For close to 30 years, André Lewis, Artistic Director & CEO, has held a bold artistic vision and been the driving force behind innovative works and classical recreations at Canada’s Royal Winnipeg Ballet. At the same time, he has maintained a distinctly Canadian identity in the repertoire shared with generations of dance enthusiasts in Manitoba, across the country and around the globe. And the 2023-24 line-up is no different. The upcoming season has been designed to honour Lewis’ legacy, while presenting inspiring works to audiences of all ages.
Lewis’ desire to dedicate a lifetime to teaching, creating and performing exceptional dance is not something he takes for granted. Lewis sums it up best:” It is an honour and a privilege to play a role in an art form that can awaken emotions and delight the senses – and many times change someone’s life journey. It is my passion to do what I do – it does not feel like work at all – it is living the dream and sharing the dream with all of you!”
SNOW WHITE*
Centennial Concert Hall
Wednesday, September 27, 2023 - Sunday, October 1, 2023
A new acquisition that showcases everything that André Lewis and the RWB does best – bold character acting, creative interpretations of familiar stories, and larger-than-life staging and costumes.
Experience the Canadian première of this mature twist on the original Brothers’ Grimm story of Snow White. Step into an enchanted narrative filled with strong, contemporary movement and characters magnificently costumed by Jean Paul Gauthier. The narcissistic, seductive Queen seeks power in her beauty and will stop at nothing to hold on to that influence – even at the expense of her ingenue daughter-in-law Snow White. Set to Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, Snow White’s journey through the stages of her life mirrors the music’s evolution from optimism to depravity and finally to triumph.
*Rated PG-13 for sexual content
NUTCRACKER
Centennial Concert Hall
Thursday, December 21 - Saturday, December 30, 2023
This gem in the Lewis legacy leaves the country with a holiday tradition inspired by Canada. A uniquely Canadian spin on the beloved holiday story makes our Nutcracker a nostalgic treasure that charms audiences of all ages, year after year. Young Clara’s dreams come to life in spectacular fashion as her nutcracker transforms into a gallant soldier to defend her from the army of the Mouse King, with majestic Mounties battling the mischievous Mice. The duo journey through a shimmering winter wonderland filled with dancing snowflakes and adorable polar bears to the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tchaikovsky’s iconic score sets the stage for marvelous turn-of-the-century costumes and sets. Don’t miss the hijinks of fan-favourite Filbert the Bear during the family party!
ROMEO & JULIET
Centennial Concert Hall
Wednesday, February 14 to Sunday, February 18, 2024
Choreographer Rudi van Dantzig worked closely to pass the legacy of this work to Lewis, who has since become an in-demand stager for the production the world over.
Fall in love all over again with Shakespeare’s timeless romantic tragedy that remains a masterclass in balletic storytelling. Star-crossed lovers Romeo and Juliet defy the odds – and their feuding families – in pursuit of their happy ending while navigating the politics and intrigue of Renaissance Italy. Their love becomes their undoing as fate conspires to keep them apart. From innocence to tragedy to redemption, these larger-than-life characters demand remarkable acting that make this production one of the RWB’s crowning achievements. The splendour of sixteenth-century Verona unfolds in Toer van Schayk’s lush sets and costumes, complementing Rudi van Dantzig’s inventive choreography and sword fighting.
CARMINA BURANA WITH WORLD PREMIERE (CAMERON FRASER-MONROE)
Centennial Concert Hall
Wednesday, April 24 to Sunday, April 28, 2024
This work is a nod to André Lewis’ dedication to working with international and Canadian choreographers. Since he introduced it into the repertoire in 2002, Carmina Burana has become one of the RWB’s most requested performances.
A feast for the senses that pairs sensual, powerful choreography with Carl Off’s masterpiece Carmina Burana symphony. Unbridled passion and highly physical technique express raw emotion that transcends the need for a story. Choreographer Mauricio Wainrot’s artfully staged vignettes capture the spirit of the titular score’s five movements, oscillating between the erratic, romantic, and lustful as they celebrate community and the joys of life.
Audiences will also be treated to an extraordinary piece from the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s new Choreographer in Residence, Cameron Fraser-Monroe, making its world premiere on the mainstage – and showcasing a bright future for the RWB as we continue to innovate through dance.
SPOTLIGHT
Manitoba Theatre for Young People
Thursday, May 23, 2024 to Sunday, May 26, 2024
Up and coming dancers in the RWB Professional Division present excerpts of beloved favourites and new works that will captivate audiences. Months of intensive training culminate in a show-stopping performance that shines a spotlight on the determination and heart these young artists bring to the art of ballet.
ON THE EDGE Featuring Four Last Songs
RWB Founders’ Studio
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 – Friday, June 7, 2024
The stars of tomorrow deliver exhilarating performances highlighting the versatility of the Anna McCowan-Johnson Aspirants. Immerse yourself in an intimate and engaging series of dances delighting fans of classical and contemporary dance alike. From timeless classics to daring new creations, anchored by the emotional journey of Rudi van Dantzig’s Four Last Songs, On the Edge will celebrate the RWB’s artistic legacy and continued innovation.
This is a glorious season that will be talked about and remembered for years to come…check out rwb.org for more information about renewing your subscription or buying another one as a gift for someone special in your life who may appreciate the arts too! You can also call 204.956.0183 to secure your favourite seats!
We hope you will share in our celebration of André Lewis and the new season, where you can experience living the dream moments in your own life journey through the art of dance!
