Photo by Vam productions

(MORRISTOWN, NJ) -- New Jersey Ballet (NJB), the Resident Ballet Company of the Mayo Performing Arts Center, will open its 2024/2025 season on Friday, November 8, at 7:30pm with Creative Forces, a dynamic program showcasing the artistry of celebrated choreographers Jerome Robbins, Justin Peck and Lauren Lovette.

“Our season opener celebrates the incredible range and depth of ballet,” says Artistic Director Maria Kowroski. “From the elegance of Jerome Robbins’ In the Night to the dynamic innovation of Justin Peck’s Murder Ballades and Lauren Lovette’s Not Our Fate, we are excited to showcase how ballet can express the intricacies of human experiences with both grace and power." Kowroski, a former principal dancer at New York City Ballet (NYCB), performed many of Robbins' works, including In the Night, giving her a unique insight into bringing this masterpiece to audiences in New Jersey.

With Creative Forces, NJB demonstrates its evolving repertoire by presenting contemporary works alongside classic ballets, positioning the company as a versatile and forward-thinking artistic force. The inclusion of Peck and Lovette, both contemporary choreographers with strong ties to NYCB, alongside Robbins, emphasizes NJB’s commitment to modern ballet storytelling. Creative Forces marks an exciting step forward for NJB by bringing works from Jerome Robbins, Justin Peck and Lauren Lovette to regional audiences – many of whom may be seeing these pieces for the first time – solidifying the company’s role in honoring ballet’s history while embracing its future.

Photo by Vam productions

Jerome Robbins, the legendary choreographer and director of both stage and screen, served as New York City Ballet’s associate artistic director for several decades and created numerous ballets for the company. In the Night, with live piano accompaniment by Barry Spatz, is a timeless exploration of romantic relationships, set to Chopin’s Nocturnes. Robbins’ influence is strongly evident in the works of both Peck and Lovette, who have continued his legacy by expanding the boundaries of ballet.

Justin Peck, currently NYCB’s Resident Choreographer, is renowned for his vibrant, energetic works that blend classical ballet with modern flair. Murder Ballades, set to a score by Bryce Dessner, is a rhythmic, dramatic piece that pushes the boundaries of narrative ballet. Peck’s work provides audiences with a fresh perspective on how ballet can convey contemporary stories. Most recently, Peck conceived, directed and choreographed the 2024 Tony Award-winning production of Illinoise.

Lauren Lovette, a former principal dancer at NYCB, choreographed Not Our Fate for NYCB’s 2017 Fashion Gala. Not Our Fate is an emotionally powerful ensemble work for ten dancers. The piece confronts traditional societal expectations and explores themes of individuality and identity through stirring choreography. Lovette’s approach, like Robbins, uses ballet to address modern social issues, reinforcing the art form’s relevance today.

This program exemplifies ballet’s ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions and narratives, offering an unforgettable experience filled with beauty, strength and human complexity. 

Tickets for Creative Forces on Friday, November 8, 2024 at the Mayo Performing Arts Center (100 South St. Morristown) are available for purchase online or by calling (973) 539-8008.

Upcoming Performance: New Jersey Ballet will also be performing Creative Forces to Two River Theater (21 Bridge Ave, Red Bank) on Saturday, November 16, with a program featuring Jerome Robbins’ In the Night, Justin Peck’s Murder Ballades, and Peter Martins’ Hallelujah Junction at 2:00pm & 7:30pm. Tickets are available for purchase online or by calling (732) 345-1400.

Founded in 1958 by Carolyn Clark, New Jersey Ballet has grown into one of the most esteemed dance companies in the region. For over six decades, the Ballet has brought the joy and artistry of dance to diverse audiences across New Jersey. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in performance and education, New Jersey Ballet has developed a rich repertoire that spans classical ballets, contemporary works and innovative new productions.

Established alongside the Company, New Jersey Ballet School has been a nurturing ground for young talent. The School provides rigorous training and offers comprehensive dance education to students of all ages and levels. Many of the School’s alumni have gone on to successful professional careers in dance, reflecting the high standard of instruction and dedication to fostering artistic growth.

New Jersey Ballet is grateful for the generous support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts, the State of New Jersey, The Shubert Foundation, The Kosloski Family Foundation, EJ Grassmann Trust, Union Foundation, The Achelis & Bodman Foundation, The Hyde & Watson Foundation, The John & Barbara Vogelstein Foundation, PNC Foundation, Columbia Bank Foundation, The George A. Ohl Jr. Trust, The Wallerstein Foundation, DLA Piper and the numerous individuals and corporations that support New Jersey Ballet's mission.