PBT News
PBT Completes Live Music Appeal
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) is pleased to announce that its $6 million Live Music Appeal, which was launched at the start of the organization’s 50th season in 2019, has been achieved. This momentous occasion, which was accomplished under the leadership of outgoing Executive Director Harris Ferris, ensures that the PBT Orchestra will provide live music at PBT performances for the next 50 years and beyond.
“When this important campaign appeal was announced in the fall of 2019 no one could have predicted that within 6 months the season would be closing due to COVID-19,” says Harris Ferris. “I am proud to announce that friends of PBT can rest assured that the current level of orchestral music will continue to be a part of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s annual season.”
“This transformational gift of 50 years’ live music both delivers on our mission of creating extraordinary ballet experiences and ensures organizational sustainability,” says PBT Board Chair Mary McKinney Flaherty. “This would not be possible without Harris’s vision; the financial support of our anonymous donor, leading foundations and numerous individuals; and, of course, the skill and artistry of all of our amazing PBT Orchestra musicians.”
Since 2010, a single individual, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has been instrumental in supporting two to three programs every season with the PBT Orchestra. In support of PBT’s Live Music Appeal, this same individual pledged a $3 million gift to double every donation made to live music since the appeal was launched in October 2019. “We are deeply grateful for the anonymous donor’s support, along with several leading foundations who contributed to this goal, including The Hillman Foundation, Hilda M. Willis Foundation, Heinz Endowments, Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation and so many other organizations and individuals,” Ferris says.
The announcement of this achievement was formally recognized at PBT’s launch party of Open Air: A Series in Celebration of the Performing Arts on Thursday, June 9. Open Air was hosted this year in a picturesque setting overlooking the beautiful Allegheny River in Sharpsburg, due to the generosity of and partnership with The Mosites Company, which owns the 52-acre property.
Both Open Air and the success of the PBT’s Live Music Appeal come at the end of Harris Ferris’ successful 15 year tenure as executive director of PBT, during which he fostered a harmonious relationship with the PBT Orchestra. The completion of the Live Music Appeal is a remarkable, crowning achievement in Ferris’ legacy at PBT.
“The musicians of the PBT Orchestra are deeply grateful to the donors and patrons of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre for believing what we have always believed: great ballet deserves great live music. We look forward to being an integral part of PBT every season for many years to come,” says PBT Orchestra Oboist Cynthia Anderson.
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Susan Jaffe Announces Move to American Ballet Theatre
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Susan Jaffe Announces Move to American Ballet Theatre
Effective December 2022, the Former ABT Principal Dancer Will Return to the NYC Company as Artistic Director
PITTSBURGH, PA (May 9, 2022) – Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Susan Jaffe announced this morning that she has been named Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre, where she spent more than 30 years of her career. She will begin her new role at ABT in December. PBT remains in an excellent position to further realize the company’s vision and mission.
“What a profound honor it is for me to come back home to lead the artistic helm of American Ballet Theatre,” says Ms. Jaffe. “I have experienced so many iterations of my career at ABT. I was a student, second company member, main company member, teacher in the school, advisor to the chairman and a director of repertoire for this company. However, I wouldn’t have been able to take on this new challenge without everything I accomplished at PBT. It is an outstanding organization.”
“We are grateful for the contributions Susan has made to PBT,”says PBT Board Chair Mary McKinney Flaherty. “I look forward to working with the executive search committee to identify the next artistic director.”
Ms. Jaffe is PBT’s sixth artistic director in the company’s 53-year history. From the organization’s founding in 1969, PBT has evolved into a critically acclaimed company with international reach.
Her tenure featured many artistic achievements, including:
● Choreographing a new Swan Lake that debuted last Friday
● Stewarding PBT’s presence during the COVID-19 pandemic and spearheading
the creation of a robust library of collaborative and innovative digital programs,
including Fireside Nutcracker which won three Telly Awards
● Launching the Open Air: A Series in Celebration of the Performing Arts outdoor
festival in partnership with executive director, Harris Ferris, where she debuted
Bolero, her first original piece of choreography for PBT, which was also
performed at the Carnegie Museum of Art’s Hall of Sculpture
● Guiding a successful return to the stage with Season Premiere with the PBT
Orchestra in October 2021
● Promoting innovative and classical works by leading choreographers, including a
showcase of five female choreographers at Here + Now in March 2022
● Launching a collaborative program between Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School and
Point Park University in which graduate students of PBT School can receive
academic instruction from Point Park and earn a B.F.A. in dance in two years
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Announces Its 2022 – 2023 Season
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s Artistic Director Susan Jaffe announced an exciting lineup of shows in store for the 2022 – 2023 season at a press conference this morning. From the works of internationally acclaimed choreographers and modern masters to the spine-chilling Dracula, wonderfully romantic The Sleeping Beauty and more, Jaffe carefully selected shows to excite everyone in her second full season.
