Ballet Des Moines to premier “See the Music (Hear the Dance)” in Grinnell

The Ballet Des Moines will debut its performance of "See the Music (Hear the Dance)" on Feb. 20 at Grinnell High School. The event, a collaboration with the Civic Music Association, and presented by Grinnell College, will feature a company of 22 professional dancers and live musicians on stage, including the renowned Aizuri Quartet and pianist Douglas-Jayd Burn.

The performance will include three distinctive ballet works that celebrate the intersection of classical music and dance, embodying the belief of esteemed Russian choreographer George Balanchine that “dance is the visual embodiment of music.” Two world premieres by Ballet Des Moines artistic director and choreographer Tom Mattingly will be showcased, with live music accompanying both. Mattingly's works will feature performances of Goetz Oestlind's "Four Seasons" and Philip Glass's iconic String Quartet No. 5 by the Aizuir Quartet.

Noah Klarck, a company dancer, will also make his professional choreographic debut with “Orthodoxy,” a piece that explores the tension between structure and fluidity, set against a backdrop of piano works by Bach, Brahms, and Chopin.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Grinnell College for “See the Music.” Our shared values of excellence and innovation provide the backdrop for an extraordinary, immersive production, and we are excited that our debut performance for the Grinnell community so accurately reflects this commitment,” said Blaire Massa, CEO of Ballet Des Moines. “I hope this incredible evening is just the beginning of an ongoing relationship between Ballet Des Moines and the students and residents of Grinnell.”

The performance will be free for Grinnell College and Grinnell High School students with valid ID. A shuttle for Grinnell College students attending the event will depart the JRC at  6:30 p.m. Transportation back to JRC will be provided following the performance.

Masterclass Offered - postponed to a later date due to inclement weather 

In advance of the performance, Ballet Des Moines is also offering an exclusive dance masterclass led by professional company dancer Cameron Miller. The class is open to intermediate/advanced dancers throughout the community ages 16 and up, with faculty, staff, and adults welcome to participate. Space is limited, so registration is required. A later date will be announced soon. 

For more information or for tickets to the performance visit Ballet Des Moines. To register for the masterclass, email erin@balletdesmoines.org.