Early in his career, Balanchine choreographed for the Ballets Russes in France. Emeralds is the French-inspired section of Jewels, and features music by the French composer Gabriel Fauré. When creating Emeralds, Balanchine was inspired by Romantic era ballets, like La Sylphide, and by French ideals, saying Emeralds represents “an evocation of France—the France of elegance, comfort, dress, perfume.”

In Rubies, Balanchine highlights the American influence and energy on his style. When he arrived in America, Balanchine was interested in Broadway, jazz, and the modern city style of New York. All of these qualities are shown in Rubies. It’s full of energy, with a fast, fresh feeling. The dancers wear shorter skirts and their legs extend higher. A close collaborator of Balanchine, Igor Stravinsky, composed the music, which has many twists as shown in the choreography with movement like flexed feet, angular shapes, and playful movements.

The program concludes with Diamonds, Balanchine’s tribute to the grand style of Russian Ballet. Set to music by Tchaikovsky, this ballet is full of rich and classic imperialist style. Balanchine was born and grew up in Russia, and this section was influenced by the Mariinsky Ballet and its school, where he trained. There is an impressive parade of dancers, and they move with regal symmetry, creating elegant patterns and diamond shapes. The white costumes glisten, as if in a Russian palace or a winter sky. Diamonds is a lush and glamorous conclusion to this program filled with stunning and challenging performances from Boston Ballet’s dancers.

“What are you waiting for? What are you saving for? Now is all there is.”
―George Balanchine

George Balanchine was one of the 20th century’s most prolific choreographers. He created more than 400 works throughout his career and is celebrated widely for his signature neoclassical style that transformed the ballet world. Born in St. Petersburg, Russia, Balanchine came to the United States in 1933, established the School of American Ballet and ultimately New York City Ballet, where he was Ballet Master and Principal Choreographer. Balanchine also played a vital role in establishing Boston Ballet, serving as artistic advisor to the Company in the early 1960s.