“As I considered this season, I chose fresh, bold and challenging works to excite audiences with the art of ballet,” says Jaffe. “Having a mixture of the master works, the classics, dramatic work and innovation is how we keep the art form moving forward.”
“I believe that offering our audiences extraordinary choreography and good dancing will bring them back to the theater time and again, and this season’s shows offer an exceptional mixture of classical, provocative and innovative performances,” says Jaffe.
Tickets to each performance are available now for PBT subscribers, who enjoy first-choice access to prime seats, 20% savings over single tickets and an array of subscriber exclusives, including free ticket exchanges. Learn more at pbt.org/subscribe. Single tickets go on sale August 31, 2022 and start at $29. Groups of 10+ save up to 50% over regularly priced tickets. For The Nutcracker, discounts start for groups of 8+. Learn more at pbt.org/groups.
PBT’s 2022 – 2023 Season
Storytelling in Motion
October 6 – 9, 2022 | August Wilson African American Cultural Center
Choreography: Nacho Duato, Helen Pickett and Goyo Montero | Music: Mixed repertory
The 22 – 23 season kicks off with a taste of the world in Pittsburgh, highlighting internationally acclaimed choreographers whose work will excite audiences with innovative, thought-provoking and athletic performances. Nacho Duato’s Duende, which means “elf” in Spanish, lives up to its name with sculptural and otherworldly choreography keenly adapted to Debussy’s ethereal score. Helen Pickett’s The Exiled takes a departure from the ballet norms with a dramatic story that examines the complexity of human morality through a combination of ballet and narration. Finally, Goyo Montero’s Alrededor No Hay Nada pushes the boundaries of human physicality with this stirring and poetic piece that showcases the dancers’ athleticism.
The Nutcracker
December 9 – 28, 2022 | Benedum Center
Choreography and Concept: Terrence S. Orr | Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky
In this distinctly Pittsburgh production of a holiday classic, PBT’s The Nutcracker follows Marie, her Nutcracker prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy on a journey into the Land of Enchantment. Five fanciful scenes, more than 150 unique costumes and Tchaikovsky’s enduring score make The Nutcracker a can’t-miss holiday tradition.
Dracula
February 10 – 12, 2023 | Benedum Center
Choreography: Michael Pink | Music: Philip Feeney
Fall under the spell of one of literature’s most entrancing characters in this theatrical production of Dracula. Michael Pink’s masterful storytelling shines in the choreography as each movement progresses the plot forward in this spine-chilling dance drama. Exquisite costumes, resplendent scenery and a dramatic score will immerse audiences in this edge-of-your-seat gothic tale of bloodlust and suspense that exhilarates novice ballet-goers and aficionados alike. Be sure to reserve your seats quickly — this production is an international success that sells out wherever it goes! Recommended for audiences ages 14 and older.
The Masters Program with the PBT Orchestra
April 14 – 16, 2023 | Benedum Center
Choreography: Christopher Wheeldon, Jorma Elo and George Balanchine | Music: Mixed repertory
Marvel at three works from award-winning choreographers who are considered masters of ballet, featuring pure classical dancing at its best with contemporary twists that go where no choreographer has gone before. Polyphonia, which is widely regarded as Tony-award-winning Christopher Wheeldon’s breakthrough contemporary work, showcases modern choreography with an understanding of the past. Dancers move at the speed of light while articulating the body in perfect harmony with music by Jean Sibelius in Jorma Elo’s 1st Flash. Plus, see why George Balanchine is hailed as the father of 20th century dance in Theme and Variations, which features a classic Tchaikovsky score, theme and 12 variations, culminating in a polonaise.
The Sleeping Beauty with the PBT Orchestra
May 19 – 21, 2023 | Benedum Center
Choreography: Ronald Hynd | Music: Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Drama and romance are palpable in this modernized production of the most classical of all full-length ballets. The Sleeping Beauty tells the story of a beautiful princess cursed into an eternal slumber until she is awoken by true love’s kiss. Filled with magnificent sets and costumes, an iconic Tchaikovsky score and incredible ballet technique, this wonderful fairytale is fun for the whole family.
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Wins Telly Awards for “Fireside Nutcracker”
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) has received three Telly Awards for its Fireside Nutcracker, a virtual adaptation of Terrence S. Orr’s The Nutcracker made available to stream online during December, 2020. The company was awarded a Gold Telly for Branded Content General – Virtual Events & Experiences, and Silver Tellys for Branded Content General-Not-for-profit and Branded Content Craft – Editing.
“Fireside Nutcracker kept the holiday tradition of The Nutcracker alive during theater closures due to the pandemic,” PBT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe said. “We were excited to share the program – which reached nearly 50,000 viewers in over 30 countries – with our audience and we’re honored that it has been recognized by the Tellys.”
