NewYC Ballet - New Look inside Koch Theatre

There's a new experience in the Koch Theatre.  The NYCB art commission, FAILE, has just mounted the cutting edge block structures inside.  The tower of blocks on the 2nd floor promenade reaches up to balcony level.  Brooklyn based artists McNeil & Miller accessed the ballet's archives and for photos, posters, promotional materials to highlight dancers along with some of their signature iconography:  wolves, political figures, & sexual provacative images.  The sculptures are an amalgamation of vivid colors and arresting images that elicit a high power impact of energy & movement.  Each time you view   the work, you'll find something new & arresting.  Oh yes, there was dancing last night, also.  Jerome Robbins' N. Y. Export: Opus Jazz which 1st premiered in 1958.  It felt contemporary & exciting; a blend of his West Side Story & Glass Pieces with scenery by politically outspoken artist, Ben Shahn.  Robbins expands the boundaries between ballet & developing dance forms.  Perhaps, this is why his choreography still feels modern, timeless and evocative.   George Balanchine's Symphony in 3 Movements to Stravinsky's music is an iconic work from 1972.  Symphony in 3 Movements still sets the bar for timeless elegance and artistry.  Before, Balanchine's ballet, the orchestra pit rouse to stage level performing Stravinsky's music.  The conductor turned to the audience & elaborated on the propulsive rythm that underlies Balanchine's athletic choreography.  The conductor's dialogue gave an added element for appreciating the creative collaboration between these two artistic genuises,  Stravinksy & Balanchine.  NYCB deserves to be viewed in a new light.  The Company is merging the world of art, music & dance for a more rewarding experience.