A beloved summer tradition returns to the Lyric Theatre in Assiniboine Park.
Ballet in the Park showcases the grace and artistry of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Company joined by Professional and Recreational Division dancers under the prairie sky.
Featuring new creations and iconic classical selections, the evening presents a diverse program of exciting and entertaining works free of charge.
RWB Anna McCowan-Johnson Aspirant TJ Gaulke is looking forward to performing on the outdoor stage.
“It's nice to see like all the people,” says Gaulke, who moved to Winnipeg from Wisconsin seven years ago at the age of 13 to join the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Professional Division Program.
The aspirant welcomes the opportunity to share the bill with company members in this unique event, though admits the prairie sunsets can sometimes grab attention.
“I get a little distracted with the skyline every now and then,” he says with a laugh.
Dancing alongside Gaulke will be fellow aspirant Aylin Contreras, who arrived in Winnipeg three years ago from even further away – Guadalajara, Mexico – after being encouraged by Mexican-born RWB Ballet Master and former principal dancer Jaime Vargas.
“I just looked up to him and I auditioned,” says Contreras. “Thus far, it’s been amazing. It’s been different, of course, but I just love it here.”
The pair will perform the dazzling pas de deux from the ballet Don Quixote.
Choregraphed by Marius Petipa with music by Ludwig Minkus, the work is a quintessential part of the ballet tradition.
“It’s just a very fiery piece,” says Contreras. “Very dynamic, very romantic.”
The two have each performed the work before, though they were only paired together earlier this month.
“It’s been really fun,” says Gaulke about the partnership.
Also on the Ballet in the Park program are two new works by recently promoted RWB principal dancer Stephan Azulay, plus choreography by second soloist Joshua Hidson, as well as a piece by aspirant Grace Frazer-Sneddon.
Attendees can also look forward to a selection from the adored holiday favourite Nutcracker – perhaps reminding audiences of cooler temperatures – and more!
Ballet in the Park runs from July 24 through 26 with performances beginning at 7:30 p.m.
An hour earlier, pre-show activities begin, including face painting, a craft station, and a free Creative Movement class, along with a variety of food trucks.
The event is free but attendees can register for a ticket to receive updates and be entered to win a full season subscription to the RWB’s 2024-25 season.
More details at www.rwb.org