Tchaikovsky would surely be stunned by the treatment his best-known work 'Swan Lake' is receiving this year from the Diablo Ballet. The 19th season of the Walnut Creek-based dance company begins on Friday (Nov. 16) and Saturday (Nov. 17) with the world premiere of 'Swingin' Holiday,' and two other works.
Broadway choreographer Sean Kelly gives holiday music a swinging run for its money and lets the dancers loose, all to a live 16-piece swing band under the direction of Diablo Ballet's Music Director Greg Sudmeier. Remember the words of the great poet Duke Ellington: "it don't mean a thing if it ain't got that swing."
Also on the bill is the California premiere of Lento a Tempe a Appassionato by choreographer Vicente Nebrada of Ballet Nacional de Caracas. This passionate duet develops through three dramatic movements, featuring the music of Alexander Scriabin performed live.
The Moor's Pavane, by modern dance choreographer Jose Limon, is brought to life in a co-production with Diablo Ballet and sjDANCEco. This American classic captures the intrigue and emotion of Shakespeare’s Othello.
Performances are Friday November 16th 8 PM and Saturday November 17th 2 PM and 8 PM at the Lesher Center in Walnut Creek - 1601 Civic Drive. Tickets are $36 - $52 depending on performance. Tickets may be ordered by calling the Lesher Center box office at 925-943-7469 or visiting their website at
After the Saturday November 17th 2 p.m. performance, guests are invited to meet Diablo Ballet dancers in costume in the lobby and have their picture taken.
