In The Upper Room: Immerse yourself in genre-bending dance

In The Upper Room (Courtesy, Grand Rapids Ballet)

 

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

 

 

Grand Rapids Ballet‘s last show of the season, In The Upper Room, features captivating athletic feats.

 

Created by renowned choreographer Twyla Tharp, In The Upper Room is performed in both sneakers and pointe shoes, and features movements beyond classical ballet to create a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience. Grand Rapids Ballet dancers have rehearsed over 100 hours to master the diverse skillsets necessary to effortlessly perform this challenging ballet.

 

According to the Twyla Tharp Dance Foundation, “The choreography fuses a broad spectrum of movement into one vigorous vocabulary; boxing, tap dance, yoga, ballet, and full-out sprinting are intertwined. The dancers must push through the difficult steps, intricate timing, and aerobic demands of the choreography.”

 

The program also includes George Balanchine’s revered work Serenade. Balanchine’s memorable 1934 neo-classic masterpiece features sweeping choreography, exquisite stage patterns, and iconic long tulle dresses, all paired with a lush score by Tchaikovsky.

 

In The Upper Room will be performed at Peter Martin Wege Theatre on April 26-28 and May 3-5. Tickets can be purchased here.

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