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Events
ABT@85: Classics to the Contemporary
October 28, 2025 at 7:30 pm
David H. Koch Theater
New York, New York
ABT@85: Classics to the Contemporary
The Kingdom of the Shades
Choreography by Natalia Makarova
after Marius Petipa
Music by Ludwig Minkus
Specially Arranged by John Lanchbery
Production Conceived and Directed by Natalia Makarova
Scenery by PierLuigi Samaritani
Costumes by Theoni V. Aldredge
Lighting by Brad Fields
Production Coordinator Dina Makaroff
Running Time: 34 minutes
The Kingdom of the Shades, from the full-length ballet La Bayadère, offers a shining moment not just for the Principal Dancers and Soloists but for the female corps de ballet who open this fabled ballet passage with an astonishing sequence of pure classicism and precision. A masterpiece of choreographic synchronicity, the rigor, focus, and artistry required of ABT’s dancers to move and breathe as one is nothing short of extraordinary.
Le Grand Pas de Deux
Choreography by Christian Spuck
Music by Gioacchino Rossini (Overture from The Thieving Magpie)
Costumes by Nicole Krahl
Lighting by Martin Gebhardt
Le Grand Pas de Deux is a witty and playful parody of classical ballet’s grand pas de deux tradition. With exaggerated poses, humorous timing, and cheeky interactions, the piece turns ballet’s formal conventions on their head. It is a clever and lighthearted celebration of technique and theatricality, full of charm and unexpected surprises.
Rhapsody pas de deux
Choreography by Frederick Ashton
Music by Sergei Rachmaninoff
Costumes by William Chappell
Lighting by Brad Fields
One of Frederick Ashton’s final and most challenging works, Rhapsody was created in 1980 for The Royal Ballet. Choreographed for Mikhail Baryshnikov and Lesley Collier, this pas de deux features fast, dazzling footwork and luminous musicality. An ode to Baryshnikov’s athletic power and legendary technicality, the virtuosic jumps and turns contrast with the lead ballerina’s control and grace. Married to Sergei Rachmaninoff’s brilliant music, this ballet shows Ashton at his most masterful.
The Sleeping Beauty Act III
Choreography after Marius Petipa
Staged by Susan Jaffe
Music by Peter Ilyitch Tchaikovsky
Costumes by Willa Kim
Additional Designs by Holly Hynes
Lighting by Brad Fields
Act III of The Sleeping Beauty unfolds as a lavish celebration of Princess Aurora and Prince Désiré’s wedding. The royal court comes alive with spirited dances by cherished fairy tale friends, such as the Bluebird and Red Riding Hood. Central to the act is the couple’s pas de deux, showcasing the exquisite partnership between the Prince and Princess. With its timeless choreography and Tchaikovsky’s rich score, this piece delivers a joyous and magical conclusion to the beloved fairy tale.