Twin Cities Ballet company apprentice Bethany Montalvo and company dancer Lisandro Neris rehearse for Carmina Burana. Photos: Liz Astemborski
The Twin Cities Ballet is reviving Loyce Houlton’s iconic choreography.
Debuting November 1 and 2, Lakeville’s Twin Cities Ballet (TCB) presents a revival of the show Carmina Burana at St. Paul’s Fitzgerald Theater. The ballet, composed by Carl Orff, is based on 24 medieval poems that carry a satirical theme celebrating life and love.
Carmina Burana was originally choreographed by Minnesota’s own Loyce Houlton, best known for her work on the iconic Nutcracker Fantasy. Her daughter, Lise Houlton, is partnering with TCB to stage the rendition for this production of the show. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to honor and preserve this iconic piece of our state’s cultural heritage, as well as Loyce Houlton’s legacy,” says Rick Vogt, TCB’s associate artistic director.
Twin Cities Ballet company dancers Keara Nichols and Janna Turner rehearsing with Lise Houlton.
This marks the first time Carmina Burana will be performed at the Fitzgerald Theater and features the collaboration of multiple Minnesota arts organizations. Aside from TCB’s own dancers, the production includes renowned local vocalists, musicians and the 40-member Minnesota Chorale.
“This production is a unique collaboration between incredible artists and organizations and furthers TCB’s mission to make ballet accessible, relatable and fun,” Vogt says. “The show will resonate with a broad audience through its blending of different artistic experiences. Fans of ballet, contemporary dance, classical music and theater will all enjoy it.”
Performances of Carmina Burana are at 7:30 p.m. November 1 and 2 p.m. November 2. For more information and tickets, visit twincitiesballet.org.
Twin Cities Ballet
Instagram: @twincitiesballetmn
