Is Jewels a Contemporary Ballet?

Ballet

Jewels is a contemporary ballet created by legendary choreographer George Balanchine in 1967. It was commissioned by the New York City Ballet and has become one of the most performed and renowned ballets of all time. Jewels is considered to be a milestone in modern ballet, and its influence can be seen in many current works.

The ballet is comprised of three acts, each representing a different type of jewellery: Emeralds, Rubies, and Diamonds. Each act has its own distinct style and musical score, providing an emotional journey for the audience.

Emeralds is characterized by lush green costumes, gentle classical music, and a graceful pas de deux (duet). The second act, Rubies, features bright red outfits with a jazz-influenced score by Igor Stravinsky that propels the action forward with its sharp energy. Finally, Diamonds is set to Tchaikovsky’s majestic music and features intricate pas de deux that evoke the sparkling beauty of diamonds.

The choreography for Jewels also sets it apart from other ballets of its era. Balanchine incorporated elements from neoclassical as well as modern dance into his work, creating a unique fusion that was unlike anything audiences had seen before. His use of space was also innovative; rather than relying on traditional stage formations such as corps de ballet or crescents, he employed more abstract patterns that were designed to emphasize particular movements or steps.

Jewels has been praised by critics for its timelessness and relevance to today’s audiences. Its mix of classical technique with modern influences makes it accessible to both seasoned ballet-goers as well as novices just discovering the art form. Additionally, because it is not based on a particular narrative or story line—unlike many other traditional ballets—it can be appreciated without any prior knowledge or understanding of dance history or terminology.

In conclusion, Jewels is indeed a contemporary ballet in every sense of the word; from its innovative use of space to its mix of classical technique with modern influences, it stands out from other works in the genre and continues to entertain audiences around the world today.