PBT began work on Fireside Nutcracker in the summer of 2020, anticipating that the company would not be able to return to the Benedum Center for its annual run of over 20 Nutcracker performances. Alongside a team of producers and videographers from LOOK Creative Guild, PBT artists, crew, staff and 25 PBT School students filmed Fireside Nutcracker at the award-winning Pittsburgh Playhouse at Point Park University and the historic Hartwood Acres Mansion.
To accommodate safety regulations while filming during the COVID pandemic, adjustments were made to choreography to ensure social distancing and masking. Lead couples, like Marie and the Nutcracker, were cast using pairs of cohabitating dancers, to limit close contact between dancers outside of a single household. Many of The Nutcracker’s most iconic scenes feature PBT’s corps de ballet in close formation. To adhere to social distancing protocols, these scenes were filmed with fewer dancers interacting at once and were seamlessly stitched together to recreate classic dances for the audience to experience from a new perspective.
“The reformatting of storytelling, choreography and filming of this ballet was complex, but a wonderful process for everyone,” Jaffe said, “and we all felt good about the work. But, the people who shined the most were our dancers and our children who took part in the filming.”
Fireside Nutcracker was sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Giant Eagle and Clearview Federal Credit Union.
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Unveils Its 2021-2022 Season
After more than a year since the curtain came down abruptly on Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s (PBT) 50th Anniversary Season, PBT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe is proud to announce a 2021-2022 Season that brings ballet back to the Benedum Center and August Wilson African American Cultural Center. PBT’s triumphant return to the theater ignites innovative voices, revisits beloved classical ballets and brings fan favorites to life on stage. This will be the first complete theater season planned by Jaffe, who took the helm as the company’s seventh artistic director in June 2020.
“I’m so happy to be able to bring ballet safely back to the theater with a season full of programs I’m truly excited about,” Jaffe said. “This season celebrates the dynamic work of courageous, passionate and creative choreographers, and shows the full depth and breadth of the art form.”
“PBT’s ‘Here + Now’ program celebrates women who have contributed important work to our art form. A full program choreographed by women is still uncommon, and I’m thrilled to bring their talent, passion and artistry to Pittsburgh.”
With the help of MSA Safety, PBT’s 2021-2022 Season safety sponsor, patrons will be invited back to the theater with increased safety measures including masking, social distancing, a guest pledge and a pledge from the venues to maintain a safe and comfortable environment. For more information on safety measures in the theater, visit https://trustarts.org/pct_home/pages/know-before-you-go.
Single tickets start at $28 and will be available this September at pbt.org or 412-456-6666. Subscription packages start at $81 at pbt.org or 412-454-9107 and offer 20 percent savings over single tickets and a variety of subscriber benefits.
PBT’s 2021-2022 Season
Season Premiere with the PBT Orchestra
October 22-24, 2021 | Benedum Center
Choreography & Music: Mixed Repertory
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre makes its triumphant return to the Benedum Center with a Season Premiere of four distinct works that capture the essence and evolution of the art form. Ballet’s innovative future is exemplified by Helen Pickett’s vivacious Petal and a world premiere work by Jennifer Archibald. Experience Balanchine’s glittering Diamonds, an embodiment of the precision and grace of the classical tradition set to the music of Tchaikovsky, and Victor Gsovsky’s exacting Grand Pas Classique.
The Nutcracker
December 10-29, 2021 | Benedum Center
Choreography: Terrence S. Orr | Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky
Snow settles on the Steel City as a wonderful adventure begins in PBT’s The Nutcracker. Join Marie, her Nutcracker prince and the Sugar Plum Fairy on a journey into the Land of Enchantment. Five fanciful scenes, over 150 unique costumes and Tchaikovsky’s enduring score make “The Nutcracker” a can’t-miss holiday tradition.
The Nutcracker is sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Giant Eagle and Clearview Federal Credit Union.
Alice in Wonderland
February 11-13, 2022 | Benedum Center
Choreography: Derek Deane | Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky, additional music by Carl Davis
Step into a surreal world of outlandish illusion, dreamlike scenery and your favorite Lewis Carroll characters in Derek Deane’s Alice in Wonderland. A whimsical medley of Tchaikovsky’s music provides the perfect backdrop to the madness of deranged tea parties, unhinged games of croquet and extraordinary dance. Don’t miss the madcap ballet the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette calls an “old-fashioned romp through [the] British classic, ripe with an over-the-top music hall flavor.”
