American Ballet Theatre Makes Its First Visit To Phoenix

PHOENIX, AZ — American Ballet Theatre's studio company is making its first-ever stop in Phoenix this weekend for a one-night-only show.

The show will feature a wide range of pieces from solos to group numbers and from classical to modern pieces.

“It’s a mix of the most classical and brand new, contemporary and modern pieces,” said American Ballet Theatre dancer, Tillie Glatz. “Whoever goes to watch will find something they love.”

American Ballet Theatre is based in New York, but travels more than any other ballet company, having stopped in more than 136 cities in 50 countries. The company is currently on its first tour since the start of the pandemic.

The company's premiere Phoenix performance is set for 7 p.m. Sunday at The Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th St. Tickets are $35-$65.

The show starts with the challenging classical piece, "Grand Pas Classique" and ends with "For What Is it All Worth," an upbeat, contemporary piece that Glatz described as "very different than the rest of our repertoire."

Glatz plays the character of Reality in "Beyond Belief," a whimsical group piece in the show that features six gods and goddesses coming to life and dancing. Glatz also dances in "For What Is It All Worth," another group piece that starts out with a solo to the spoken words of choreographer, Hope Boykin.

The show also includes several duets, known as pas de deux in the dance world, such as the exciting and quick "Stars and Stripes" choreographed by George Balanchine, and a piece from "Known by Heart," choreographed by Twyla Tharp.

“Everything presented is top-notch and will leave you wanting to see more,” Glatz said.

Glatz, who is from Virginia, is only 18 years old but this is her third year with the company. This will be her first time in Arizona and she's excited to see a cactus and learn more about Native American culture.

She has the goal of visiting all 50 states and she's well on her way, with more than 30 states already under her belt.