The Season of Awakening

A message from RCB Artistic Director Robert Gardner

At the Rochester City Ballet, we are determined to do our part in slowing the spread of the virus and have returned to the studio, practicing all the recommended protocols and creating wonderful dance again. For our 2020/21 season, now opening in October.

I had already titled my first full season with the Company The Season of Awakening, which now seems even more appropriate. In October we will be presenting George Balanchine’s ballet ode to George Gershwin – Who Cares?”and Salvatore Aiello’s evocative The Waiting Room to Arvo Paart’s emotionally resonant Fratres, and my first ballet for the company, to a score by Gwyneth Walker.

In this brave new world for the performing arts, these works will be offered virtually, and though the excitement of seeing dancers in person may be missed, the passion and artistry will shine though the screen. We will continue with a Fall Series of virtual offerings of favorite performances.

A reimagined Nutcracker in December with the RPO, now “Clara’s Dream” will bring all the holiday joy so needed, in a shorter one act version, with no need for intermission. Clara wakes to find herself escorted by the Nutcracker Prince through the Land of the Snowflakes to the magical kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy.

In February, we look forward to returning to the stage with an exciting program including a world premiere by award winning choreographer Kate Skarpetowska. And in March, as we long for the return of spring, A Midsummer Night’s Dream brings a breath of fresh air.

“Fall under the spell of a moonlit evening in an enchanted forest, filled with star-crossed lovers and mischievous fairy-folk. Robert Gardner’s exuberant telling of Shakespeare’s finest comedy is sure to delight one and all!”