Here + Now
March 24-27, 2022 | August Wilson African American Cultural Center
Choreography & Music: Mixed Repertory
PBT’s revamped Here + Now brings the cutting-edge voices in dance to the August Wilson African American Cultural Center. See the world premieres of SKIN + saltwater, created by local choreographer and PBT Artist in Residence Staycee R. Pearl, sponsored by Arts, Equity, & Education Fund, and a new work by Aszure Barton, an internationally acclaimed choreographer who has been described as an innovator of form. Revisit the excitement of a new trio by award-winning choreographer Helen Pickett – first seen during PBT’s annual performance at Hartwood Acres – and experience the depth of Anabelle Lopez Ochoa’s intimate La Pluie and Gemma Bond’s expressive Depuis le Jour.
Swan Lake with the PBT Orchestra
May 6-15, 2022 | Benedum Center
Original Choreography: Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov | Staged By: Susan Jaffe
Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky
Classical precision, superb storytelling and Tchaikovsky’s seminal score collide to create one of ballet’s most iconic works of art. The beautiful Odette, cursed to live as a swan, meets the prince who could break the spell – but the wicked Von Rothbart has plans of his own. Artistic Director Susan Jaffe’s own acclaimed history culminates in a new restaging of Swan Lake.
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Company Reunites for County Parks Summer Series
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) company dancers reunited at Hartwood Acres after months of working remotely to film a performance for the Allegheny County Parks Summer Concert Series sponsored by BNY Mellon. The episode, featuring a new adaptation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” will air on Pittsburgh’s CW network and on social media on Aug. 16, 2020.
In bringing together the entire PBT company, along with staff and videographers, PBT became the first ballet company in the American Guild of Musical Artists (AGMA) to perform together since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is a challenging time for our members and the arts, so we are thrilled that AGMA and PBT were able to work together to find a way to make this project happen,” Len Egert, national executive director of AGMA, said. “AGMA and PBT worked collaboratively in early June to develop safe work protocols for PBT dancers. In a week’s time, we developed a plan with guidance from AGMA’s medical experts that allowed the PBT company to gather together, in person, safely. PBT is the first AGMA company to be able to bring its entire workforce together on contract since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis.”
PBT’s adaptation of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was conceived and choreographed remotely by PBT company dancers Tommie Lynn Kesten, Jessica McCann, Kurtis Sprowls and Cooper Verona under the direction of Artistic Director Susan Jaffe. Dancers learned choreography via Zoom prior to filming and performed throughout the Hartwood Acres campus following strict safety protocols.
Dancers remained socially distanced throughout the filming, with the exception of those who have been cohabitating throughout the pandemic. Crew and artists were given health screenings prior to filming, masks were worn at all times outside of performance and surfaces were regularly cleaned with commercial cleaner throughout the shoot, among other safety precautions followed.
“We are very excited to see the final product,” said Egert. “Seeing our artists doing what they love once again brings us great joy.”
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” will be part of a nine-concert series of local artists televised on Pittsburgh’s CW network on Sunday night’s at 7 p.m. through Sept. 6. Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre will air on Sunday, Aug. 16 with special guest the Pittsburgh Opera. The performance will be posted on the Allegheny County Parks Facebook page and YouTube channel after broadcast.
Announcing Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s 2020-2021 Season!
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr is proud to announce the company’s 2020-2021 Season lineup, featuring a mixed-repertory program of masterful choreographers, the return of Derek Deane’s “Alice in Wonderland,” and the PBT premier of Ronald Hynd’s “The Merry Widow.” Orr will retire as artistic director in June 2020.
The five-ballet season will run from October 2020 through May 2021 and includes: “Cinderella” with the PBT Orchestra, “The Nutcracker,” “The Merry Widow” with the PBT Orchestra,” “Modern Masters” featuring works by Mark Morris and Nacho Duato, and “Alice in Wonderland.”
Single tickets start at $28 and will be available this August at pbt.org or 412-456-6666. Subscription packages start at $81 at pbt.org or 412-454-9107 and offer 20 percent savings over single tickets and a variety of subscriber benefits.
2020-2021 SEASON LINEUP
“Cinderella” with the PBT Orchestra
Oct. 23-25, 2020 — Benedum Center
Choreography: Kent Stowell | Music: Sergei Prokofiev
A classic fairy tale is renewed with romance at its core in the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre premier of Kent Stowell’s Cinderella. Attend the royal ball with Cinderella, her wicked step sisters and her prince as the familiar tale of true love unfolds through grand theatrical scenery, glittering costumes and Prokofiev’s splendid score.
“The Nutcracker”
Dec. 4-27, 2020 — Benedum Center
Choreography & Concept: Terrence S. Orr | Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky
The magic of the holiday season fills the Benedum Center stage in The Nutcracker. PBT’s Pittsburgh-inspired production captures the excitement of the original story through five fanciful scenes, over 150 unique costumes and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. With a rotating cast of dozens of dancers, each performance provides a fresh experience to audiences and artists alike.
