Founded in 1963, with Barbara Weisberger as its first director – she was a protégée of the legendary George Balanchine – and Eisenhower himself providing funding, through his agent, the theatre impresario Sol Hurok, it has become one of the most notable ballet companies in the US. Located in the city of Philadelphia, the well-provisioned Pennsylvania Ballet draws an extensive repertory from the vast riches of the classical ballet legacy, with high-level dancers performing with a commitment that has fuelled its way to international success in contemporary repertory.
History and Founders
Pennsylvania Ballet was established by Barbara Weisberger with the dream of presenting the highest calibre of dance in Philadelphia. Balanchine’s influence on the development of the company is clear in the foundational repertoire and training that emphasise clarity, musicality and feeling.
Over the years, Pennsylvania Ballet has had the fortune of having some truly accomplished artistic directors. People such as Robert Weiss, Christopher d’Amboise and Roy Kaiser have led the company to make great strides in its growth and artistic development. As a result of having these talented leaders, the company has increased its repertoire and established itself as a major ballet company in the United States.
Repertoire and Performances
Pennsylvania Ballet’s repertoire ranges from the classics to new works. The company is known for its Balanchine repertory. They regularly perform his Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Giselle, Serenade and Apollo.
Pennsylvania Ballet is also well known for adding contemporary ballet and modern-leaning work to its classical repertoire, such as Twyla Tharp’s Push Comes to Shove, William Forsythe’s In the Middle, Somewhat Elevated and the ongoing relationship with Pennsylvania-born choreographer Matthew Neenan, who has provided a series of works for the company.
Pennsylvania Ballet performs mostly in Philadelphia at the Academy of Music, one of the oldest and finest theatres in the US with an elaborate Gilded Age interior that reinforces the impression that ballet is meant to be seen under such opulent circumstances. The company also stages performances in the Merriam Theater and other venues in the region.
Community Engagement and Education
Standing at the core of the Pennsylvania Ballet’s mission is community engagement and dance education programmes designed to bring the art of ballet to all audiences, regardless of background or socioeconomic status. The company’s outreach programmes, which take place both in school and as satellite programmes, are in place to support the mission of fostering a diverse interest and passion for creative dance in young people. Numerous workshops and free performances introduce ballet to underserved communities.
Many of its alumni have pursued careers in dance companies such, as the Pennsylvania Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, New York City Ballet and the Dance Theatre of Harlem.
Notable Achievements and Recognition
During that time, it has won international acclaim and many awards for artistic excellence; it has received glowing reviews from national and international dance critics for its technical skills, emotional depth, and innovative choreography; and its engagement with classical and original work expresses the vision of its director and choreographer. In particular, Pennsylvania Ballet’s annual production of The Nutcracker has become a holiday favourite in Philadelphia that fills 60,000 seats each year.
The company’s tours and guest appearances have won the company’s national and international acclaim. Pennsylvania Ballet has been presented at major venues and festivals that elevate it as a major ballet company.
Looking Forward
In the future Pennsylvania Ballet aims to uphold its commitment, to delivering top-notch ballet shows on stage and nurturing dancers. Some future goals include enlarging the repertoire by commissioning new works by contemporary choreographers, expanding the community programmes, and continuing to grow the School of Pennsylvania Ballet into a world-class training programme.
Conclusion
Pennsylvania Ballet is an enduring reminder of the transcendent beauty of ballet. The company’s glorious legacy, wide-ranging repertory, passion for teaching and well-regarded educational outreach offer something for everyone throughout the Philadelphia region. From the soaring poetry of the classical ballet to the cutting-edge dynamics of the contemporary, the company is here for us all. You can experience the magic of Pennsylvania Ballet – at the Academy of Music or one of its community venues. As the new season approaches, I hope you’ll join us as we continue to thrill and delight audiences.
