Ib Andersen, Ballet Arizona’s Artistic Director, is making marks this 2022-2023 season with his fourth world premiere production to be debuted at the Desert Botanical Garden. The Rite of Spring will be performed May 16 to June 3, 2023, at Ballet Arizona’s annual An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden.

Andersen’s The Rite of Spring will create a whole new look to the orchestral work, initially composed by Stravinsky in 1911 and 1912. Andersen has modernized the composition with transformational choreography that captures the energetic and emotional feel of the music through ballet.

“Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring is one of the most challenging scores composed for ballet,” said Andersen. “It’s a score I have lived with for almost 40 years, always thinking about how to deal with the extraordinary energy the music creates. I have decided now is the time to face and embrace this masterpiece for Desert Botanical Garden with new added visual elements.”

Each year, Andersen incapsulates an artistic performance that is uniquely Arizonan at An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden. From visual wonders of the scenic Desert Botanical Garden landscape to the natural backdrop of the desert, his performances promise a compelling experience that highlights what makes Arizona beautiful.

After debuting Round, Eroica, Topia, and The Four Seasons at the Garden, Andersen is excited for the talent of contemporary ballet performances in the desert we call our home.

An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden Opening Night Sponsors are F. Francis and Dionne Najafi of the Pivotal Foundation. The Ballet Arizona performance series at Desert Botanical Garden is made possible by support from the Mayo Sports Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Clinic.

Tickets for The Rite of Spring are available now and expected to sell out. All performances begin at 8 p.m. Prices start at $60. Arrive early and watch the professional company take ballet class on stage. A gourmet picnic menu is available for purchase including beer, wine, and non-alcoholic refreshments. Tickets are available for purchase at balletaz.org or by calling 602-381-1096.

About Ballet Arizona:

Ballet Arizona is dedicated to preserving and celebrating classical dance while creating new and innovative works. Under the artistic direction of internationally acclaimed choreographer Ib Andersen – a former Principal Dancer with The New York City Ballet and The Royal Danish Ballet – Ballet Arizona follows his lead to the future of dance in Arizona. The School of Ballet Arizona promotes access to the art form of ballet through dance education, with a focus on excellence in the form, directing each student to a life-long love of dance. Following this vision, Ballet Arizona connects to more than 35,000 children and families every year through its free and low-cost outreach programs. For more information, visit http://www.balletaz.org.