Atlanta Ballet's IGNITION Sells Out Alliance Theatre

A dance can demonstrate the dangers of deforestation. A poem can bring to life the history and culture of Atlanta. A video projection can contemplate the mysteries of science and relationships through time and space.

The Atlanta Ballet Company is taking a stand to reveal the city's talented artistic voices. Creative possibilities seem to be endless in the company's season finale show, Ignition: New Choreographic Voices. The ballet company’s artistic director, John McFall, said in a release that the production brings a new dance voice to Atlanta. The choreographers collaborated with other “up-and-coming” artists to create a unique and dynamic performance in three parts.

Part 1: “Home in 7” Choreographer Amy Seiwert's dance describes a journey “from laughter to tears to hope,”to emulate the poetry of Marc Bamuthi Joseph. Joseph, graduate of Morehouse College, will speak his original poetry about themes and history of the city of Atlanta, including Southern Belles and the Atlanta Braves. Violinist and composer Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR) will accompany the performance with live music. Roumain is said to be skilled at blending funk, rock and hip-hop styles.

Part 2: “Flux” Choreographer Bennyroyce Royon, Juilliard Graduate, created a piece that “reflects on life's mystery, science, and human relationships that flow through the shifting pulse of time and space.” A soundtrack by Atlantan Son Lux (a.k.a. Ryan Lott) and video by graphic designer Rodrigo Ribeiroo will accompany and complement the dance.

Part 3: “Quietly Walking” Choreographer Gina Patterson created a dance to reflect the effects of urbanization (building “cement jungles”) and deforestation on human relationships. According to the release, Patterson’s said her choreography asks, “As we build physical walls, do we also build emotional ones?" Atlanta Ballet costume designer Jorge Gallardo and light designer Robert Hand contributed their designs to enhance the message.

Ignition is the first Atlanta Ballet production performed at the Alliance Theatre. The Friday and Saturday evening shows are sold out. Remaining shows are the Saturday and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m., as well as a recently added performance Sunday evening at 7 p.m. For tickets, click here.

Atlanta Ballet, the National Block Arts Festival and HBO are sponsoring a "wrap party" after the final performance on Sunday in the Alliance Theatre Event Room balcony level. Roumain and Bamuthi Joseph will attend the event, which includes complimentary cocktails and desserts. For tickets, click here.

Visit the Atlanta Ballet blog for updated IGNITION information and photos.