‘The Firebird’ Takes the Stage Valentine’s Day
The past and future collide in one production for Ballet Arizona’s performances of The Firebird, a new production from Artistic Director Ib Andersen, and La Sylphide, one of the world’s oldest ballets. This juxtaposition of old and new comes to Symphony Hall Valentine’s Day weekend, Feb. 14-17, with live music by The Phoenix Symphony.
While the story of The Firebird stems from a classic Russian tale, Andersen’s rendition reimagines the story using a futuristic lens that explores love, fantasy and escapism. The Firebird unfolds in an undefined setting, where the aesthetics of warriors, monsters and aliens combine to create an otherworldly experience unlike any other performance presented by Ballet Arizona.
The world premiere of The Firebird features original choreography by Andersen and couture costumes created by famed New York costume designer Fabio Toblini. Ballet Arizona’s resident lighting designer, Michael Korsch, creates the atmosphere for Andersen’s vision, employing light and projections for a cinematic-like experience featuring a 120-foot panoramic screen that engulfs the stage. This visual spectacle is a vivid expression of Igor Stravinsky’s masterful score performed by The Phoenix Symphony.
La Sylphide, presented alongside The Firebird,is one the most iconic romantic ballets, created in the early 19th century. The tale of passion and elusive love features an alluring fairy and diabolical witch who wreak havoc on the life of a young Scotsman, James, who gives up everything for the love of a beautiful, but unattainable, woodland sprite.
The Firebird is produced by Barbara and Donald Ottosen, longtime supporters of Ballet Arizona known for their board service, volunteerism and philanthropy in the Phoenix community. The Firebird and La Sylphideare also sponsored in part by Salt River Project.
The Firebird and La Sylphide
Feb. 14 – 17
Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix
visit balletaz.org.
