FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ballet Arkansas Announces Thang Dao as First Choreographer for World Premiere at Nouveau Program
April Performances to Debut at Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts
New York City, NY — October 18, 2024 — TDDC is excited to announce internationally renowned choreographer Thang Dao is one of the three distinguished artists to present a world premiere as part of Ballet Arkansas’s highly anticipated Nouveau program. Set to debut at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on April 25 and 26, 2025, Nouveau will feature innovative works that push the boundaries of contemporary ballet.
Dao is known for his emotionally charged and deeply innovative choreography. He will create a new work for a small ensemble of Ballet Arkansas dancers. His commitment to advancing ballet as a relevant and evolving art form in the contemporary landscape will drive the creation of this piece, reflecting his passion for redefining tradition through modern movement and storytelling.
“I’m thrilled to collaborate with Ballet Arkansas and be a part of the Nouveau program,” Dao said. “The Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts provides an inspiring backdrop for this creation, and I look forward to crafting a work that invites audiences to connect with the dancers and the shared human experience. This piece will be about the transformative power of community, resilience, and how we navigate the complexities of the world through movement.”
Dao’s work has earned widespread acclaim, having been featured by companies such as Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, Ballet Austin, and Ailey II. His choreographic voice is recognized for its emotional depth and innovative structure, captivating audiences around the world. A 2008 Princess Grace Choreography Fellow and 2017 1st Prize winner at the DAP Festival in Italy, Dao continues to push the boundaries of contemporary dance.
Significance of the Nouveau Program
Ballet Arkansas’ Nouveau program represents a bold new chapter in the company’s evolution. Designed to spotlight world premieres by visionary choreographers, Nouveau aims to bridge classical technique with contemporary innovation, offering fresh, dynamic performances for a modern audience. Michael Fothergill, Executive and Artistic Director of Ballet Arkansas, emphasizes the program’s role in shaping the future of dance in the region.
“Nouveau is an essential part of our artistic vision,” said Fothergill. “It allows us to showcase diverse choreographic voices while giving our dancers the opportunity to expand their artistry. Thang Dao’s work, in particular, will be a highlight of this season, bringing new energy and contemporary relevance to the Ballet Arkansas repertoire.”
Context of Collaboration in Contemporary Ballet
Dao’s collaboration with Ballet Arkansas reflects a growing trend in contemporary ballet, where choreographers explore more abstract, interdisciplinary works to engage diverse audiences. This partnership aligns with a broader movement within the ballet world to innovate beyond traditional forms, making dance accessible and relevant to 21st-century viewers. Dao’s signature style, rooted in both classical technique and modern exploration, represents this exciting shift in the art form.
Performance Dates & Ticket Information
Nouveau will take place at the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts on April 25 and 26, 2025, with performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:00 PM. Tickets can be purchased through Ballet Arkansas’ website at www.balletarkansas.org. Early booking is encouraged due to limited seating.
About Ballet Arkansas:
Ballet Arkansas is the state’s premier professional ballet company, dedicated to enriching the cultural life of Arkansas through excellence in dance performance and education. As a leader in the region’s arts community, Ballet Arkansas continues to innovate, bringing the best of classical and contemporary ballet to audiences of all ages.
For more information, please visit www.balletarkansas.org or contact derekwynnter@gmail.com ..