An exciting world-premiere performance from Ballet Arkansas is heading to a new stage: the North Little Rock Event Center.
Originally slated for Jan. 23-24 and now set for May 1 and 3, “Origins: A New Works Celebration” will close out the company’s 46th season. Originally scheduled for Ballet Arkansas’ home base, the production will now take place at the brand-new North Little Rock Event Center in Argenta. The program will feature never-before-seen works choreographed by company artists Deanna Stanton, Murray McCormack, McKenna Ulbrick, Liev Ewart and Kerridwyn Schanck.
“In reimagining the program for this new space, BA made a bold and exciting decision,” says Michael Fothergill, executive and artistic director. “When we looked at the scale and flexibility of the North Little Rock Event Center, it felt like an invitation to think outside the box. Rather than revisiting past season repertory via a ‘best of series,’ we wanted to close the season with something fresh — new voices, new movement and new ideas — while also removing barriers for audiences by making the concert free.”
Fothergill says the move also marks a milestone for the North Little Rock Event Center as it expands its role as a destination for live performance.
In keeping with the organization’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement, all performances of “Origins” will be free and open to the public. Following the final performance on May 3, Ballet Arkansas will host a ticketed season-closing reception that includes a meet-and-greet with the company’s professional artists, festivities and more.
“Origins” is not the company’s only new production this season. In February, Ballet Arkansas will present the world premiere of “Cinderella,” a reimagining of the classic fairytale. The production will feature nearly 100 community performers, new sets and costumes and updated choreography by Fothergill, all set to Sergei Prokofiev’s score.
“Cinderella” will be performed at the Robinson Center from Feb. 20-22. For tickets and more information, visit the Ballet Arkansas website.
Additional details about “Origins,” including showtimes and information about the ticketed reception, will be announced in March. Follow Ballet Arkansas on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.