objective 1:

the art of dance

Elevating Alberta Ballet globally by fusing classical mastery with contemporary energy to captivate modern audiences.

Revitalizing the Classics: tradition meets innovation

Alberta Ballet’s repertoire forms a cornerstone of its identity and strategic direction, balancing classical masterpieces with groundbreaking contemporary works to attract a broad audience base. This dual focus ensures the preservation of ballet’s historical legacy while embracing modernity to remain culturally relevant.

The Role of Contemporary Ballet

Alongside its classical offerings, Alberta Ballet pushes boundaries with contemporary works that blend classical technique with modern themes, innovative movement styles, and cutting-edge production elements, such as multimedia integration and bold stage design. These pieces attract younger, more diverse audiences, ensuring the company stays culturally relevant and forward-thinking.

Artistic Excellence Through Acclaimed Choreographers

To further its artistic ambitions, Alberta Ballet incorporates works by globally renowned contemporary choreographers such as Jerome Robbins, Jiří Kylián, and William Forsythe. These productions expand artistic boundaries, challenge dancers, and bring Alberta audiences the richness of modern ballet history. Despite their high cost, these works enhance Alberta Ballet’s global prestige and underscore its dedication to presenting world-class performances.

The Importance of Classical Ballet

Alberta Ballet plays a vital role in keeping the classical canon alive, presenting works such as La Bayadère, Coppélia, La Sylphide, and La Fille Mal Gardée. These productions showcase ballet’s cultural heritage, timeless themes, and grand visual appeal—lavish costumes, intricate choreography, and powerful music—that resonate across generations. By emphasizing these elements, Alberta Ballet seeks to transform these works into extraordinary experiences for Alberta audiences, making them accessible and engaging rather than distant or elitist.

Classical ballets also align with Alberta Ballet’s commitment to professional training. They inspire students aspiring to classical careers and provide post-graduate dancers with essential experience in performing the foundational repertoire, creating a seamless transition from training to professional artistry.

Long-Term Goals

Alberta Ballet aims to:

  • Amplify Classical Works: Enhance the spectacle of classical productions to captivate audiences through awe-inspiring visual and emotional experiences.

  • Innovate Through Contemporary Works: Develop avant-garde productions that immerse audiences in multi-sensory, transformative experiences.

  • Build Global Credibility: Position itself alongside leading international companies by featuring acclaimed choreographers’ works and excelling in both classical and contemporary ballet.

Action Plan

  • Objective: Transform Alberta Ballet’s productions into visually stunning, immersive experiences while prioritizing sustainability, operational efficiency, and workforce collaboration.

    Action Plan:

    1. Modernize traditional productions with innovative designs and technologies.

    2. Prioritize reusable and sustainable design elements to reduce environmental impact.

    3. Collaborate with designers and unions to balance innovation with authenticity and workforce support.

  • Objective: Equip Alberta Ballet School students with the technical proficiency and versatility needed to excel in both classical and contemporary ballet, aligning with Alberta Ballet’s artistic vision.

    Action Plan:

    1. Train students to perform classical works with technical proficiency.

    2. Integrate contemporary dance techniques into training.

    3. Adapt the curriculum to reflect modern trends in dance while maintaining classical foundations.

  • Objective: Create compelling contemporary dance productions that resonate with modern audiences by combining current themes, multi-sensory elements, and cross-disciplinary collaborations.

    Action Plan:

    1. Commission works from emerging choreographers addressing contemporary themes.

    2. Integrate cutting-edge technology into performances to enhance immersion.

    3. Collaborate with Alberta-based artists to reflect local culture in productions.

  • Objective: Establish Alberta Ballet as a leader in contemporary ballet by collaborating with celebrated choreographers, producing world-class works, and creating unforgettable cultural experiences.

    Action Plan:

    1. Collaborate with world-renowned choreographers to stage innovative, acclaimed productions that redefine contemporary ballet.

    2. Transform productions into multidisciplinary cultural events by collaborating with leading artists in visual design, installation, or multimedia.

    3. Engage audiences and strengthen Alberta Ballet’s profile through exclusive events and international tours that highlight acclaimed choreographers.

  • Objective: Form strategic partnerships with prestigious ballet and dance brands to reinforce the international prestige of Alberta Ballet and its school.

    Action Plan:

    1. Attract and collaborate with guest teachers and choreographers.

    2. Host guest artists to develop students’ versatility across multiple dance styles.