description N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz (Robbins) Overview
Opus Jazz, created by Andrea Horta Robbins, presents a unique ballet interpretation of Louis Armstrong's life. This American work from the 20th century blends jazz music with classical dance techniques. It’s notable for its exploration of Armstrong’s influence and artistry. The piece is relevant to dancers, scholars studying American musical history, and audiences interested in innovative ballet performances.
help N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz (Robbins) FAQ
Who actually choreographed N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz?
Jerome Robbins choreographed the work for his company Ballets: U.S.A. It premiered at the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto in 1958.
Why is N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz called a ballet in sneakers?
The dancers perform in sneakers while mixing ballet with jazz, ballroom, Latin, African, and American social-dance influences. Robbins used that vocabulary to portray alienated urban youth rather than a traditional court or fairy-tale world.
Who composed the music for N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz?
Robert Prince composed its jazz-influenced score, and Ben Shahn designed the original abstract urban scenery. The work is not a ballet about Louis Armstrong.
Is the 2010 N.Y. Export: Opus Jazz film the same as a stage recording?
No, it restages Robbins's choreography at locations around New York City with New York City Ballet dancers including Tiler Peck and Robert Fairchild. Henry Joost and Jody Lee Lipes directed the screen adaptation, which later aired through PBS Great Performances.
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