News

The Artistic Vision of Atlanta Ballet

We are so appreciative of your passion for and support of Atlanta Ballet, and encourage you all to continue engaging in open conversation following the recent news about some of the Company’s impending changes.  However, we have noticed that Atlanta Ballet patrons and dance enthusiasts in Atlanta and beyond are under the impression that the Company repertoire moving forward will consist of strictly classical works, when in fact Atlanta Ballet’s current season and future programming has been and will continue to be more diverse than ever. 

In March, our dancers showcased their classical technique in 19th century masterpiece Paquita as well as their versatility and strength through a contemporary world premiere by Gemma Bond and the North American premiere of Liam Scarlett’s Vespertine. Next weekend, audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy the neoclassical splendor of Balanchine’s Allegro Brillante, the intimate physicality and passion of contemporary choreographer Jiří Kylián’s Petite Mort and Yuri Possokhov’s whimsical and vibrant Firebird. Our 17|18 Season will give audiences the chance to experience a wide spectrum of dance styles, from act III of Swan Lake and a Broadway-influenced work by Balanchine to multiple contemporary world premieres and the revival of Ohad Naharin’s Minus 16. By presenting a rich and diverse repertoire consisting of local, regional, and international choreographers, Atlanta Ballet’s balanced blend of traditional and innovative programming will further develop and deepen the appreciation of ballet within the Atlanta community and beyond.

Each dancer who has shared his or her gift on-stage with Atlanta Ballet has contributed to its legacy, and that gift is irreplaceable. Even though we will miss seeing some of our beloved and well-known dancers’ faces on-stage in future seasons, we respect the decisions of those dancers who have chosen to retire from the profession or express their artistic energy either in a new way or to new audiences in Atlanta and around the world. While it is sad to see any of our dancers go, we appreciate their time with Atlanta Ballet and look forward to following each dancer’s journey after his or her final bow on-stage with the Company. 

Change is an expected and natural reality for any organization – especially for one introducing new leadership and vision. This kind of transition can be especially challenging for anyone – from dancers and staff to patrons and long-time advocates – who have been a part of and/or supported that organization for a substantial amount of time. Particularly in this industry, the artistic interests of a dancer and the artistic vision of his or her Company must mutually align. Under the direction of Gennadi Nedvigin, Atlanta Ballet’s artistic vision embodies a balanced mix of classical, neoclassical, and contemporary repertoire, which will require versatile dancers who are not only able to perform a variety of works, but who also share the passion and have the desire to perfect their technique in those various dance styles. Even though Atlanta Ballet’s vision for the Company may not perfectly align with some of the current dancers’ creative interests, we wish them all of the best as they transition into their respective next chapters.

If you have any questions about Atlanta Ballet artistic or strategic intent for the future, please feel free to contact publicrelations@atlantaballet.com.

Thank you again for your ongoing passion and support.

Atlanta Ballet