Celts Generously Underwritten by Mrs. Norah Orphanides
Choreography by Lila York Music by
The Chieftains - Treasure Cave Mason Daring - Piper’s Lullaby Drumming by William J. Ruyle The Chieftains - Dunmore Lassies Celtic Thunder - Slip Jig: Foxhunter’s Bill Whelan - Caracena Costume Design by Tunji Dada Lighting Design by James F. Ingalls Staged by Elizabeth Coker
World Premiere: March 21, 1996 by Boston Ballet at The Wang Theatre in Boston, Massachusetts.
Houston Ballet Premiere: September 9, 2004 in the Brown Theater at Wortham Theater Center in Houston, Texas.
WHAT YOU’RE WATCHING A jubilant and high-energy homage to her Irish heritage, Lila York’s Celts premiered in 1996 with Boston Ballet, commissioned by then-artistic director Bruce Marks. The ballet, inspired by a trip to Ireland for her parents’ fiftieth wedding anniversary, blends classical ballet technique with the percussive movements and intricate footwork of Irish folk dance to depict Ireland’s history and culture. The ballet opens with three dancers, including a couple representing the ancient past and a boy in green symbolizing the unbreakable energy of Ireland. As the piece progresses, York explores various facets of Irish life chronologically, from the fierce warriors of Celtic history to a haunting pas de deux inspired by a Galway folk tale. The work culminates in an exuberant, fast-paced finale, where the music swells with the sounds of bagpipes, reflecting Ireland’s transition into a new, prosperous era. WHAT YOU’RE LISTENING TO When commissioned, Marks gave York one stipulation: she had to use recorded music. Instead of opting for pop music, York chose music that would be challenging for a traditional orchestra to perform. The score for Celts is a vibrant mix of traditional Irish tunes and modern interpretations, featuring compositions by the Grammy Award- winning Irish group The Chieftains, The Secret of Roan Inish composer Mason Daring, percussionist and York’s friend William J. Ruyle, Riverdance composer Bill Whelan, and the eclectic Irish singing group Celtic Thunder.
“
It is a privilege to underwrite Lila York’s Celts for Houston Ballet, a production that challenges conventions and celebrates the dynamic possibilities of dance. Supporting innovative works like this ensures the continued growth and excitement of the art form.”
MRS. NORAH ORPHANIDES PRODUCTION UNDERWRITER
Pamela Lane and Ian Casady. Photo by Jim Caldwell.
HOUSTON BALLET
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