It is not uncommon these days to see works of art debut here, which only solidifies my belief that we are truly becoming
BetaCity, USA.
This is never more evident than during a world debut, like that of choreographer Olivier Wevers, featuring the collaborative work lighting designer Michael Mazzola. It arrives in the form of a modern dance adaptation of William Shakespeare's “
A Midsummer Night’s Dream” at the Grand Rapids Ballet (GRB.)
Making the leap from the theatrical page to the ballet stage, this very condensed version of the popular Elizabethan work is told through the eyes of the character young Nick Bottom. Setting the ballet in Bottom's mind, our character imagines through dance what it would be like to be an adult as well as become president.
As any creative-in-the-mind youth knows all too well, often our experiences with -- or as -- such characters can lead to becoming victims of bullying, peppered with moments of escape via literature, and, of course the most universal of all desires, to love and be loved.
Besides developing new creations for Whim W’Him, the critically acclaimed contemporary dance company in Seattle where Wevers is the founder and Artistic Director, he has also created works for numerous companies and festivals in Canada, Japan, and the United States, including Pacific Northwest Ballet, Royal Winnipeg Ballet, Grand Rapids Ballet, Spectrum Dance Theater, Northwest Dance Project and Ballet X.
The GRB has been expanding their reach more and more in its attempt to shake off the old dust of what a contemporary dance company is. The debut of “
A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is a chance to view a new choreographer's work up close at the intimate 300-seat Peter Martin Wege Theatre. Every seat is a good seat!
Special student offering: $12 rush tickets for students may be purchased in-person with valid school ID, beginning 60 minutes prior to show time at the GRB Box Office.
Admission: $40 adults, $35 seniors (60+), $30 children (2-12), and $20 college students in advance.