1. It’s not just Carmen.
While the program is titled Carmen, the performance is a double bill, meaning there are two ballets performed in one program. Jorma Elo’s Carmen is presented with the cherished classic Kingdom of the Shades, choreographed by Florence Clerc (after Marius Petipa). This program will combine fiery passion with elegant mystique for a program of unforgettable and dynamic dancing showcasing the versatility and breadth of Boston Ballet’s dancers.
2. Carmen is making its highly anticipated return.
Boston Ballet Resident Choreographer of 19 years, Jorma Elo premiered his production of Carmen in Boston in 2006, and he reenvisioned it again in 2009 as Carmen/Illusions. The ballet was set to return for a third time in March 2020 when the pandemic cancelled live performances. The return of the critically acclaimed work has been 15 years in the making. This 2024 production includes new set and lighting designs.
3. Carmen is a contemporary retelling of a classic story.
Jorma Elo is an award-winning and highly sought after artist known for his masterful use of neo-classical and contemporary styles. He has choreographed for numerous companies including New York City Ballet, Bolshoi Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet. In Carmen, he chose to combine the original themes of the ballet from 19th-century Spain, with the world of 21st-century high fashion. In his version, Carmen is a supermodel trapped in a sizzling love triangle between Don José, a successful businessman, and Escamillo, a Formula One racecar driver. Elo masterfully combines elegant lines with unique and innovative movements for an unforgettable ballet. Read more about THE NARRATIVE OF CARMEN.
4. Kingdom of the Shades is an excerpt of a full-length ballet.
Kingdom of the Shades is a work of classical ballet widely recognized as one of the grandest examples of 19th century Russian ballet choreography. It is an excerpt of a full-length ballet called La Bayadère. In our ongoing commitment to DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND BELONGING, Boston Ballet has chosen not to present the full-length production of La Bayadère, because we recognize its problematic storyline and strongly disagree with its appropriation of South Asian culture. Instead, we choose to preserve the best of non-narrative classical choreography without perpetuating culturally insensitive and offensive portrayals by presenting an excerpted section of the ballet. READ MORE about why we made this decision.
5. Kingdom of The Shades highlights Boston Ballet’s strong corps de ballet.
Kingdom of the Shades is an ethereal ballet known for its large corps de ballet and technically challenging choreography. In Boston Ballet’s production, the scene features female dancers performing in unison, showcasing elegant adagio movement in precise synchronization. It requires intense focus, balance, stamina, and strength.
