RWB premieres three new works in Mixed Programme
 

Winnipeg, MB (April 14, 2014) - Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s 74^th season concludes with a mixed programme featuring three stunning Winnipeg premieres from leading contemporary ballet choreographers. This series of works, presented at the Centennial Concert Hall from May 7-11, represents RWB’s history with a glimpse into the past, present, and future as RWB prepares to launch its milestone 75^th Anniversary season.

The Four Seasons, by internationally acclaimed choreographer James Kudelka, is a rich interpretation of the journey of life. Kudelka has created works for Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal, Montréal Danse, the Joffrey Ballet, the American Ballet Theatre and the National Ballet of Canada. Hailed by critics as a “modern masterpiece” and danced to Vivaldi’s four violin concertos, The Four Seasons integrates brilliant ensemble work with virtuosic solos and breathtaking pas-de-deux.  This work explores the passage of time with the innocence of spring, the passion of summer, the calmness of autumn, and life’s culmination in winter. A stunning, mature work, this is a story of youth, discovery, and living life to the fullest.

In the final season, winter, audiences are sure to be delighted and captivated with the return to the stage of talented former RWB dancers, selected by Kudelka to honour the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s upcoming 75^th season. This performance marks a rare opportunity to see four RWB greats take the stage once more: Evelyn Hart, former principal dancer (1976-2005); Caroline Gruber, former soloist (1989-1999) and current RWB Instructor; John Kaminski, former principal dancer (1978-1997); and Alexander Gumayanov, former Soloist (2001-2013) and current RWB Professional Division Instructor.

Mixed Programme also includes a signature choreographic work by Winnipeg’s own, Jorden Morris. Morris’ latest creation, Défilé, celebrates the interconnectivity of the RWB Company and the RWB School. Audiences will see dancers from all facets of the organization on stage for a memorable performance.

Inspired by Petipa and Balanchine, The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude completes the trio. Choreographed by William Forsythe and performed on pointe, the fast-paced, high energy work certainly lives up to its name, providing a breathtaking display of classical technique, precise footwork and courtly partnering. Alongside an energetic score by Franz Schubert and the streamlined costuming of Stephen Galloway, the Company brings this neoclassical work to life with impressive precision.
Mixed Programme is a fitting collection of works to close the 2013/14 season as

RWB launches its 75^th anniversary season.
“The three works you will see embody the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s spirit through the years,” said André Lewis, Artistic Director of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. “We are thrilled that James Kudelka has chosen to honour our organization by selecting four great talents that have graced the stage of the RWB throughout its history.  Having both Company dancers and the School on the same stage also marks our commitment to our future.”

Mixed Programme Media Opportunities
Closed Rehearsal: Wednesday, April 30 at the RWB Building (380 Graham Avenue) 6pm.

Come and witness an intimate look behind-the-scenes as RWB creative team works with Company dancers in rehearsal. Media is welcome to attend this rehearsal. To RSVP your seat, call RWB Communications Specialist at (204) 957-3447

Media Call: A media call will be held on Tuesday, May 6 at 2:15pm at the Centennial Concert Hall in conjunction with the dress rehearsal. Details to follow.

About Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet (rwb.org)
Founded in 1939, Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet holds the double distinction of being Canada’s premier ballet company and one of the oldest ballet companies in North America. Versatility, technical excellence and a captivating style are the trademarks of Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet, qualities that have garnered both critical and audience acclaim. RWB’s superlative standards keep the Company in demand around the globe as it presents more than 150 performances every season across Canada and in the United States, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Russia, Japan, Asia and Mexico. Under the artistic direction of André Lewis for 17 years, the Company is said to have never looked more resplendent, more assured, and more ravishing.

CALENDAR LISTING:
What: Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet presents Mixed Programme
Location: Centennial Concert Hall, 555 Main Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Date: May 7-11, 2014 

Time: May 7, 8, 9, 10 at 7:30pm; May 11 at 2pm
Tickets: Single tickets are available online at www.rwb.org, in person through the RWB Customer Service Office at 380 Graham Avenue or by calling 204-956-2792  or toll free 1-800-667-4792  Groups of ten or more should contact the RWB Customer Service Office for more information on group discounts.