Atlanta Ballet Presents New Choreographic Voices Tonight, 5/18

This month, Atlanta Ballet (AB) Artistic Director John McFall presents another cast of emerging choreographers in the Company's now annual production New Choreographic Voices (NCV) – a mixed repertory program featuring two world premieres and an Atlanta Ballet premiere on the Alliance Stage at The Woodruff Arts Center tonight, May 18 thru May 20.

The three standout chorographers, including AB dancer Tara Lee, combine classical dance with daring new movement, music, and diversity that McFall describes as "emotional, inspiring, and intellectually stirring."

This year's production marks the second season Atlanta Ballet will present the edgy program of premieres. Last season's show, which was then titled Ignition: New Choreographic Voices, featured three world premieres, including the powerful, Atlanta-inspired "Home in 7" by choreographer Amy Seiwert. 

Tara Lee's "Pavo" - World Premiere | Original Score by Atlantan Nickitas Demos (Performed Live) 

Best known as a company dancer in her 16th season with Atlanta Ballet, Tara Lee has proven that she's as dynamic offstage as she is on. 

 Artistic Director John McFall has commissioned Lee three times to create new works for the Atlanta Ballet.  Her last creation for the ensemble was in 2004, and now Lee returns with the world premiere of "Pavo" - a unique alliance of classical and contemporary movement styles inspired by the beauty and symbolism of the peacock. 

"I came across an article about the spiritual significance of the peacock, and it ended up inspiring the central themes of the ballet. The peacock has the ability to digest poisonous snakes, so it represents transforming one's poisonous tendencies into something beautiful."

Lee's work is also marked by collaboration. Assisting her with the choreography and artistic direction is fellow company dancer Jesse Tyler.

"One of the best parts about this project has been working so closely with the dancers. They've been a huge part of the creative process and tremendous collaborators. I knew they were amazing before, but being able to step back and work with them in this capacity has made me appreciate their artistry even more."

To accompany her choreography, Lee commissioned Georgia State University professor Nickitas Demos to create an original score for the work, which will be performed live by Atlanta DJ Jen Mitchell and percussionist, saxophonist and cellist from the Atlanta Ballet Orchestra.