Stars of American Ballet perform Gerald Arpino's Light Rain.
Ready for an evening of elegant, world-class ballet? Montana Ballet Company (MBC) brings Stars of American Ballet to Bozeman for one night only in a performance titled CONNECTIONS 2022. Dancers from the world-renowned New York City Ballet, Ballet West, Ballet Hispánico and other companies take the stage at 7 p.m. June 3 at Willson Auditorium.
These accomplished dancers will perform a dazzling, evening-long program featuring iconic classical and contemporary works highlighting the exceptional talents of some of the finest artists of our time, including Daniel Ulbricht, Beckanne Sisk and Chase O’Connell. Montana Ballet Company dancers will open the program.
“The 2019 Stars of American Ballet performance in Bozeman was breathtaking with audible gasps from the audience,” reports Elizabeth DeFanti, artistic and executive director of Montana Ballet Company. “Patrons shared how moved they were by the dancers’ outstanding artistry, talent and excellence.”
Founded by New York City Ballet Principal Dancer Daniel Ulbricht, Stars of American Ballet currently tours around the world offering performances, master classes, pre-performance lectures and community outreach programs. The mission of Stars of American Ballet is “to one day see all parts of this country entertained, educated, lifted up and inspired by the art of ballet and great dancing, delivered to anyone, anywhere, who wishes to share this experience.”
DeFanti, notes that decades ago MBC founding director, Ann Bates, created a program called NY Connection that brought artists from New York City Ballet to Bozeman during the summer months to teach and perform with MBC students and dancers.
DeFanti debuted CONNECTIONS in 2019 to honor the NY Connection legacy and provide an opportunity for Montana Ballet and its audiences to “connect” with the national dance community. After a two-year pandemic hiatus, CONNECTIONS 2022 promises to captivate audiences once again with distinguished dancers and choreography.
“With COVID safety precautions, we’ve waited three years for this Stars’ encore,” says DeFanti. “We are truly grateful to be able to gather in person once again and collectively experience the magic of exceptional dance and choreography – what a gift!”
Ticket prices range from $25-$75 and are available online or by calling 406-582-8702. All seating is reserved.
CONNECTIONS Master Class
Daniel Ulbricht, a principal dancer with New York City Ballet and director of Stars of American Ballet, will teach a special master class at 5:30 p.m. Thursdays, June 2. The class is open to advanced students. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Contact MBC at 406-582-8702 or [email protected] to register.