Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida brings back Le Papillon and The Spring Ballet Gala

Following the resounding success of The Nutcracker, Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida, under the direction of Artistic Director Vladimir Issaev, is delighted to announce the return of another exquisite ballet production sure to captivate audiences of all ages.

Commencing in March 2024, Arts Ballet’s spring programming will feature the enchanting ballet Le Papillon (The Butterfly), set to the music of Offenbach and choreographed by the awarded choreographer Vladimir Issaev himself. This will be followed in April by the highly anticipated “Spring Ballet Gala,” showcasing a diverse repertoire including timeless classics such as “Petrouchka”, “Le Spectre de la Rose”, and a tribute to the iconic painter “Klimt”. Audiences can anticipate the virtuosity of Arts Ballet Theatre’s professional dancers as they masterfully navigate the intricate neo-classical ballet pieces.

Company dancers include a group of impressive international and local dancers: Saaya Okada, Remina Tanaka, Ataru Matsuya, Yoichi Habaguchi (Japan); Kirsty Walker from the UK, Jose Luis Pechené (Colombia), among others.

Le Papillon, with original choreography by Vladimir Issaev, is a captivating two-act ballet Inspired by an enchanting fairy tale. First premiered by the Paris Opera Ballet, the narrative unfolds with the malevolent fairy Hamza, (usually performed by a male dancer on pointe) a kidnapped princess Farfalla, and a noble prince Djalma. As Hamza transforms Farfalla into a butterfly, the stage is set for a tale of magic, romance, and redemption. Through powerful performances by Arts Ballet’s professional corps, exquisite sets and costumes, and the artistry of Issaev’s choreography, audiences will be transported into a world where love triumphs over adversity.

Don’t miss an unforgettable evening of dance as Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida continues to delight and inspire audiences with the beauty and artistry of classical ballet.

Le Papillon will be at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, March 2 & 3. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased here. It will then be performed at Broward Center for the Performing Arts (Amaturo Theater), March 9 & 10. Tickets are $40 and can be purchased here.

Scheduled to dazzle audiences in April 2024, the Spring Gala Ballet promises an evening of unparalleled artistry and sophistication. The program features iconic works such as the renowned “Le Spectre de la Rose”, alongside original creations like “A Celebration of Klimt”, which brings to life the enchanting music of Handel in a mesmerizing ballet tribute. Additionally, audiences will be treated to Ballet Master Vladimir Issaev’s interpretation of “Petrouchka”, set to the magnificent score by Igor Stravinsky.

Join Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida for an extraordinary evening of dance as they showcase the unparalleled talent and artistry of their dancers in a celebration of classical ballet.

The Gala will be at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on April 13. Tickets are $40 and can be found here. The Gala will then travel to Broward Center for the Performing Arts on April 14. Tickets are $40 and can be found here.

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida Le Papillon Janis Liu and Taiyu He as friends, Image credit Patricia Laine Romero