“The Merry Widow” with the PBT Orchestra
Feb. 12-14, 2021 — Benedum Center
Choreography: Ronald Hynd | Music: Franz Lehár
Toast to the glitz and glamour of The Merry Widow! With his nation on the verge of bankruptcy, it’s up to the debonair Count Danilo to woo the wealthy widow Hanna Glawari and use her fortune to save his country. But the object of his affection is the same childhood sweetheart he jilted so long ago. This buoyant ballet explores the romance and intrigue unraveling in a Belle Epoque ballroom in Paris through lavish costumes and lush dancing.
“Modern Masters” ft. Mark Morris, Nacho Duato and More
April 9-18, 2021 — August Wilson African American Cultural Center
In partnership with the August Wilson African American Cultural Center
Choreography & Music: Mixed Repertory
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre returns to the August Wilson African American Cultural Center with a mixed-repertory program featuring Mark Morris’ exultant Maelstrom, set to Beethoven’s Ghost Trio. Nacho Duato puts the music of Claude Debussy at the center of his enchanting Duende, fluidly melding the human form and the shape of sound to create a magical landscape. The final piece of the performance will be chosen by PBT’s incoming artistic director.
“Alice in Wonderland”
May 7-16, 2021 — Benedum Center
Choreography: Derek Deane | Music: P.I. Tchaikovsky, additional music by Carl Davis
Step into a surreal world of outlandish illusion, dreamlike scenery and your favorite Lewis Carroll characters in Derek Deane’s Alice in Wonderland. A whimsical medley of Tchaikovsky’s music provides the perfect backdrop to the madness of deranged tea parties, unhinged games of croquet and extraordinary dance. Don’t miss the madcap ballet the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette calls an “old-fashioned romp through [the] British classic, ripe with an over-the-top music hall flavor.”
New Dancer Spotlight: Josiah Kauffman
Josiah Kauffman, PBT’s sixth new dancer for 2019-2020, didn’t have an easy path to his professional career. But it was injury that cemented ballet as his passion. Get to know Josiah:
Fun Facts
Hometown: Belgrade, Montana
Family: “I have a dad and mom, a little brother and a little sister, a pug, and a cat. I love them all and I miss them a lot.”
Pre-performance ritual: “I spend some time in prayer and listen to music to get me pumped.”
Hobbies: “I love playing all sorts of instruments (guitar and mandolin). I also really enjoy playing chess.”
Favorite food: “Cheeseburgers!”
Favorite musician/song: “Rend Collective.”
Ultimate dream role: “Spartacus!”
Favorite role to date: “I got to play Basilio in Don Quixote at my school in Indiana this last spring.”
Q&A
How do you think you’ve grown as an artist during your training? How has it prepared you for a professional position?
“My teachers, [former PBT dancer] Robert Moore and Pollyana Ribeiro really emphasized dancing with artistry instead of just doing the steps for the steps. Growing up in a competition studio in my earlier years, I always thought choreography had to be trick-heavy and explosive to impress an audience. After switching to classical ballet, I learned that putting my heart and soul into choreography can be a lot more moving than just pulling off heavy tricks.”
Describe your ballet “epiphany” – the moment you knew this was what you wanted to do professionally.
“When I was 14 years old, I had a medical scare. The doctors told me I had fractured my C-4 vertebrae and I could be paralyzed from the neck down with too much movement – dancing was pretty much off the table. Being faced with the possibility of never dancing again, I realized what a crucial part of my life it was. Thankfully, they found that I only had a minor fracture and was able to continue my training.”
What are some of your personal goals for your first season as a company dancer?
“My goal is to grow more as a dancer and a performer.”
What’s the most fulfilling thing about being a ballet dancer?
“Striving for perfection is the most fulfilling thing for me. I like a challenge.”
What are you most looking forward to next season?
“Being able to dance and perform with professionals on a regular basis is something I am really looking forward to and I’m excited to see more growth in my abilities.”
If I wasn’t a ballet dancer, I would be…
“I like to work with my hands, so I’d probably build houses or do something with music.”
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Announces Live Music Appeal
In celebration of its 50th Anniversary Season in 2019-2020, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) will embark on a Live Music Appeal to help sustain live music at PBT performances for the next 50 years. The appeal will raise $6 million by 2022 to ensure that the level of live music that PBT audiences have come to expect at performances each year will continue for the next generation.
For the past nine seasons, a single individual, who has chosen to remain anonymous, has been instrumental in supporting two to three programs every season with the PBT Orchestra. In support of PBT’s Live Music Appeal, this same individual has pledged a $3 million gift to double every donation made to live music over the next three years.
“It’s a way for our audience to preserve the experience [of live music] for generations to come,” Director of Development Christy Rowing said. “And it tells the next generation that, if you have an interest in being a classical musician, we have a venue for you to perform in.”
