Ballet Memphis Showcases New Artistic Vision

News Summary

Ballet Memphis embarks on its 38th season, introducing an exciting new work from choreographer Emilia Sandoval. The company continues to prioritize artistic growth and diversity through commissioned pieces and a commitment to local talent, under the direction of artist Steven McMahon. Ballet Memphis reflects their evolution with 28 performances and a focus on community engagement, ensuring a bright future in the arts.

Exciting Times for Ballet Memphis!

In the vibrant city of Memphis, something truly delightful is unfolding at Ballet Memphis. The talented dancer Emilia Sandoval has just unveiled her third commissioned piece for the company, adding her flair to their impressive lineup. This latest work reaffirms the company’s commitment to artistic growth and creativity, and by all accounts, it’s a beautiful addition to the performance calendar!

Artistic Growth in Every Step

As Ballet Memphis dives into its 38th season, it’s exploring complex themes like good versus evil and the thin line between sanity and madness. Can you believe it? Just last year, they even took on the swirling darkness of “Dracula,” adding a spooky yet elegant touch to their repertoire. The company’s artistic director has been quite vocal about Sandoval’s innate talent, noting how her dance style seems to flow effortlessly from within her, captivating audiences and critics alike.

A Legacy of Transformation

Ballet Memphis was founded way back in 1986 by the visionary Dorothy Gunther Pugh, who started the company with just two dancers and a humble budget of $75,000. Fast forward to today, and the company now boasts 18 dancers and an impressive annual budget of $4.2 million! The transformation over the years has been nothing short of astonishing. Back in 2017, Ballet Memphis unveiled a stunning $22 million headquarters, a hub for creativity and performance, reflecting the company’s ongoing dedication to providing a platform for artists.

Guided by Vision

In 2019, Steven McMahon took the reins as artistic director, stepping into shoes worn by only one other individual in the company’s history. With a rich background as a former dancer at Ballet Memphis between 2004 and 2016, McMahon has choreographed over 30 ballets for the organization! His vision has pivoted towards addressing larger societal questions while enhancing the legacy of choreography that deeply resonates with Southern music and literature.

Empowering New Voices

An exciting initiative has gathered momentum under McMahon’s leadership: commissioning works from emerging choreographers like Sandoval, Marcus Willis, Alia Kache, and Durante Verzola. Not only does this foster a spirit of creativity, but it also leads to an enriching landscape of diverse artistic expression. Ballet Memphis has also rolled out a dancer-choreographed program called INTERIORWORKS, which aims to provide opportunities for dancers to showcase their own choreography. This spirit of collaboration and empowerment is what sets Ballet Memphis apart!

Focus on Diversity

The company is devoted to a promising future of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Ballet Memphis has aligned its initiatives with the city’s evolving demographic profile, ensuring that everyone has a place within the vibrant dance community. With a yearly schedule filled with 28 performances, audiences can expect a rich and engaging array of shows that reflect a variety of perspectives. Auditions for dancers are held annually in major cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Houston, making it accessible to a wider pool of talent.

A Sustainable Future

For dancers at Ballet Memphis, the journey is sustainable with a starting salary of $650 per week and contracts extending over a 38-week period. This commitment not only helps them thrive as artists but nurtures their growth and individuality. McMahon emphasizes the importance of fostering a collaborative spirit and recognizing the unique qualities that each dancer brings to the stage.

What’s Next?

Looking ahead, Ballet Memphis has thrilling plans, including a new production of The Nutcracker set to premiere in December! The excitement is palpable, and with the company’s commitment to artistic innovation, the upcoming shows promise to be enchanting experiences for all. So, if you find yourself in Memphis, make sure to check out what Ballet Memphis is up to – you won’t be disappointed!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Ballet Memphis Introduces New Dance Work by Emilia Sandoval
Ballet Memphis Welcomes New Choreography by Emilia Sandoval
Arts and Cultural Events Happening in Memphis This Weekend
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Additional Resources

• Daily Memphian: Ballet Memphis 2025 Winter Mix Highlights
• Daily Memphian: 2025 Winter Mix
• Daily Memphian: Ballet Memphis’ 38th Season
• Pointe Magazine: Ballet Memphis
• Daily Memphian: October 2022 Issue
• Wikipedia: Ballet Memphis
• Google Search: Ballet Memphis
• Google Scholar: Ballet Memphis
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Ballet
• Google News: Ballet Memphis