Resurrecting Elegance

Ben Stevenson’s Enigmatic Ballet – Dracula

As the curtains rise on a new season of captivating performances, Texas Ballet Theater (TBT) prepares to transport audiences into a world of dance and darkness unlike any other. At the helm of this mesmerizing production stands Artistic Director Laureate Ben Stevenson, O.B.E., renowned for his visionary choreography that brings to life the timeless tale of Dracula. With a rich history spanning a quarter-century, this ballet serves as a testament to Stevenson’s artistic genius and the enduring allure of the immortal count.

A Choreographic Masterpiece
“I am thrilled TBT is opening our season with Artistic Director Laureate Ben Stevenson’s Dracula. This is one of Ben’s best ballets and a must-see production,” declares Artistic Director Tim O’Keefe, setting the stage for the revival of this iconic ballet. The anticipation is palpable as artists and audiences alike eagerly await the resurrection of Dracula’s mesmerizing choreography.

A Dance Of Elegance And Enigma
Originating as a choreographic masterpiece on the Houston Ballet stage, Dracula seamlessly blends classical elegance with an enigmatic allure, captivating hearts and minds for over two decades. Stevenson’s choreography masterfully intertwines romance with the macabre, resulting in a spellbinding narrative that transcends conventional boundaries and immerses the audience in a world of shadowy intrigue.

A Profound Connection
“Having the opportunity to present Dracula is a full circle moment for TBT,” reflects O’Keefe, underlining the deep resonance of the ballet’s return. Many of the company’s artistic and production staff were part of the original world premiere 25 years ago, fostering a profound connection to the ballet’s roots. As the ballet once again takes the stage, it evokes a sense of continuity and legacy that is cherished by all involved.

Reimagining The Choreographic Splendor
“Many of our artistic and production staff were part of the original world premiere 25 years ago, including myself. I am eagerly anticipating the opportunity to collaborate with Ben [Stevenson] once again on this ballet and to share its enchantment with our eager audiences,” acknowledges O’Keefe. The meticulous process of reimagining and revitalizing the choreography is a testament to the dedication of the TBT team and a tribute to the artistic collaboration that brought the original production to life. Stevenson’s guidance ensures that the ballet retains its timeless allure while embracing the present, infusing it with renewed energy and vigor.

In the realm of ballet, where movement and emotion converge in an exquisite dance, Dracula stands as a timeless masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time. Under the masterful guidance of Artistic Director Laureate Ben Stevenson, O.B.E., this ballet continues to cast a beguiling spell on audiences, conjuring an ambiance of elegance, mystery, and immortal enchantment. As TBT embarks on this artistic odyssey, the revival of Dracula serves as a tribute to the enduring potency of dance to captivate, inspire, and evoke the deepest of emotions. Through Stevenson’s choreographic brilliance, the immortal tale of Dracula lives on, an eternal dance that illuminates the stages of our hearts and minds.