Dancing Through Time: Ballets Jazz Montréal’s 50th Anniversary Celebration with ESSENCE, Feb 9-10

As Ballets Jazz Montréal (BJM) reaches a remarkable milestone of 50 years, the prestigious contemporary dance repertory company is set to dazzle audiences with a landmark program, ESSENCE. Scheduled to grace the stage at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, this monumental event will take place on Friday, February 9, 2024, at 8:00 pm, and on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at both 2:00 pm and 8:00 pm. 

ESSENCE is not just a tribute to Ballets Jazz Montréal’s illustrious past but serves as a testament to the company’s evolution and a bold leap into the future. Under the visionary artistic direction of Alexandra Damiani, the program aims to strike a harmonious balance between BJM’s DNA and a new artistic vision, paving the way for the next half-century of dance innovation.

The highlight of ESSENCE is the presentation of two Philadelphia premieres that promise to captivate and inspire. Crystal Pite’s critically acclaimed “Ten Duets on a Theme of Rescue” takes the audience on a journey through classic storylines, inviting them to contemplate who exactly rescues whom. Additionally, company member Ausia Jones contributes “We Can’t Forget About What’s His Name,” a poignant exploration of uncertainty’s impact on moments of connection.

Completing this exquisite repertoire is Aszure Barton’s “Les Chambres des Jacques,” described by The New York Times as “full of surprise and humor, emotion and pain.” With a carefully curated selection of performances, ESSENCE promises an unforgettable experience for both seasoned dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

About Ballets Jazz Montréal

Founded in 1972 by Geneviève Salbaing, Eva Von Genscy, and Eddy Toussaint, BJM has solidified its place as a leading contemporary dance company. The company’s commitment to creating, producing, and presenting innovative works has earned it international acclaim. Under the guidance of renowned choreographers like Crystal Pite, Aszure Barton, and Benjamin Millepied, BJM has cultivated a repertoire that is both exclusive and accessible, reflecting the excellence of its performance.

Throughout its 50-year journey, BJM has been a beacon of Quebec dance to the world, offering explosive, original, and accessible artistic products. With a roster of influential choreographers and a dedication to pushing boundaries, the company continues to shape the global dance landscape.

A Legacy of Leadership

The artistic direction of BJM has seen notable figures, each contributing to the company’s evolution. Founder Geneviève Salbaing led with passion for over 20 years, laying the foundation for BJM’s success. Louis Robitaille, appointed in 1998, redirected the company toward a more curious audience, exploring new choreographic forms. In June 2021, Alexandra Damiani took the helm, ensuring BJM’s mission and vision persist into the future.

A Global Ambassador of Dance

With over 2,600 performances in 68 countries and an audience exceeding 2.8 million, BJM stands as a prominent ambassador of Quebec dance and artistic vitality. The company has received prestigious awards, including the 2016 Prix Rideau Hommage for its impact on Quebec stages and the 2020 Prix de la danse de Montréal for international dissemination.

As BJM continues its legacy of exploration, connection, and boundary-pushing, ESSENCE marks a pivotal moment in the company’s history. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the convergence of tradition and innovation as Ballets Jazz Montréal takes the stage with ESSENCE at the Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts.

ESSENCE
Friday, February 9, 2024, at 8:00 pm
Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 2:00 pm
Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 8:00 pm
Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts|
Ticket Information and Booking: Ballets Jazz Montréal – ESSENCE

Come join the celebration as Ballets Jazz Montréal unveils the essence of dance, tradition, and innovation in a spectacular performance that promises to be a defining moment in the world of contemporary dance.