Ballet Arizona will present The Four Seasons, a journey through winter, spring, summer and fall in movement, May 18 to June 5 at Desert Botanical Garden for the company’s performance of An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, March 9, 2021.

The world premiere performance, choreographed by acclaimed Artistic Director Ib Andersen and set to the dramatic score of Antonio Vivaldi, will run for 15 breathtaking evening performances set under the setting sun against the matchless desert backdrop. This year’s performance holds particular significance as it marks the company’s first major public performance after having to cancel all large-scale productions since the start of the pandemic in March 2020.

Now, in his 21st year with Ballet Arizona, The Four Seasons is one of Andersen’s most impactful pieces yet, with all-new set design, costumes, and multimedia elements that embrace the surrounding desert landscape.

“This idea has been on my mind for quite some time and I am thrilled I get to finally present it after what has been a very challenging season for Ballet Arizona,” said Andersen said. “This score has to be one of the most celebrated in the classical canon and it is proving to be as fun as it is challenging to choreograph on our dancers. There is so much depth and so many layers to this piece. It is actually twelve different movements and it changes constantly and dramatically. This piece will be a visual feast full of exquisite energy that can only be enhanced by the outdoor desert landscape.”

Andersen’s previous work at the Garden inspired The New York Times chief dance critic Alastair Macaulay to designate Ballet Arizona as “one of the most enterprising companies anywhere.” Past Desert Botanical Garden debuts Eroica, Topia and Round have drawn critical acclaim, attracting sellout crowds.

The Ballet Arizona performance series at Desert Botanical Garden is made possible by support from the Mayo Sports Medicine Clinic.

Tickets for The Four Seasons are available now and expected to sell out. All performances begin at 8 p.m. Prices start at $50. Arrive early and watch the professional company take ballet class on stage. A gourmet picnic menu is available for purchase. Due to continued health and safety measures, seating will be socially distant and the general admission section will be assigned seating. Face masks will be required for all patrons when not actively eating or drinking. For the best tickets and prices, always purchase directly from Ballet Arizona at http://www.balletaz.org.

Watch a sneak peek here https://youtu.be/6U7XQtxPaX4.