For more than 40 years, Ballet Arkansas has provided the community with countless dazzling performances, from high concept art to family friendly traditions. And after a year unlike any other, the troupe has announced its upcoming lineup of shows and events for the 2021-2022 mainstage season, dubbed “Awakening,” with a return to normalcy on the horizon.
“The community is experiencing an arts awakening with renewed interest, excitement and a strengthened realization of the importance of the arts in our community,” says Catherine Fothergill, Ballet Arkansas’ associate artistic director.
Without further ado, here’s the 2021-2022 season:
“The Great Gatsby”
Oct. 21-24 | UA-PTC CHARTS
The season begins with a vibrant multimedia world premiere of “The Great Gatsby,” designed in collaboration with Cranford Co and the production team at UA-PTC CHARTS Theater. A roaring 2020’s start to the season, “Gatsby” is filled with glitz, glamour, mystery and murder — just in time for Halloween. This unique telling of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic tale is complemented by stunning original choreography and a collision of modern and historical production elements.
“The Nutcracker Spectacular”
Dec. 9-12 | Robinson Center
A holiday tradition for families all across Arkansas, “The Nutcracker Spectacular” is the largest holiday production in the state, reaching more than 10,000 in a single weekend. Featuring the professional dancers of Ballet Arkansas performing alongside a community cast of children and adults, the production engages the community in the celebration of a holiday classic. Performances will include live accompaniment from the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra, playing the iconic Tchaikovsky score.
“Nutty Nutcracker”
December, TBA | Robinson Center
For those looking for a laugh this holiday season, Ballet Arkansas is pleased to present a world premiere holiday event unlike any other filled with hijinks and humor for the whole family.
“Coppelia and the Toymaker”
Feb. 17-20 | UA-PTC CHARTS
Perfect for families, this comedic gem tells the story of young love, a toymaker and his magic doll. Featuring drama and virtuoso dancing, the program is a “must-see” this season.
“The Four Seasons” & “Confetti”
April 21-24 | UA-PTC CHARTS
A perfect pairing of celebrated works, visual art and music, “The Four Seasons” features four world premieres created by four female choreographers, set to Vivaldi’s paramount score “The Four Seasons.” Presented by the Stella Boyle Smith Trust, the program is the highlight of the season and features repertory unseen in the region, created by world-renowned choreographers such as Gerald Arpino’s high-energy “Confetti.”
Live at the Plaza
April 29 – May 1, May 6-8 | Argenta Plaza
An encore to its premiere in the spring of 2021, this popular outdoor series provides the public with free mixed-repertory performances and education programs in North Little Rock’s Argenta Plaza. Presented in partnership with the North Little Rock Convention and Visitors Bureau.
“The Firebird”
Date & location TBA
A magical story about a prince, an evil sorcerer and a bird made out of flame, Ballet Arkansas’ unique telling of the “The Firebird” is a vibrant suite of dances that will captivate both children and adults.
Studio 520 New Works Series
Dates TBA | Main Street, Little Rock
Join Ballet Arkansas for a series of classes, artistic talks, intimate performances and special events. Details coming soon.
Upcoming special events include the annual Turning Pointe Gala, the fan-favorite Land of the Sweets Nutcracker Tea, a roaring 20s-themed event series and more.
“This season the public will have multiple opportunities to experience and engage with Ballet Arkansas,” says executive and artistic director Michael Fothergill. “Whether you prefer the traditional, the new or the unexpected, we’ve got something for everyone.”
Tickets and subscriptions go on sale in July with in-person and with digital viewing options. To learn more, visit the Ballet Arkansas website, and be sure to follow along on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for the latest.
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