The Live Music Appeal will be announced to PBT audiences prior to performances of “Giselle” with the PBT Orchestra from Oct. 25-27 at the Benedum Center with a video celebrating PBT’s 50th Anniversary Season and remarks from PBT Music Director and Principal Conductor Charles Barker.
“Having an orchestra in the pit sets up a sense of excitement, even for people who have been going to the theater their whole lives,” Barker said. “They still get a sense that something magical is about to happen.”
As of Oct. 21, 2019, PBT has raised $3.7 million toward the Live Music Appeal – just over half of the total goal. While securing a live orchestra for performances of The Nutcracker is a long-term strategic goal of PBT, the Live Music Appeal will focus on sustaining two to three programs each season with the PBT Orchestra, totaling over 500 individual performances over the next 50 years.
Donations can be made via text, web or mail.
To donate:
Visit: pbt.org/livemusic
Call: 412-454-9133
Text: PBTLIVEMUSIC to 56651
Please note that all gifts are tax deductible.
New Dancer Spotlight: Erin Casale
Fresh from Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s graduate program, Erin Casale is one of six new company members joining PBT for its 50th Anniversary Season in 2019-2020. Learn how Erin gets ready for a performance, what her ultimate dream role is and what she’s hoping to accomplish during her first year as a professional dancer here:
Fun Facts
Hometown: Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Family: “I’m the oldest child out of three. I have a younger sister and a younger brother. My mother and father are super supportive and I wouldn’t be where I am without them.”
Pre-performance ritual: “I usually try to get to the theater pretty early so I don’t have to rush myself at any point while getting ready. I always listen to Billy Joel to get me pumped up and ready to go.”
Hobbies: “I really enjoy sewing and cross stitching. I like trying new crafts and projects too! I also have a few betta fish that I really enjoy taking care of.”
Favorite food: “Any Chinese food, really, but vegetable lo mein is my absolute favorite!”
Favorite musician/song: “‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ by Queen”
Ultimate dream role: ” I would love to perform Juliet or Cinderella.“
Favorite role to date: “It’s hard to choose between performing the first movement of Western Symphony or Raymonda.“
Q&A
How do you think you’ve grown as an artist during your training? How has it prepared you for a professional position?
“I was fortunate enough to work with the company during both my years in the graduate program, which gave me the opportunity to really feel what it’s like to work with the company. It was also a big test for me to see whether I was able to handle the pressure and if I was good enough to make it in this industry.”
Describe your ballet “epiphany” – the moment you knew this was what you wanted to do professionally.
“Growing up in Johnstown, there wasn’t a lot of opportunities to go and watch ballet, so my mom started taking me to see Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s productions. When my family moved to Washington D.C., I was able to attend PBT’s five-week summer program, and that was when it really clicked. My dream was to dance with PBT and now I’m very fortunate to say that I am.”
What are some of your personal goals for your first season as a company dancer?
“I definitely want to continue working on cleaning my technique. I also want to step out of my comfort zone and learn as much as I can from other dancers. There are so many different dancers and it’s fascinating to see how everyone approaches each role.”
What’s the most fulfilling thing about being a ballet dancer?
“Ballet has always been a part of me. It lets me escape reality and explore different characters. I could be having a hard time in the studio with some of the rehearsals, but performing just has that magical quality to it. That fear just disappears and I feel free.”
What are you most looking forward to dancing next season?
“Definitely Balanchine & Tchaikovsky and Giselle.”
If I wasn’t a ballet dancer, I would be…
“Criminal psychologist or profiler. I’m super into true crime and I find it absolutely fascinating!”
New Dancer Spotlight: Grace Rookstool
Grace Rookstool is part of the new cohort of PBT dancers hired by Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr for the company’s 50th Anniversary Season in 2019-2020. Grace’s passion for dance started early and runs deep, from watching her older sisters practice ballet to taking the stage herself. In fact, the dancers among her family of 10 have racked up over 350 performances of The Nutcracker, between them. Learn more about one of PBT’s newest company members here:
Fun Facts
Hometown: Langley, Washington
Family: “I come from a family of 10 kids. I’m number 7 in the line-up.”
Pre-performance ritual: “I like to get there in plenty of time to get myself ready, and to get pumped up and excited for the show.”
Hobbies: “Baking, going for walks and playing around on the piano.”
Favorite food: “Ice cream.”
Favorite musician/song: “I don’t have an absolute favorite. I like everything from Billie Eilish to Queen to Frank Sinatra.”
Ultimate dream role: “Odette/Odile.“
Favorite role to date: “A Meditation, Pas de Deux, choreographed by Cecilia Iliesu for the PNB Next Step program. It was my first pas on stage and I got to do it with someone I was close with.“
Q&A
How do you think you’ve grown as an artist during your training? How has it prepared you for a professional position?
