The Segerstrom Center for the Arts’ 2024-25 season is bringing dancers from across the country and beyond to the Costa Mesa stage.
With its dance series, the center aims to “bring the most talented artists and shows that demonstrate artistic excellence, push creative boundaries, and resonate with the vibrant cultural tapestry of our Orange County community,” said Clara Cruz, senior director of communications.
And they speak to the balance between tradition and novelty that the center is known for, she said.
“Novelty companies such as Complexions and Alonzo King LINES (fuse) classical and contemporary techniques,” Cruz said, “While American Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ and Miami City Ballet’s ‘Swan Lake’ will bring the tradition.
“These choices reflect our commitment to honoring both contemporary breakthroughs and beloved classics.”
When asked what she considers a show that really shouldn’t be missed, Cruz had one recommendation in particular.
“The U.S. premiere of American Ballet Theatre’s ‘A Winter’s Tale’ will be a captivating adaptation of Shakespeare’s enchanting play,” she said, “bringing to life themes of love, redemption and transformation through innovative choreography and stunning visuals.
“(It)will leave a lasting impression and deserves to be celebrated for its artistic merit and imaginative vision,” she said.
Here are the upcoming shows on the Segerstrom Center’s calendar:
Nov. 9: Sergio Bernal Dance Company
The acclaimed former Spanish National Ballet head dancer comes to Segerstrom with a new routine that combines the grace of ballet with the speed of flamenco, creating a new piece that pushes both genres in new directions.
Dec. 13-22: American Ballet Theater’s “The Nutcracker”
The beloved holiday ballet tells the story of Clara, a girl who receives a nutcracker as a Christmas present. That night, it comes to life as a prince, and Clara travels with it through a magical land of sweets, where she encounters several mythical creatures. This new version of the ballet, which Alexi Ramsky created, is particularly impressive, as it uses costumes from Tony winner Richard Hudson, with the Pacific Symphony performing the score and more than 100 performers taking part in the performance.
Jan. 18: Martha Graham Dance Company
The company is celebrating its 100th anniversary and will showcase the series “Dance of the Mind,” centered around Graham’s psychological work and featuring her collaborator of many years, Isamu Noguchi, examining the relationship between the two.
Feb. 7: Alonzo King LINES Ballet
The ballet will present two pieces, 2018’s “The Collective Agreement” and 2013’s “Concerto for Two Violins.” The Collective Agreement will explore themes of unity and is notable for featuring piano recordings from jazz artist Jason Moran. “Concerto for Two Violins,” an interpretation of the original Bach piece, will feature analogies for human connections.
Feb. 15-16: Twyla Twap 60th Anniversary
Twap is notable for being the only dancer to confront the “Diabelli Variations,” a dance based on a Beethoven piece that combines many movement styles, including ballet, jazz, and modern. The group will also perform a new work from Philip Glass, “Aguas Da Amazonia,” alongside the “Third Coast Percussion,” a piece using personalized instruments.
Related links
Segerstrom Center’s Plaza Pass to outdoor entertainment
South Coast Repertory announces its 2024-25 season
‘We are here!’ screams new Orange County Museum of Art
How to spend a day at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts for less than $75
April 3-6: American Ballet Theater’s “A Winter’s Tale”
Based on the Shakespeare play of the same name, “A Winter’s Tale” tells a story of jealousy, love and redemption. The acclaimed performance will have music from Joby Talbot and designs from Bob Crowley.
March 22: Ballet Folklorico Mexico
The Ballet Folklorico Mexico De Amilia Hernandez celebrates Mexico’s history from pre-Columbian times to the modern day. The company has choreographed more than 120 dances, and its titular founder has researched and performed many Mexican dances, several of which are still showcased today. More than 45 million people have watched their performances, and it serves as the top group of its kind in Mexico.
June 19-22: Miami City Ballet’s “Swan Lake”
“Swan Lake” is about Prince Sigfried, who loves Princess Odette. But she is under Baron Von Rotheart’s control, who curses her to become a swan during the day and a human at night. Only true love can break the spell, and Rotheart will do anything to stop it. The Miami City Ballet will feature more than 50 dancers in its version, as well as a live orchestra.
For more information about the performances, show times and tickets, visit scfta.org.
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