Ballet Arizona Announces Groundbreaking World Premiere Production

Ballet Arizona revealed today it will present The Firebird, a groundbreaking, dramatic new work from Artistic Director Ib Andersen for the anticipated upcoming 2018-2019 season. The Firebird promises to set the season afire with Andersen's compelling original choreography, stunning new costumes, and multi-media enhanced sets. The Phoenix Symphony will provide the Igor Stravinsky score, February 2019, at Symphony Hall.

The vibrant costumes will be designed by acclaimed costume designer, Fabio Toblini, the designer behind Ballet Arizona's original costumes for The Nutcracker. The costumes will be created and built by Ballet Arizona's talented team of in-house seamstresses.

Michael Korsch, Ballet Arizona's resident lighting designer, will translate Andersen's artistic vision for the futuristic world of The Firebird by creating both lighting and set design. Korsch, who has established international renown for his lighting artistry with dance companies around the world, will explore the latest lighting and media technologies in the designs.

This enthralling and forward-thinking ballet is produced by Barbara and Donald Ottosen, long-time supporters of Ballet Arizona who are known for their strong commitment to our community through volunteerism, board service, and philanthropic investments in the arts. Barbara Ottosen currently serves as a member of Ballet Arizona's Board of Directors. The Ottosens were a critical part of the success of Ballet Arizona's capital campaign which established the Arizona Center for Dance, housing both Ballet Arizona and The School of Ballet Arizona.

The world premiere of Andersen's The Firebird is based on a Russian fairytale, with a singularly original twist. This unique performance tells this classic story through the lens of the present-future, exploring themes of love, fantasy, and escapism, making it perfectly in tune with Stravinsky's modern score.

Ballet Arizona will present five performances of The Firebird, February 2019, which will be paired with the romantic classic La Sylphide, to complete the program at Symphony Hall in Phoenix. Ticket prices start at $25, with discounts offered for seniors, students, military, and groups. For early access to tickets, subscribe to Ballet Arizona's 2018-19 season by calling 602-381-1096 or by visiting www.balletaz.org.

Ballet Arizona

Ballet Arizona, approaching its 33nd season, is dedicated to preserving and celebrating classical dance while creating new and innovative works. Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed choreographer Ib Andersen - a former Principal Dancer with The New York City Ballet and The Royal Danish Ballet - Ballet Arizona follows his lead to the future of dance in Arizona. The School of Ballet Arizona promotes access to the art form of ballet through dance education, with a focus on excellence in the form, directing each student to a life-long love of dance. Following this vision, Ballet Arizona connects to more than 35,000 children and families every year through its free and low cost outreach programs.

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