BalletNext, the innovative dance company founded by former American Ballet Theatre principal Michele Wiles, is set to take the stage in Salt Lake City with their latest production, aptly titled "Ballet Unleashed." This two-night event will be held at the Leona Wagner Black Box Theatre in the Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center on January 20 and 21, 2025. The performances promise a mix of classical ballet and contemporary influences, showcasing the evolution of dance and its ability to resonate with modern audiences. The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, as Wiles reflects on the significance of performing in Salt Lake City. "It is inspiring to perform in Salt Lake, and we’ve had huge responses the last two times we’ve been there," she said. Wiles, who has made a name for herself through her creative vision and choreography, expressed a sense of fulfillment about returning to Salt Lake. "It almost feels full-circle for me because it reminds me of New York Live Arts, a place I used to perform at when I first created BalletNext. The Leona Black Box brings my dancing to a new level and a new place, and it inspires me in different ways." "Ballet Unleashed" features a diverse repertoire, including Wiles' original works such as "Devil Wears Pointe Shoes," "Post," and excerpts from a reimagined version of the classic ballet "Swan Lake." These pieces, many of which were developed during Wiles' creative process in Park City, are set to take on fresh interpretations in the upcoming performances. "Some of the pieces we have performed before, and we created them here in Park City. It was like we were in labs, and they have taken on a new form," Wiles explained. Notable among the changes is the inclusion of Bashaun Williams, a guest artist who previously danced with the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company. His addition brings a new dynamic to the piece "Post," which is set to music by contemporary artist Post Malone. Wiles described the excitement of this collaboration, stating, "I’m excited because the piece has become another version since Bashaun has come in." This adaptation reflects the company's mission to blend traditional ballet with modern music and themes, making it more relatable to today's audiences. In another highlight, Williams will perform alongside BalletNext’s resident dancer Matthew Helms in an expanded-cast version of "Devil Wears Dance Shoes," which draws inspiration from Wiles' transition to life in Park City. The piece will now feature a total of 10 to 11 dancers, including six younger performers. Wiles noted, "We’ve performed this piece with the younger dancers, but we’ve never had another cowboy. But it works great because there is another male dancer who can do partner work." The music for "Devil Wears Pointe Shoes" is a vibrant mix, featuring tracks by Lindsey Stirling, Ennio Morricone, Elmer Bernstein, and Charlie Daniels, among others. The story element in Daniels’ piece, which recounts a fiddle showdown between a boy named Johnny and the Devil, adds a playful layer to the performance. "The little ones get to choose sides and cheer for either Johnny or the Devil, which is really fun," Wiles shared, emphasizing the interactive experience for young audience members. Wiles' innovative approach continues with the excerpts from "Swan Lake," which will be performed alongside contemporary compositions such as Sergey Ivanov's "Celestial Melody" and Rammstein's "Du Hast." Wiles articulated her goal of integrating modern music into ballet, stating, "I’ve had pianists come tell me that I need to dance to rock music, so I thought, why not rip the Band-Aid off and see what it’s like to dance to this music? I really feel music like that keeps us at this high level." The performance of "Ballet Unleashed" runs for approximately 55 minutes, and Wiles has arranged for post-performance Q&A sessions, which have become a popular aspect of her shows. "Most people stay for that because they are curious about this whole thing," she explained. These sessions not only foster engagement with the audience but also provide Wiles with the opportunity to reflect on her career and the evolution of BalletNext, which she describes as her third career in dance. Wiles expressed gratitude for her journey, which began at the American Ballet Theatre, transitioned to establishing BalletNext in New York, and is now flourishing in Utah. "Being in Utah is like my third career in dance. Sometimes the Q and A helps me realize the breadth of the career I’ve had, including all of the risks and changes," she said. Wiles has embraced her new home, stating, "I moved out here and didn’t know anybody, but I’ve met new people, and there are definitely new audiences in Salt Lake City. They want to see something ‘Unleashed.’" As BalletNext prepares for its performances, the anticipation continues to build among dance enthusiasts in Salt Lake City and beyond. With its innovative choreography and a fresh take on classical ballet, "Ballet Unleashed" promises to be a captivating experience that not only entertains but also challenges the conventions of traditional dance. For those interested in attending, tickets are available for both performances: - January 20, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. - January 21, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. Location: Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center’s Leona Wagner Black Box, 138 W. Broadway, Salt Lake City. Tickets can be purchased at my.arttix.org. In a world where dance continues to evolve, BalletNext stands at the forefront, demonstrating that ballet can indeed be unleashed, transforming classical narratives into contemporary expressions that resonate with diverse audiences.