Fri 3/20 & Sat 3/21 @ 7PM
Sun 3/22 @ 2PM
The next performances by the Cleveland Ballet might seem a bit startling to some people: they’re dancing to George Frideric Handel’s beloved and very familiar 1741 oratorio Messiah. The work was choreographed by former New York City Ballet dancer principal dancer Robert Weiss, who went to found the Carolina Ballet, where he’s still artistic director.
Of course, the Cleveland Ballet won’t be dancing to a recording! They’ll be joined by the BlueWater Chamber Orchestra and the Cleveland Chamber Choir, who will give them live musical power to fuel their dancing, with Gregory Ristow conducting.
And while most people associate Messiah with Christmas, when all those “sing-along” Messiahs happen, it’s actually more appropriate for Easter. Only its first movement deals with Jesus’ birth; the second is about his death and resurrection, and the final part covers judgment day and his promise of redemption for believers.
The evening concerts will be preceded by Behind the Curtain talks at the rear of the theater at 6:20pm, where Weiss, Cleveland Ballet artistic director and other members of the ballet’s artistic staff will share some background into the production.
The performances take place at Playhouse Square’s State Theatre. Get tickets here.