“I started ballet when I was 3 years old. I’ve been learning technique for as long as I can remember, but learning to express myself as an artist on stage for an audience – or even just in class for myself – has helped me to grow so much over the years. All of the training I’ve received over the years, whether it be in technique or artistry, has been part of showing me what it means to be a professional dancer. It taught me to want to be in any role and to always be ready to jump in at the last minute and express myself to the fullest.”
Describe your ballet “epiphany” – the moment you knew this was what you wanted to do professionally.
“My ‘moment’ when I knew I wanted this more than anything – to become a ballerina – had to be the first time I saw George Balanchine’s Jewels. I was 9 years old and was lucky enough to see Carla Korbes and Karel Cruz perform the Diamonds Pas de Deux together. It was such an amazing performance, it made me want to reach those heights as an artist, which is exactly what I set out to do after that show.”
What are some of your personal goals for your first season as a company dancer?
“For the upcoming season I plan to give 110 percent to each and every opportunity I am given. I also plan to keep on growing as a technician and an artist, and to push forward to new heights for both the audience and myself.”
What’s the most fulfilling thing about being a ballet dancer?
“I would have to say the most fulfilling thing about being a ballet dancer is getting past all the hard work we do in the studios and putting our performances on stage to connect with the audience.”
What are you most looking forward to dancing next season?
“The most exciting thing I’m looking forward to this upcoming season is to finally be a member of a professional ballet company, and taking my passion and making it my career. Not only that, but becoming acquainted with a whole new corner of the ballet world, including artistic staff, coworkers, new friends, etc.”
If I wasn’t a ballet dancer, I would be…
“If I never had my ‘epiphany moment’ in ballet and didn’t become a professional ballet dancer, I think I’d be involved in missionary work or other endeavors reaching out to help the underprivileged, or those affected by natural disasters. I would want to be involved in helping make the world a better place.”
New Dancer Alert: Sixth New Company Member Signed for 2019-2020 Season
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr has hired Josiah Kauffman of Belgrade, Montana to the company roster as an apprentice for PBT’s 50th Anniversary Season in 2019-2020, which opens Oct. 25-27, with “Giselle” with the PBT Orchestra.
Kauffman is the sixth new dancer added to the company roster for the 2019-2020 season, joining Erin Casale, Grace Rookstool, Allison Durand, Jack Hawn and Sam DerGregorian.
Single ticket sales for “Giselle” and other 50th Anniversary Season productions open Aug. 6, at pbt.org, 412-456-6666 or the Box Office at Theater Square. Tickets start at $28. Subscription packages, starting at $81, are available now by visiting pbt.org or calling 412-454-9107.
About the New Dancer
Josiah Kauffman
Josiah Kauffman was born and raised in beautiful Montana, where he began dancing at the age of 9. At 16 he moved to complete his training with Robert Moore and Pollyana Ribeiro at their studio, EnPointe Indiana Ballet. He’s excited to begin his career with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre.
Luca Sbrizzi to Take Final Bow of 12-Year Career
PITTSBURGH, PA (Aug. 1, 2019) – Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) long-time principal dancer Luca Sbrizzi has announced his plans to close his 12-year career with PBT following the company’s 50th Anniversary Season opener in October.
“My career at PBT has been absolutely wonderful,” Sbrizzi said. “I’ve gotten to share the stage with so many dancers I admire and perform all the roles that I’ve ever wanted to do. First and foremost is ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ It’s the reason why I started ballet. It’s the most complete ballet there is, the perfect match of technique and artistry. I feel so immensely grateful I was able to perform this role and fulfill a dream of mine.”
In addition to Romeo in Derek Deane’s “Romeo and Juliet”, Sbrizzi has performed roles with PBT including Frederick and Renfield in Ben Stevenson’s “Dracula,” the title role in Jorden Morris’ “Peter Pan,” Matthew in Jorden Morris’ “Moulin Rouge® – The Ballet,” Prince Desiré in Terrence S. Orr’s “The Sleeping Beauty,” Basilio in Orr’s “Don Quixote,” Solor in Orr’s “La Bayadère,” Albrecht in Orr’s “Giselle” and Prince Sigfried in Orr’s “Swan Lake.”
Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr, who will also retire later this season after more than 23 years with the company, said that Sbrizzi’s technical and dramatic abilities bring something special to the company.
“PBT will miss his wonderful contributions and his talent,” Orr said. “I’m really going to miss him.”
Sbrizzi, originally of Udine, Italy, joined PBT in 2007 and was promoted to principal in 2016. Before coming to Pittsburgh, he trained with his sister, Alessia Sbrizzi, at Abidance and Pino Carbone at “Club il Vortice” and performed with Boston Ballet II.
