willems, the work is a highly acclaimed and beloved creation from one of the greatest choreographers of all time. The work involves a significant amount of improvisation—something Ballet BC’s classically-trained contemporary dancers are particularly well-versed in, making the performance new and exciting each time it’s performed. Forsythe’s work also famously explores extremities and intense physical commitment, making his ballets an unforgettable experience for both the dancers and the audience.
The livestream recording will be available Nov 4, 2023 until Nov 10, 2023.
Ballet BC would like to thank the Diamond Foundation and the R&J Stern Family Foundation for their support of Ballet BC’s Outreach and Education Program.
Ballet BC acknowledges the financial assistance of the Province of British Columbia for Ballet BC’s Outreach and Education Program.
