‘Ballet in Concert’: BYU Theatre Ballet Celebrates A Century of Gerald Arpino

The Group Will Perform Three of Arpino’s Pieces in Celebration of His Legacy and in Preparation For Their Upcoming Nationwide Performance.

Come join BYU Theatre Ballet as they perform ‘Ballet in Concert’ in celebration of Gerald Arpino’s 100th birthday and his lasting influence on dance choreography. As the co-founder of the Joffrey Ballet and a renowned choreographer in the 20th century, Arpino’s works have made their way to professional dance companies around the world.

The company’s concert will feature three works by Arpino for an “All Arpino Night”: ‘Birthday Variations’, ‘Viva Vivaldi’ and ‘Reflections.’

In ‘Birthday Variations,’ BYU Theatre Ballet will be accompanied on the piano by Amalie Simper, Head Ballet Accompanist at Utah Valley University, as she plays the Giuseppe Verdi score. ‘Reflections’ will feature two-person dances, advanced technical skills and signature musicality, a perfect portrayal of Arpino’s choreographic style.

The company will also perform an excerpt of ‘Viva Vivaldi,’ one of Arpino’s most unique dances. This showpiece was created in 1965 and contains both original duets and group passages.

Theatre Ballet was also selected to perform in the Gerald Arpino Centennial Celebration with other professional companies around the United States. This celebration will take place this September in Chicago, Illinois.

Come to ‘Ballet in Concert’ and help BYU’s Theatre Ballet team commemorate a legendary choreographer.