Ballet West is presenting a new biennial program with Works from Within, featuring world premiere pieces choreographed by five company dancers. This unique opportunity showcases the creative talents within Ballet West’s own ranks by providing artists with resources to develop original choreographic works. Among the featured artists is returning Principal Artist Jenna Rae Herrera, who rejoins the company after her maternity leave.
“The art of choreography is the one art that cannot be fully accomplished alone. I built this program to give our artists access to dancers, time, space, and all manner of production elements,” says Ballet West Artistic Director Adam Sklute.
The program features new works from Principal Artists Emily Adams and Katlyn Addison, who have previously created pieces for the company, alongside debuts from Demi-Soloists Nicole Fannéy and Vinicius Lima. The program also includes a new collaboration from Company Artist Jazz Khai Bynum with guest artists from the Utah Valley University Repertory Ballet Ensemble.
Each choreographer has been involved in every aspect of production, from music selection to costume design and lighting. Some have even commissioned original musical compositions for their pieces. The productions include Andromeda, a dramatic ballet inspired by Greek mythology, exploring themes of royal pride, divine wrath, and enduring love. Another piece delves into the emotional territories of togetherness and loss, reflecting on shared memories and the enduring power of love.
Bynum’s aptly titled With Feeling draws inspiration from jazz music, celebrating moments of peace, freedom, and joy. Turning to choreography has become an unexpected but natural extension of Bynum’s artistry during the process.
“It has helped me find freedom in my movement,” says Bynum. “Technique always seems so separate from dancing, but lately I’ve really been able to push myself beyond a clean line or a perfect pirouette with all the in-between things that make a combination a little dance.”
Tickets for Works from Within are now available at balletwest.org or by calling 801-869-6900.
ABOUT BALLET WEST
BALLET WEST, led by Artistic Director Adam Sklute since 2007, has been celebrated for innovation and excellence for over 60 years. Based in Salt Lake City, it presents classical masterpieces, historic works like America’s longest-running Nutcracker, and groundbreaking creations with unparalleled artistic standards. The 24/25 Season is generously sponsored by Salt Lake Zoo, Arts & Parks, George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, and Intermountain Health.
