Ballet Kelowna preps double world premiere

A fascinating double bill reflecting love and loss from Canadian choreographers is set for the Kelowna stage soon.

One performance, Mustard, sees Robert Stephen choreograph a fast-paced comedy that combines modern family drama, a darker fairytale, and tough issues.

The other, Delicate Fire, is an emotional exploration of the nature and deeds of Gods and Goddesses, choreographed by Ballet Kelowna’s Artistic Director and CEO Simone Orlando.

Ballet Kelowna’s winter offering, Turning Point, comes to the Kelowna Community Theatre February 16 and 17.

The quirky and poignant Mustard is an adaptation from Canadian playwright Kat Sandler's award-winning play about the exploits of a troubled teen's imaginary friend who has overstayed his welcome, falling in love with the family's recently separated mother in the process. The work features an original score by iconic Canadian composer Owen Belton.

“This is so special for me because it’s my first time making a narrative ballet,” Stephen told Kelowna10 at rehearsals. “It’s a very exciting story. It’s dark and playful at the same time.

“At its heart it’s about growing up and letting go,” he explained.

Initially developed for Ballet BC dancers (where Orlando was Principal Dancer for 13 years), Delicate Fire has now been completed for Ballet Kelowna, more than a decade later. The 25-minute work was inspired by the evocative music of the late Canadian composer Jocelyn Morlock, who set music to the ancient poetry of Greek poet Sappho.

“My piece is an ensemble piece; it’s very dynamic, a lot of quick intricate work and partnering, “ Orlando noted. “And I think the audience will be particularly interested in hearing the music of Jocelyn Morlock who was an absolutely amazing Canadian composer.”

Tickets and information can be found at balletkelowna.ca