Madison Ballet

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Tom Davenport

Madison Ballet dancers.

Artistic director Ja’ Malik says he wanted to highlight Rhapsody in Blue because of its popularity, which may help audience members feel connected to the production, even if they don’t know much about ballet. Ja’ Malik calls the rest of the program “a taste of everything” — Fragments of Hope, also choreographed by Ja’ Malik, as well as In Grief by Alvin Ailey company alum Yusha-Marie Sorzano, Something to Remember You By by Stephanie Martinez, and a new piece to be choreographed by the School of Madison Ballet principal and teaching director, Richard Walters. Shows are at 7 p.m. on Sept. 27 and 2 and 7 p.m. Sept. 28-29.

$55-$35.

media release: Madison Ballet artistic director Ja’ Malik proudly announces the fall season opener, a tribute to the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue. For five performances only, the talented artists of Madison Ballet will captivate audiences with a program that showcases the company's emotional depth, technical prowess, and artistic excellence. The evening will include two beloved repertoire works from previous seasons, a company premiere, and two world premieres. The inclusion of local band Mr. Chair and local musician Cellist Dan Barker adds an elevated touch to this evening of performing arts, promising an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

“In Grief”- Premiered to great acclaim as part of our Ballet Beyond program in 2023, this emotionally charged and dramatic work for six dancers explores the personal and universal experiences of grief, resonating deeply with audiences. Created for Madison Ballet by Yusha-Marie Sorzano, former dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, In Grief is set to the expressive and grand “Lento – Cantabile Semplice” from Henryk Górecki’s Symphony of Sorrowful Songs No. 3. 

“Fragments of Hope”- A thought provoking and uplifting ballet created for Ballet Rhode Island in 2022. Inspired by Richard Hunt’s Spiral Odyssey, Ja’ Malik’s Fragments of Hope delves into the intricacies of humanity, exploring themes of connection, empathy, and resilience. The work’s choreography mirrors the sweeping, exact forms of the sculpture, creating a visually and emotionally compelling narrative."

“Something to remember you by”- Created by award-winning choreographer Stephanie Martinez, which was originally created for Tulsa Ballet 2 and had it’s Madison Premier in the winter of 2024. Martinez describes her work as, “… an ode to the passing of a loved one. How they wish to be celebrated and remembered, while exploring the dichotomy of extreme sadness and exuberant joy for those who are still living.” This glorious work of humor and sorrow for ten dancers is set to a romantic playlist of music from Tchaikovsky, Bach, Chopin, among other classical greats.

“New Richard Walters” (World Premier)- Madison Ballet's Rehearsal Director and School Principal will create a world premiere featuring live music by local musician Dan Barker and composer Brandon Alley.

“Rhapsody In Blue”(World Premiere)- Ja’ Malik’s new ballet set to Gershwin’s iconic composition will immerse audiences in the dynamic energy and rhythm of New York City. The live accompaniment by local band Mr. Chair adds a fresh, modern twist to this timeless piece, while Ely Kleinsmith’s lighting and Fernanda Yamaguchi’s costumes bring the cityscape to life on stage.

Join us on opening night for a post-show conversation with the artist of Madison Ballet, moderated by artistic director Ja’ Malik.

Tickets are ON SALE NOW  and can be purchased online at MadisonBallet.org  or by calling The Overture Center Box Office 608-258-4141, or by visiting the Overture Center Box Office at 201 State Street, Madison WI 53703

Reserved seating tickets are $40-55 for adults, $35-50 for children and seniors. Student rush tickets are available for $20 day of show with ID.

Madison Ballet, a cornerstone of the Dane County arts community for 40 years, offers a rich array of traditional and contemporary ballets to over 13,000 attendees annually. The beloved holiday performance of “The Nutcracker” is a highlight of the season. The School of Madison Ballet nurtures students of all ages, instilling poise, confidence, discipline, and essential life skills through dance. Additionally, their outreach programs, in collaboration with local schools and community organizations, bring the joy of dance to thousands of young people.

Our mission is to foster a deep appreciation for ballet and make this beautiful art form accessible to all. We are dedicated to inspiring and training the next generation of dancers, artists, and professionals. This is achieved through the dynamic performances of the Madison Ballet Company, the comprehensive education provided by the School of Madison Ballet, and extensive outreach efforts in partnership with community groups.

Madison Ballet is committed to evolving ballet into an inclusive art form that reflects the diversity of our world, ensuring representation both on stage and behind the scenes. We are particularly dedicated to fostering new voices in ballet, especially from marginalized communities, and are committed to creating new works that reflect these diverse perspectives. Through this, we aim to broaden the horizons of ballet and ensure it remains a vibrant and relevant art form for future generations.