Madison Ballet Showcases Love and Inclusion in New ‘Love’ Performance

The Madison Ballet is presenting its winter show, 'Love', featuring six unique stories. This show is the brainchild of four diverse artists and is masterminded by the organization's Artistic and Executive Director, Ja'Malik. Focusing on various dimensions of love, the program deals with themes such as grief, farewells, and even celebrates same-sex relationships. Ja'Malik's intention is to emphasize that love knows no barriers.

Intricate Tales of Love and Loss

'Love' includes Ja'Malik's productions like 'Guitar Concerto', 'Farewell', and 'Dance Odyssey.' These performances blend classic melodies like 'Clair De Lune' and Spanish guitar music to weave stories of heartfelt emotion. 'Guitar Concerto', a three-part piece set to Oliver Davis's composition, was inspired by Ja'Malik's memories of Madrid. Meanwhile, 'Farewell' serves as a solo tribute to a departed friend, reflecting on the pain of parting. 'Dance Odyssey' celebrates the spirit of friendship and community, originally crafted for public performances with the Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra.

Breaking Traditional Boundaries

Stephanie Martinez, a guest choreographer with a decorated career, brings 'Something To Remember You By' to the stage, exploring the turbulent emotions experienced during grief. Her involvement also marks a significant step towards including more diverse voices in ballet, traditionally dominated by white men, specially behind the scenes in creative roles.

Further enriching the 'Love' repertoire are classical pieces like Marius Petipa's 'Paquita Suite', a balletic interpretation of wedding celebrations, and Richard Walters' 'Armistice', a poignant duet between two women, embodying the convictions that love transcends all boundaries.

Inviting a New Audience

Ja'Malik extends a special invitation to the younger generation and university students to watch 'Love', hoping to ignite the same passion for ballet that he experienced as a youth. With vibrant modern music elements interlaced with classic ballet, it's a fresh take designed to draw in young audiences. Affordable tickets and special student rush prices are made available to encourage attendance.

'Love' doesn't just entertain; it carries a message of progressiveness and the promise of a more inclusive ballet world. Ja'Malik envisions a future where ballet holds true to its roots while continuously evolving to represent diverse voices and stories of the 21st century.

The performance of 'Love' will take place from February 15 to 25 at the Overture Center for the Arts, offering a chance to witness a ballet that celebrates inclusion and the many facets of love.

inclusion, ballet, diversity