The Benedum Center
Through February 15
8 p.m., 2 p.m., 7:30 p.m.
It’s an age-old fairytale that’s been adapted for film, television and even a video game. This month, Pittsburghers will be among the first to experience Beauty and the Beast in an entirely new way.
Families will meet a mysterious cadre of stags, nymphs and enchanted creatures in Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre‘s (PBT) local premiere of this newly acquired production that shares a timeless tale of inner beauty.
Originally created for San Francisco Ballet in 1958, and restaged in 1982, the production features a sweeping score of 22 works by legendary composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, exquisitely crafted costumes and head pieces by José Verona and choreography by Lew Christensen—widely considered be the first American-born premier male dancer. Breathing new life into Christensen’s imaginative Beauty and her Beast, the compelling interpretation is restaged by PBT’s artistic director Terrence S. Orr.
Underscoring its ties to the ancient Greek myth of Cupid and Psyche, the show’s two-week run includes special Valentine’s Day performances. Audiences will be captivated by a stunning backdrop featuring the austere castle, enchanted forest and magnificent ballroom, which all help to set the scene as “Beauty discovers the tenderness beneath the Beast’s intimidating exterior.”
Don’t miss Family Pointe on Saturday, February 7th at 1 p.m. The pre-performance program for children of all ages features an interactive discussion and demo of various aspects of the ballet.
Families seeking a sensory-friendly experience will want to catch the ballet on Friday, February 13th at 11 a.m.
