‘Raymonda’ highlights student talent June 3-4 at the Madison Center for the Arts
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
The School of Ballet Arizona and the Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestras are thrilled to come together once again to present ‘Raymonda’ at The Madison Center for the Arts June 3-4.
This production demonstrates and celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of both organizations and event promoters give audiences the rare opportunity to experience a show by the next generation of performing artists in Phoenix. Both organizations are proud to provide their students with the distinct training ability to perform alongside one another.
Get a glimpse of the progression in ballet and musical training from intermediate to advanced-level students on the verge of professional careers, as they perform this timeless ballet. ‘Raymonda’ tells the story of a young countess who must navigate the complexities of love and loyalty in medieval France. With stunning costumes, intricate choreography, and an unforgettable score by Alexander Glazunov, Raymonda captures the attention and hearts of many.
“It’s an experience like no other, a rite of passage in every dancer’s career,” said Maria Simonetti, the director of The School of Ballet Arizona. “When I was introduced to Matthew Kasper [artistic director of Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestras], I knew we could make magic happen. As we approach our fourth combined performance, I am so proud of all that we have accomplished and the incredible experience this continued partnership has provided our students.”
‘Raymonda’ highlights student talent June 3-4 at the Madison Center for the Arts
The School of Ballet Arizona is the only professional school to offer live music through a youth symphony orchestra with its performances.
In addition to performing works choreographed for professional companies, students have the unique opportunity to perform with live music for both its spring and fall showcases that will help prepare them for professional level productions. From primary to pre-professional levels, each student will showcase their talents and training from the wide variety of classes available at SBAZ.
Young musicians in the Youth Symphony enjoy weekly rehearsals led by world-class conductors, sectionals coached by professional musicians, weekend retreats, and the opportunity to performs before thousands of audience members in the highest-quality venues throughout the Valley.
Through this partnership, these musicians can also hone their skill for playing in time with the dancers.
The School of Ballet Arizona has partnered with the Phoenix Youth Symphony Orchestra for the inaugural performance of Swan Lake with three sold-out performances at the Desert Botanical Garden in May of 2021. In addition, this partnership continued with The Sleeping Beauty in May of 2022 and Ballet Arizona’s Fall Showcase in November 2022.
Tickets for ‘Raymonda’ go on sale May 8 and are available HERE.
