A Celebration of Dance: Minnesota Ballet’s 60th Anniversary with Sleeping Beauty
The Minnesota Ballet is celebrating its remarkable 60th anniversary with a special presentation of the timeless classic, Sleeping Beauty. Set to take place from March 13-15 at the Marshall Performing Arts Center on the campus of the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD), this production promises an enchanting experience for all attendees.
Artistic Director Karl von Rabenau refers to Sleeping Beauty as the “penultimate classical ballet,” emphasizing the significance of this performance in the company’s history. “We’re celebrating 60 years; why not go for it?” he stated, acknowledging the ambitious challenge for a smaller company like the Minnesota Ballet to take on such a grand production. However, it presents a fantastic opportunity for dancers to immerse themselves in this cherished classical work.
In a special twist, students from the ballet school will join professional dancers on stage, including the lead role of ‘Aurora,’ played by Brianna Crockett. Crockett expressed her enthusiasm, saying, “I’ve had the opportunity to work on this role a couple of other times. It’s been wonderful to build on that experience and find ways to make it more authentic for myself and the audience—emanating joy and happiness is my goal.”
Additionally, the Minnesota Ballet has received support from the Minnesota State Arts Board to host a sensory-friendly performance on Saturday afternoon. This unique adaptation condenses the traditional three-hour ballet into a one-hour show, designed to create a casual and inviting environment. With lights up and a relaxed atmosphere, this performance caters perfectly to families and individuals looking for a more accommodating theatre experience.
Tickets for this extraordinary event are available online. Showtimes are scheduled for 7 p.m. on March 13, and 3 p.m. on March 14-15 at the Marshall Performing Arts Center. Don’t miss your chance to experience this magical journey through one of ballet’s most beloved stories.
For those interested in further enriching their community experience, check out related options in our section on Community Events and discover more about our highlights in Seen on The Lift.
Conclusion
The Minnesota Ballet’s presentation of Sleeping Beauty is not only a celebration of their 60 years of artistic dedication but also an opportunity for the community to embrace the transformative power of dance. Whether you are a dancer, a parent, or simply someone who appreciates the arts, this performance will offer something special. Make sure to secure your tickets and join in the celebration of this classical masterpiece!
