San Francisco Ballet

San Francisco Ballet's History

San Francisco Ballet, reputed as one of the top ballet companies in the world, is renowned for its history of innovation and boasts an exceptionally diverse repertoire. Founded in 1933 as the San Francisco Opera Ballet, it has evolved into one of the leading ballet institutions, presenting hair-raising live theatre events that continue to captivate audiences year after year.

Its historic journey began under the artistic direction of Harold Christensen, and later appointed his brothers, Willam and Lew Christensen. With the appointment of these brothers, it transformed over the years from a company serving primarily as an accompaniment to opera performances to a standalone ballet company. The San Francisco Ballet gained independent status in 1942, becoming the first professional ballet company in the United States.

The company's transformative path then took an exciting turn when it appointed its first international director, the English dancer and choreographer Michael Smuin, in 1973. It was not until 1986, however, when the appointment of current Artistic Director, Helgi Tomasson, catapulted the San Francisco Ballet to a new echelon of international prominence. Tomasson, a former principal dancer at the New York City Ballet, has been instrumental in enhancing the company’s repertoire by including new works from the world’s most sought-after choreographers.

The San Francisco Ballet's live performances are visually striking events that fully embody the beauty, grace, and power of ballet. The company holds numerous performances throughout the year with tickets becoming hot commodities for locals and tourists alike. The season traditionally begins with the company's remarkably beautiful rendition of Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, which is performed in December and has become a holiday tradition in San Francisco.

Each season's calendar features compelling traditional ballets, bold contemporary works, and innovative premieres. The company offers classical productions like Swan Lake and Sleeping Beauty while also showcasing the works of esteemed choreographers like Balanchine, Morris, Ratmansky, and Wheeldon. The San Francisco Ballet is noted for its commitment to new ballets, commissioning numerous works every year. In fact, it was the first company to perform a full-length production of Nutcracker in the United States, setting a precedent for other ballet companies.

San Francisco Ballet is also well-known for its biennial Dance Festival that features a series of contemporary and classical ballet performances over two weeks. These performances give ballet aficionados the delightful opportunity to experience a diverse range of exquisite choreography.

Access to tickets for this world-class ballet company is made easy through their website. In addition to regular tickets, the company also offers a variety of subscription packages tailored to different preferences and budgets. For those unable to attend in person, the company has ventured into digital performances, allowing patrons to enjoy performances from the comfort of their own homes.

Endeavoring to make ballet accessible to all, the company provides various audience engagement programs. These include pre-performance talks, meet-the-artist interviews, sensory-friendly ballet performances, and student matinees.

The San Francisco Ballet’s rich history, coupled with its commitment to innovation and education, make it a significant cultural institution. Its captivating live theatre events and accessible ticketing options have ensured ballet remains a beloved art form in San Francisco, continuing to enchant audiences with its elegance and artistry.

More About San Francisco Ballet

One of the most popular ballets presented by the company is Tchaikovsky's "The Nutcracker". This beloved classical ballet piece is traditionally performed during the holiday season. The music complements the exquisite choreography and accompanies the audience on a magical journey, making it a mesmerizing experience.

The live rendition of Prokofiev's "Romeo and Juliet" is another fan favorite. The music is renowned for its power and raw emotion, expertly translating the intensity of Shakespeare's tragic tale into sonorous notes. The San Francisco Ballet's live performance of this masterpiece has been a stunning spectacle that captures the hearts of audiences time and time again.

One cannot forget to mention Igor Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring”. This groundbreaking piece, famous for its revolutionary music, is always a highlight in the San Francisco Ballet’s live events. The vigorous rhythm and pulsating orchestration make the ballet an exhilarating experience for all.

Another popular ballet music in the repertoire of San Francisco Ballet is Adolphe Adam’s score for "Giselle". This romantic masterpiece, combined with the mesmerizing choreography of the ballet, creates a dreamlike performance that enchants the audience.

The ballet company's live events are also a platform for contemporary compositions. For instance, "Borderlands", set to music by British composer Joel Cadbury and British music producer Paul Stoney, is a ballet that pushes the boundaries of classical ballet and has been highly acclaimed for its innovative approach.

When it comes to live events and ticketing, San Francisco Ballet offers a variety of options. They provide season packages, single show tickets, and even student and group discounts, making their performances more accessible to a wider audience. Their live events usually take place at the War Memorial Opera House, a beautiful venue that heightens the experience of the ballet.

Moreover, in response to the pandemic, the company has ventured into digital performances, creating the opportunity for audiences around the globe to experience their beautiful ballets from the comfort of their homes. However, these digital shows haven’t diminished the popularity of their live events. Fans of the ballet are always eager to secure tickets for the chance to experience the magic of a live performance.

In conclusion, the San Francisco Ballet's live performances are not only a spectacle of skilled dancers performing to beautiful music but also a testament to the enduring appeal of classical ballet music. The popular live songs played during these performances continue to attract audiences, making each show a unique and memorable event.