Soft blue tutus…a sweeping Tchaikovsky score. Next – a dance hall girls and cowboy hats. George Balanchine’s iconic ballets – Serenade and Western Symphony -- look nothing alike, yet both demonstrate Balanchine’s ability to evoke powerful emotions. Western Symphony utilizes classical ballet steps infused with American folk dancing. Serenade is a milestone in dance – Balanchine’s first ballet created in America. Finally, After the Rain Pas de Deux, created for New York City Ballet by Tony Award-winner Christopher Wheeldon (MJ The Musical), honors the great master.

A haunting duet, hummable Hershy Kay melodies, sweeping romanticism, the old west, cowboys – this opening performance of the 2024-2025 season showcases Saint Louis Ballet’s great versatility and talent in a program with spirit and heart.