zoom_in Click to enlarge

Jewels

▲ ▼

description Jewels Overview

*Jewels* is a neoclassical ballet created by choreographer Frederick Ashton. It adapts Georges Bizet’s opera *Carmen*, utilizing music from both works to evoke themes of intense emotion and dramatic narrative. Aubrey Beardsley's distinctive designs for the sets and costumes are particularly notable, contributing significantly to the ballet's visual impact. The work is primarily performed by professional ballet companies and appeals to audiences interested in classical dance, operatic adaptations, and artistic collaborations.

help Jewels FAQ

Who choreographed the full-length ballet Jewels?

Jewels was choreographed by George Balanchine for the New York City Ballet. It premiered in 1967 and is famously known as the first full-length abstract ballet.

What are the names of the three acts in the ballet Jewels?

The three acts of the ballet are named after gemstones: Emeralds, Rubies, and Diamonds. Each act features a completely different composer and style of movement to represent the characteristics of the stones.

What music is used in the Rubies section of Jewels?

The Rubies section is set to the lively, jagged music of Igor Stravinsky's Capriccio for Piano and Orchestra. This jazzy, modern score perfectly captures the vibrant and sharp energy Balanchine intended for this American-themed act.

What inspired George Balanchine to create Jewels?

Balanchine was inspired to create Jewels after visiting the renowned Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry boutique in New York. He linked the aesthetic of the gems to the distinct styles of different classical dance schools, specifically French, American, and Russian ballet.

swap_horiz

Looking for Jewels alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward