Frontier
World Premiere
Artistic Director Julie Kent’s first-ever commissioned work, Frontier*, will be choreographed by Ethan Stiefel for The Washington Ballet. The work is inspired by President Kennedy and his aspirations for America as a leader of artistic, cultural and intellectual excellence. His historic May 25, 1961 “urgent needs” address to the United States Congress serves as the impetus for this work. This speech launched what became a legacy in U.S. space travel and exploration with a determination for the United States to be the first to land a man on the moon. The President and First Lady focused national attention on the role of the arts in a country and the need for a nation to represent itself through its art. They also encouraged the development of Washington as a cultural center. The President was an advocate for America’s ability to educate and develop individuals in cultural, intellectual and artistic endeavors.
Stiefel investigates space exploration through the perspective of the astronaut, delving into the emotional and physical rigors required for space travel. From the enigmatic anticipation of the adventure yet subsequent isolation in having such a unique and powerful experience, the astronaut’s journey is compelling.
Choreography     Ethan Stiefel
Music                  Adam Crystal performed by The Washington Ballet Orchestra under conductor Martin West
 
Lilac Garden (Jardin aux Lilas)
Set in the Edwardian period, a young woman is betrothed to a man she does not wish to marry. Tudor has been referred to as the creator of the psychological ballet.
Choreography Antony Tudor
Music              Ernest Chausson, Poème for violin and orchestra, opus. 28 performed by The Washington Ballet Orchestra under conductor Martin West
 
The Dream
Company Premiere   
"Ashton's imagination knows no bounds." The New York Times
A delightful interpretation of Shakespeare’s  A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Choreography      Sir Frederick Ashton
Music                   Felix Mendelssohn performed by The Washington Ballet Orchestra under conductor Martin West