The Clark Offers Balanchine Ballet from Russia in HD Screening

(WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.) – On Sunday, September 23, at 1 pm, The Clark kicks off its new Ballet in HD series with a broadcast of George Balanchine’s Jewels. Known as one of Balanchine’s most revered ballets, Jewels is performed by the famed Mariinsky Ballet and is set to the music of Fauré, Stravinsky, and Tchaikovsky. Before emigrating to the West, Balanchine studied in Saint Petersburg and was a member of The State Academic Theatre, now known as the Mariinsky. This performance was filmed by Brian Large at the Mariinsky Theatre and features many of the Mariinsky’s most well-known dancers alongside conductor Tugan Sokhiev and the Mariinsky Orchestra.

Jewels dates from late in Balanchine’s career as a choreographer and was premiered at the New York City Ballet in 1967. Although it did not receive its first performance at the Mariinsky until 1999, it has since become a core part of the company’s repertoire. Jewels consists of three acts: “Emeralds,” “Rubies,” and “Diamonds,” each representing one of the three golden ages of dance. There is a stark contrast in composition and style for each of the three acts, linked only by the dancers’ dazzling costumes encrusted with colored gems corresponding to the title act.

Running time is 92 minutes. Tickets are $15 ($13 members and students). For tickets, visit clarkart.edu or call 413 458 0524.

The Mariinsky Ballet (formerly known as the Kirov) is probably the world’s greatest ballet company with an astonishing heritage and home to many of the most celebrated dancers. The ballet tours regularly, as well as performing throughout the year in Saint Petersburg.

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