An experience that will refresh your soul.
May 15–25, 2025
Jiří Kylián Petite Mort and 27’52”
Mikko Nissinen Raymonda
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Artists of Boston Ballet in Mikko Nissinen’s Raymonda by Ernesto Galan
May 15–25, 2025
Jiří Kylián Petite Mort and 27’52”
Mikko Nissinen Raymonda
Jiří Kylián by Anton Corbijn
27’52” is made for six dancers, who form three duets. When the ballet was created, four dancers from the original cast were inspired by various poems in the creation process. Quotes from these poems are also included in the work. The ballet was developed through a unique collaboration between choreographer and composer, as German composer Dirk Haubrich created the music specifically for this piece.
“In the very title—which simply reproduces the length of the piece—rhythm and space are united in the same movement. In the score… there can be found the sensual, pared back dancing, which is the choreographer’s signature.”
–Arts and Culture
Roman Rykine and Rie Ichikawa in Jiří Kylián’s Petite Mort by Gene Schiavone
One of Kylián’s most beloved ballets, Petite Mort is a sensuous exploration of what it means to be human. Known for its molded skirts and sword play, it is truly one of the most provocative and beautiful works in ballet today.
“…in the moment of pleasure (…) we are reminded of the fact that our lives are of a relatively short duration, and that death is never too far from us… it is always a Mort, which accompanies our lives, sometimes it is Petite, sometimes it is Grand, but it is the most faithful companion we have, from the dawn of our existence till the end.”
–Jiří Kylián
Haley Schwan and Lasha Khozashvili with Artists of Boston Ballet in Mikko Nissinen’s Raymonda by Rosalie O’Connor
Mikko Nissinen has re-envisioned Marius Petipa’s Raymonda, with rechoreographed sections by Florence Clerc, Alla Nikitina, and Nissinen. The world premiere on February 22, 2024 was praised for its lavish costumes, brilliant dancing, and sumptuous score. This reimagined classical ballet delighted ballet purists with its demand for strong classical technique and bravura dancing with featured roles for the corps, soloists, and principals. The ballet stays true to Boston Ballet’s values by removing outdated and offensive stereotypes and characters and focusing solely on preserving the classical choreography.
“I have been intrigued by Raymonda for many years and am thrilled to have the opportunity to reimagine this iconic classic. I am fortunate to work with a dream team of associated artists whom I deeply respect.”
–Artistic Director Mikko Nissinen
PERFORMANCE CALENDAR
Thursday, May 15 at 7:30 pm
Friday, May 16 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 17 at 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 18 at 1:30 pm
Thursday, May 22 at 7:30 pm
Friday, May 23 at 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 24 at 1:30 and 7:30 pm
Sunday, May 25 at 1:30 pm
With Appreciation
These performances of Jiří Kylián’s 27’52” and Petite Mort have been made possible by generous gifts from a Sponsorship Circle, including Ann C. Gallo and Dr. Charles S. Carignan. Additional support provided by the Mikko Nissinen Artistic Fund.
Mikko Nissinen’s Raymonda was made possible by generous gifts from Lisa and Tom Blumenthal, and the Stephens Naphtal Foundation.
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Please Note: The music in some ballets may be loud depending on where you are sitting and your own comfort level. Please plan accordingly.
Choreography
Jiří Kylián
Music
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Piano Concerto in A Major – Adagio
Piano Concerto in C Major – Andante
Set Design
Jiří Kylián
Lighting Design
Joop Caboort
Lighting Adaptation
Eric Blom
Costumes
Joke Visser
Staging
Urtzi Aranburu and Shirley Esseboom
World Premiere
August 23, 1991, Nederlands Dans Theater
Choreography
Jiří Kylián
Music
Dirk Haubrich, composition inspired by the original Ur-Version of Gustav Mahler’s Symphony nr. 10 (1910)
Costume Design
Joke Visser
Stage Design
Jiří Kylián
Lighting Design
Kees Tjebbes
Video Registration
Rob de Groot
Assistant to the Choreographer
Gerald Tibbs
World Premiere
January 2, 2002, Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT II)
Original Choreography
Marius Petipa
Reimagined by
Mikko Nissinen
Music
Alexander Glazunov, adapted by Mischa Santora
Additional Choreography
Florence Clerc, Alla Nikitina (Character Dances) and Mikkon Nissinen
Scenic and Costume Design
Robert Perdziola
Assistant Scenic Design
Nicholas Kostner
Lighting Design
Brandon Stirling Baker
World Premiere
February 22, 2024, Boston Ballet, Citizens Opera House, Boston, MA