Tulsa Ballet: Strictly Gershwin

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STRICTLY GERSHWIN
Choreographer: Derek Deane

◆ Tulsa Ballet

Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin returns to the city and company that gave it its American debut – Tulsa Ballet – for a 3-performance weekend that pays tribute to the 20th century American music of brothers George and Ira Gershwin.

Originally created for English National Ballet, Strictly Gershwin is the largest production that Tulsa Ballet has in its repertoire. The 50-member Tulsa Ballet Orchestra led by Michael England will accompany ballet dancers, tap dancers, roller skaters, and singers on the Tulsa Performing Arts Center stage for an evening of high energy performance that reflects the golden age of glamour in the United States.

“Growing up in Italy, I was mesmerized by the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers movies, awe-struck by Gene Kelly and all the big band music that was part of that era. While missing much of the dialogue when watching black and white movies (I didn’t speak English at the time), the music, dance and visuals would keep me glued to the TV screen for hours.

George Gershwin’s music, and the dance style that emerged during that period, not only represent the artistic and innovative gifts of our country but also the spirit and resilience of the American people. Most of this music was composed either after World War I or during the Great Depression, and yet the music and dances of the time reflect the superb optimism of the American people for greater things to come.”

– Artistic Director Marcello Angelini

Featured photo for Tulsa Ballet production of Derek Deane’s Strictly Gershwin of Jaimi Cullen & Arman Zazyan. Photo by Josh New.