2023/2024 Season
BALLET SPARTANBURG PARTNERS WITH MARTHA GRAHAM DANCE COMPANY
Ballet Spartanburg announces an extraordinary partnership with the world-renowned Martha Graham Dance Company as part of its 2023/2024 season. “Ballet Spartanburg will be one of the 100 partnerships for the 100th Anniversary of the Martha Graham Dance Company. We will present Martha Graham’s Suite from Appalachian Spring, from Appalachian Spring, music by Aaron Copland, April 2024. This is a tremendous opportunity for our ballet Company to dance this famous repertoire choreographed by the legendary Martha Graham.”
“This historic ballet amplifies our season and allows our community and beyond, the opportunity to learn about Martha Graham and how she created this piece, her vision of this unique story of a young couple traveling to settle the unsettled frontier, to experience her prolific storytelling through her quintessential dance technique and hear the Pulitzer Prize winning composition by Aaron Copland which was written for this ballet upon Graham’s request. To bring this piece to Spartanburg and to South Carolina for the first time is truly a dream come true. We anticipate sold-out performances-one school show which has already sold out.
THE SLEEPING BEAUTY OCTOBER 20-22, 2023 Enter a dreamland full of storybook magic and adventure with The Sleeping Beauty. Deep in a century-long slumber, the enchanting Aurora and her kingdom await the power of a true love’s kiss. The Sleeping Beauty entertains a host of magical characters—from the deliciously wicked fairy Caraboss to the benevolent woodland fairies, precious royal pages, the hilarious Puss-in-Boots, The White Cat, Little Red Riding Hood, Blue Bird and more. Sumptuous sets and new costumes will transport you into a world of fun and beauty. Choreographed and directed by Lona Gomez.
THE NUTCRACKER DECEMBER 8-10, 2023 The Nutcracker with Spartanburg Philharmonic is heralded as Spartanburg’s Most Beloved Christmas Event. Celebrated for over 3 decades, with Carlos Agudelo as choreographer and director, The Nutcracker is a multi-faceted artistic jewel which captures the hearts of young and old. Each season sparkles with new choreography, additions to costumes and this season, a new Nutcracker Market located in front of Twichell Auditorium to offer families the ultimate Nutcracker fun, shopping experience with photo opportunities, hot chocolate, music and more before entering the Auditorium. Become part of the Christmas tradition with The Nutcracker. Directed by Carlos Agudelo.
STUDIO SERIES II: THE COMPANY FEBRUARY 9 & 10, 2024 Last season, the Company presented new and fresh choreographic stories with each choreographer approaching their pieces with personal reflections and music which was distinct to their own voice. Astounding and intimate performances in the studios with champagne and nibbles create a memorable and unique evening of dance. Directed by Lona Gomez
MARTHA GRAHAM’S SUITE FROM APPALACHIAN SPRING MARCH 21, 23 & 24, 2024 Ballet Spartanburg is honored to present Suite from Appalachian Spring, from Martha Graham’s iconic ballet, Appalachian Spring. For the first time in South Carolina, this ballet will be presented by a local professional Company. With costumes and choreography, text and wording by Martha Graham, music by Aaron Copland, arranged by Janet Eber, Suite from Appalachian Spring embodies the early writings of the dance by Martha Graham and the Pulitzer Prize winning score of composer Aaron Copland. Mark your calendars now and purchase tickets for this incredible ballet directed by Lona Gomez.
CARMINA BURANA APRIL 13, 2024 ONE NIGHT ONLY Beautiful. Gripping. Dynamic. Set to the powerful music of German composer Carl Orff, Carmina Burana tells the story of the cycle of life and love. Based on original poems written by Bavarian monks in the 11th to 13th centuries, Carmina Burana’s riveting score performed by The Spartanburg Master Chorale & Orchestra Petrie School of Music at Converse University. Choreography by Carlos Agudelo highlights the strength of the Professional Company and the passion of dance. Noted as one of the most intense ballets of our century, Carmina Burana is a breathtaking and compelling finale of the 23/24 season.
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Carlos Agudelo, 2023 SC Governor's Award for an Individual
Ballet Spartanburg's Artistic Director, Carlos Agudelo, was awarded the South Carolina Governor's Award from the South Carolina Arts Commission on May 23, 2023, at the Chapman Cultural Center. The award was presented by Mr. David Platt, Executive Director of the South Carolina Arts Commission. "We recognize the unparalleled energy, enthusiasm, devotion and love for dance that Carlos has gifted to our community out of his passion for all to experience the arts for the past 32 years. We are overjoyed that Carlos has been recognized by the South Carolina Arts Commission, " Teresa S. Berline, Executive Director. "The South Carolina Arts Commission is an extraordinary organization in our state which promotes and advocates opportunities in the arts which values equality, access, diversity and inclusion. Ballet Spartanburg is honored by the support of the South Carolina Arts Commission and the recognition of Carlos Agudelo."