First Look
First Look targets Jr. High and High school students, and educators, offering them a unique sneak peek into Ballet West's ongoing productions. Prior to the public opening, students attend dress rehearsals, gaining insights into ballet's inner workings.
The program aims to familiarize students with ballet's evolution by showcasing complete ballets and repertory programs. Ballet West grants students an exclusive view of a performance's final dress rehearsal. A member of the Ballet West education staff lead pre-presentation discussions and intermission chats which enable students to recognize audience attributes, evaluate authenticity, substance and excellence, and engage in aesthetic activities.
Digital study guides align with the content of shorter school-hour performances, enriching students' experience. Overall, First Look enhances students' understanding of ballet, fostering aesthetic appreciation and personal growth through intimate exposure to the art form's intricacies.
We have the ability to accept groups as small as one or two students, teachers attending on their own, or large groups attending together. Parent chaperones are welcome as well. We’re very flexible. This must be arranged through the teacher of any particular group. Please share this opportunity with other faculty members who may be interested in taking advantage of this unique event for their students and themselves.
- All Performances are at the Jesse Quinney Eccles Capitol Theater, 50 West 200 South, SLC, Utah
- Reserve early – seating is limited. To reserve seats or for questions, please contact us at 801-869-6911 or at education@balletwest.org
- Groups of 40 or more may request a student/teacher workshop to supplement their attendance at a Ballet West First Look presentation. Availability is limited.
We would love to hear from you with any questions or comments regarding our programs, or for information, you can reach us at education@balletwest.org or by calling us at 801-869-6911.
The opportunity to contribute amplifies the community's role in nurturing positive change and sustaining our transformative experiences. Ballet West's community programming not only celebrates the art of ballet but also resonates with its commitment to creating meaningful connections and inspiring progress in all participants. To make a tax-deductible contribution in support of First Look and other Ballet West education and outreach programs, visit our donation page!
Upcoming First Look Performances
Jekyll & Hyde
Based on the 19th-century story by Robert Louis Stevenson comes a new, full-length ballet of Jekyll & Hyde. Following the smash success of last year's Dracula comes the next gripping production exploring the dark side of the human psyche. Come witness the dynamic portrayal of Dr. Jekyll and his evil split personality in this horror classic.
- Seating Limited to Utah State Public School Faculty
- University students also invited
Oct 24, 2024, Thurs. 6:30 pm
“Appropriately Nightmarish!”– Broadway World's review of Jekyll and Hyde
Pictures at an Exhibition
Pictures at an Exhibition is a thrilling triple-bill featuring TWO Utah premieres by two of the world's most renowned living choreographers! This trio of ballets features George Balanchine's heart-melting Serenade, Alexei Ratmansky's intimate suite of dances to Modest Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition, and Tony-Award winning choreographer Christopher Wheeldon's Vivaldi-inspired Within the Golden Hour. With music performed live by the Ballet West Orchestra.
Nov 7, 2024, Thur. 6:30 pm.
“Mysterious and Mystical”– Backtrack's review of Pictures at an Exhibition
Cinderella
In a world where anything is possible, Cinderella comes to life in the hopes of a lowly maid, with the love of a prince and the magic of a wand. Sir Frederick Ashton's world-renowned production of Cinderella is a lavish and extravagant telling of the classic fairytale, with comedic twists and turns. FEATURING NEW SETS AND COSTUMES, from London's Royal Ballet, never before seen in Utah. This production is a treat for the entire family.
Feb 6, 2024, Thurs. 6:30 pm
"A Visual Delight!"– TATLER
Aladdin
Join us as the world-famous Ballet West dancers bring one of the most beloved of fairy tales to life through the magic of ballet. Sword fights, dazzling costumes, and a dancing camel! Performed in just over an hour with narration. This lively and entertaining performance will provide proof that there’s more than one way to help our children understand how and why a classic fairy tale becomes a “classic”
Mar 27, 2025, Thur. 6:00 pm.
“A magical ride!” – Salt Lake Tribune
Rite of Spring
An Evening of Stravinsky! Three incredible ballets in one night: Apollo, Balanchine's 1928 ballet of a young God coming into his own, the Ballet West premiere of Jiří Kylián's emotional Symphony of Psalms (Ballet West premiere), which takes us on a spiritual journey with a full chorus of singers and orchestra, and the return of Nicolo Fonte's popular The Right of Spring a primal exploration of life, death, and rebirth with contemporary choreography. Experience Stravinsky's extraordinary range of evocative music that breathes life into captivating dance narratives.
Apr 3, 2025, Thur. 6:30 pm.
“An absolute must-see!” — Salt Lake Tribune's review of Rite of Spring
**All performances are subject to change