“I feel that Luca and I share a very special commonality of spirit onstage,” Alexandra Kochis, Sbrizzi’s frequent dance partner and fellow Boston Ballet alum, said. “That’s something that every performer craves – that connection. It’s something so powerful and so unique to that time and that place and that partnership. Luca and I have known each other since we were pretty much babies in this industry and, on the ocean of life, I certainly never expected this wave we have ridden for the last 2 plus years [dancing together as principals].”
Sbrizzi intends to stay in Pittsburgh, at his home in Stanton Heights, after his final bow. He and his wife, Jenna are expecting their first child in November of 2019. He received his massage therapy license several years ago and intends to use it to help dancers and athletes feel and perform their best.
“I can’t tell you how much I admire Luca’s work ethic, integrity and dedication,” Gabrielle Thurlow, Sbrizzi’s longtime dance partner, said. “Having danced several roles with him, I was fortunate enough to experience these qualities first hand. Over the years, he’s given me endless laughs, support and motivation, and I will truly miss his presence both in the studio and on stage.”
Sbrizzi will close his tenure at PBT with “Giselle” with the PBT Orchestra in October.
“I’ve always been in love with all the major classical ballets,” Sbrizzi said. “In 2016, I was lucky to perform Albrecht in ‘Giselle,’ and that’s why I wanted to circle back to that before retiring. It’s an amazing ballet and it truly takes you through a one-of-a-kind emotional journey. I want to experience that one more time before letting this world go.”
“Since I was very young, I’ve been taught the importance of communicating to the audience – the importance of connecting with them. I think that’s how you capture people’s hearts and how you make the audience feel something. And for me, that’s what the art form is all about.”
See Luca’s final performance on Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8 p.m.
New Dancer Alert: New Company Member Signed for 2019-2020 Season
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) Artistic Director Terrence S. Orr has added Erin Casale to the company roster for PBT’s 50th Anniversary Season in 2019-2020, which opens Oct. 25-27, with “Giselle” with the PBT Orchestra.
Casale will join the company as an apprentice for the 2019-2020 season.
Single ticket sales for “Giselle” and other 50th Anniversary Season productions open Aug. 6, at pbt.org, 412-456-6666 or the Box Office at Theater Square. Tickets start at $28. Subscription packages, starting at $81, are available now by visiting pbt.org or calling 412-454-9107.
About the New Dancer
Erin Casale
Erin Casale, originally from Johnstown, Pa., began her ballet training with Johnstown Concert Ballet. She then moved to Stafford, Va. and furthered her training with Academy of Russian Ballet under Yuri and Jasmine Nikitenko. She then graduated from Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre School’s full-time program and completed two years in the graduate program. She has attended summer programs with Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and The Harid Conservatory. As a graduate student, she has had the opportunity to perform with the PBT company, including productions of George Balanchine’s “Divertimento No.15,” Terrence S. Orr’s “The Nutcracker,” Jordan Morris’ “The Great Gatsby,” “Swan Lake” and “The Sleeping Beauty.” With PBT School, she has performed in various productions including, “Raymonda,” “Swan Lake,” “Le Corsaire,” “Glazunov Suite,” George Balanchine’s “Western Symphony” and “Theme and Variations,” and new works choreographed by PBT company dancers Jessica McCann and Yoshiaki Nakano.
PBT Advances School Expansion Plan this Spring
Since launching the PBT School Expansion Plan in 2009, PBT has marked major milestones from the opening of PBT’s first student dormitory to the addition of new sprung studio floors and an expanded reception area at the PBT Studios. This spring, PBT will advance the next phase of the plan with a project to improve safety and increase campus parking for students, dancers and visitors.
Following the recent purchase of PBT’s neighboring property on Liberty Avenue in the Strip District, PBT has scheduled demolition in late May of the former Liberty Mart building located next to the studios. The lot will be repurposed to create more than 35 new parking spaces on the same side of the street as the studios, reducing the need for families to students to cross busy Liberty Avenue from PBT’s overflow parking lot.
“With an annual PBT School enrollment of 900 students, combined with visits from company members, staff and our extended PBT family, we are host to a total of 2,000 people coming and going from the PBT Studios each week,” said PBT Executive Director Harris Ferris. “By investing in the growth of our campus, we can continue to increase the training, education and audience engagement programs that distinguish PBT’s impact in the Pittsburgh community.”
PBT purchased the property as part of the School Expansion Plan to support growing enrollment in PBT School’s Children’s, Student, Pre-Professional and Adult Open Divisions and attendance at community engagement events hosted at the PBT Studios. The property expansion increased PBT’s campus footprint to more than 60,000 square feet.
In addition to parking expansion, the property also lays the foundation for the final phase of the expansion plan: the construction of an annex building with three new studio spaces to accommodate a projected 60 percent increase in PBT School enrollment and overall organizational growth.