Northwest Ballet's Alexis Faulk as the Swan Queen
Northwest Ballet Company’s “Beautiful at the Ballet,” its 37th annual Spring production, returns to the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts at 2 and 8 p.m. May 13 and 4 p.m. May 14.
This year’s performance features excerpts from well-known shows such as “Swan Lake,” “Peter Pan,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and “Chorus Line.”
“We’ve done singular story ballets for the last few years, so this is the first time since 2010 that we’re including a bit of everything in the performances,” says director Marisa Roth.
Styles include classical and contemporary ballet, lyrical and jazz, with guest appearances by artists from North End Swing and Afrofusion. The pieces are choreographed by Northwest Ballet School teachers as well as guest artists, and will feature 40 talented dancers.
Northwest Ballet Company principal Stephanie Smith, who has been dancing with the school for 15 years, steps on stage for her last show with the company.
“Even though some might think dancing is an individual sport, we all work hard toward a common goal,” she says. “This upcoming performance is especially great because it’s so fun. There really is something for everyone, with bits and pieces from so many different shows.”
Northwest Ballet School teacher and choreographer Kristine Stanfield praises Roth for her willingness “to let us take chances with our pieces … That trust and outside-of-the-box thinking makes for great dances.”
As a result, the audience can expect unusual props, engaging music, and flourishing creativity.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for 12 and under, and may be purchased in advance at the Kalispell Grand Hotel (406-755-8100) or at the box office an hour before each performance.
For details, call 406-755-0760 or visit www.northwestballet.com.