A Midsummer Debut

On August 20, the dance world will welcome a new interpretation of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and this one is sure to sparkle. The Royal New Zealand Ballet, previously directed by Ethan Stiefel and now lead by former La Scala dancer Francesco Ventriglia, has commissioned Liam Scarlett to choreograph a brand-new version of the comedic, whimsical work.

RNZB and Queensland Ballet are collaborating on the production, which will tour through New Zealand August 20 through September 20. Costume and set designer Tracy Grant Lord will adorn the stage with thousands of lights, butterflies and many more flecks of glitter. While Sir Frederick Ashton’s and Balanchine’s iconic versions of Midsummer are unlikely to be dislodged from company repertoires worldwide, the tale is surely in capable hands with the young Scarlett, who has cut his choreographic teeth with commissions from The Royal Ballet and New York City Ballet, among other companies. For now, we await the reception of the performance down under and hope it heads to our hemisphere soon!