May 10-19, 2024

Jewels

The Story Of Jewels

Jewels is a three-act ballet created for the New York City Ballet by co-founder and founding choreographer George Balanchine. It premiered in April 1967 at the New York State Theater.

Jewels has been called the first full-length abstract ballet. It has three related movements: Emeralds, Rubies, and Diamonds (usually separated by intermissions). It can also be seen as three separate ballets, linked by their jewel-colored costumes. Balanchine commented: “The ballet had nothing to do with jewels. The dancers are just dressed like jewels.”

Pre-Curtain Talks

Free for all ticketholders, arrive early and hear about the show you are about to see. Learn how music, special effects, and costumes all make magic on stage by attending the pre-curtain talk, Belger Footnotes, hosted by Artistic Director Devon Carney.

Held at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts one hour prior to curtain. No reservation is necessary.

Artist Conversations

Dance Speaks: Jewels

Wednesday, April 10, 2024 | Frost Studio Theater | Todd Bolender Center for Dance & Creativity | 500 West Pershing Rd., KCMO 64108
5:15-6 p.m. | Jewels Rehearsal
6-7 p.m. | Dance Speaks Panel

Kansas City Ballet Artistic Director Devon Carney invites Dance Speaks patrons to join him and guests (TBD) in an engaging conversation inspired by the ballet Jewels. Get a sneak peek beforehand of a company rehearsal of Jewels and gain inside information about the production. The program includes an audience Q and A. Tickets are only $12.

Dancer Chat: Jewels

Wednesday, May 1, 2024, 6:30-7:15 p.m. | Virtual on Facebook LIVE

KC Ballet Dancer Chats, a FREE community engagement and education series, are designed to provide the broader public an opportunity to engage with and learn more about the professional dancers from Kansas City Ballet. Each Dancer Chat features three KCB company dancers chatting about their roles in upcoming KCB productions and sharing aspects of their life journey and dance experiences. These relaxed, informal conversations are moderated by various KCB community professionals. All Dancer Chats take place on Facebook LIVE. www.facebook.com/kcballet

Frequently Asked Questions