Apollo / Aeternum / 24 Preludes
Two world premieres and a modern classic: this tantalizing new programme of ballet features work by three master choreographers.
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News and features
Your Reaction: Royal Ballet Mixed Programme
Your comments about Apollo, 24 Preludes and Aeternum.
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Background
World premieres by two of the world's most sought-after choreographers and an early classic by George Balanchine make this programme of complementary perspectives a highlight of the Season. The brilliant Alexei Ratmansky, currently Artist-in-Residence at American Ballet Theatre and former Artistic Director of the Bolshoi, is much admired for his revitalization of narrative ballet and for taking classical conventions in new directions. This is his UK choreographic debut.
The Royal Ballet Artistic Associate Christopher Wheeldon has created an impressive succession of ballets on the Company – including most recently his fabulous full-length Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Balanchine's earliest surviving ballet, Apollo, launched his international career in 1928. With a triumphantly bold role for the male Principal – Apollo, the Greek god of music, light and knowledge – and beautiful dancing for three female muses, Apollo is a 20th-century dance classic. Igor Stravinsky provides the piece's rich neo-classical score.
Thanks to
Generous Philanthropic Support from
Apollo: Sarah and Lloyd Dorfman and Lindsay and Sarah Tomlinson
New Ratmansky: Sarah and Lloyd Dorfman, The Tsukanov Family Foundation, Sir Simon and Lady Robertson, Marina Hobson MBE, Celia Blakey and Richard and Delia Baker
New Wheeldon: Sarah and Lloyd Dorfman, Edward and Celia Atkin, David Hancock, Celia Blakey and The New Ballet Works Syndicate
How to support the Royal Opera House
Running time
As a mixed programme, the performance last about 2 hours 45 minutes | including two intervals. Apollo will last for about 33 minutes followed by a 25 minute interval. 24 Preludes will last for about 40 minutes followed by a 30 minute interval. Aeternum will last for about 20 minutes.
Mixed programme
These works are performed together:
Apollo
George Balanchine’s interpretation of the myth of Apollo is one of the landmark ballets of the 20th century. Its classical beauty is underpinned by Stravinsky's magnificent score.
Aeternum
The world premiere of a new work by renowned choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, created for The Royal Ballet.
24 Preludes
Acclaimed choreographer Alexei Ratmansky presents his first work for a British company in this keenly awaited world premiere.
Related links
- en.wikipedia.org Wikipedia: Apollo
- en.wikipedia.org About Christopher Wheeldon, choreographer
- www.newyorker.com Alexei Ratmansky, the most sought-after man in ballet
- en.wikipedia.org About Alexei Ratmansky, choreographer
