The Joffrey Ballet’s ‘Golden Hour’ shines with world premieres and timeless elegance

The Joffrey Ballet is set to illuminate the stage with its upcoming mixed repertory program, Golden Hour, running from February 20 to March 2, 2025, at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House. This vibrant collection of works features two highly anticipated world premieres alongside returning audience favorites, promising an evening of artistic excellence.

One of the world premieres, Princess and the Pea, comes from choreographer Dani Rowe. Known for her imaginative storytelling, Rowe reinterprets the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale through a contemporary lens, accompanied by an original score from composer Jim Stephenson. Her fresh take on this beloved story is expected to bring both charm and depth to the stage.

Another highlight is Andante, a new work by celebrated choreographer Yuri Possokhov, whose past collaborations with the Joffrey include Anna Karenina. Set to a stirring composition by Dmitri Shostakovich, this trio-based piece delves into intricate emotional themes, showcasing Possokhov’s signature choreographic style.

Returning to the stage is Nicolas Blanc’s Under the Trees’ Voices, a deeply expressive piece set to Ezio Bosso’s Symphony No. 2. Blanc’s work explores themes of human connection and resilience, a reflection on the bonds that sustain us through times of separation and uncertainty.

The program concludes with Heimat by Cathy Marston, a ballet inspired by Richard Wagner’s Siegfried Idyll. This piece evokes the warmth and nostalgia of home, drawing from the German concept of "heimat"—a feeling of belonging. Marston, who considers Chicago and the Joffrey Ballet integral to her artistic journey, weaves these themes into a moving tribute to family and place.

With its blend of bold premieres and evocative returning works, Golden Hour promises to be a dynamic and compelling experience for ballet lovers. Performances run from February 20 through March 2 at the Lyric Opera House. Tickets and additional information are available at Joffrey.org.

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