Dynamic Ballet Performance Interprets Spirits of Nature at Desert Botanical Garden

PHOENIX – Ballet Arizona’s The Four Seasons, a ballet depicting a journey in movement through spring, summer, autumn and winter, is making its triumphant return this May at the annual ‘An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden’ event. Arizonans are invited to a night of ballet surrounded by the matchless desert landscape and setting sun from May 15 through June 1, 2024. 

Set to the vibrant score of Antonio Vivaldi, The Four Seasons was choreographed by acclaimed Artistic Director, Ib Andersen, and premiered in 2021. With costumes designed and hand-painted by Andersen, this production is truly an artistic labor of love. 

“The Four Seasons captures the essence of our ever-changing seasons and is the perfect conclusion to our 2023-2024 season,” said Andersen. “This score has to be one of the most celebrated in the classical canon and was a fun but challenging piece to choreograph on our dancers. There is so much depth and so many layers to this piece. It is actually twelve different movements, and it changes constantly and dramatically. This piece will be a visual feast full of exquisite energy that can only be enhanced by the outdoor desert landscape.”

Andersen’s previous work at the Garden inspired The New York Times former chief dance critic, Alastair Macaulay, to designate Ballet Arizona as “one of the most enterprising companies anywhere.” Past Desert Botanical Garden debuts Eroica, Topia and Round have drawn critical acclaim, with sellout crowds at nearly every performance. 

The Four Seasons is dedicated to the memory of Oonagh and John Boppart. Ballet Arizona honors them with their favorite Ballet Arizona tradition, ‘An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden.’

Tickets for The Four Seasons are available now and expected to sell out. All 14 performances begin at 8 p.m. at the Desert Botanical Garden. Tickets start at $60. Arrive early and watch the professional company take ballet class on stage. A gourmet picnic menu is available for purchase including beer, wine and non-alcoholic refreshments. For the best tickets and prices, always purchase directly from Ballet Arizona at balletaz.org.