Piotr Stanczyk Takes His Final Bow In Passion [UPDATED 10/21/23]

Piotr Stanczyk Takes His Final Bow in Passion

Principal Dancer Piotr Stanczyk, whose artistry has graced The National Ballet of Canada‘s stage for a quarter-century, will take his final bow on November 18.

To honor his successful career and the relationship Stanczyk had with one of the company’s previous leaders, Artistic Director Hope Muir has secured a meaningful ballet to serve as his grand finale: James Kudelka’s Passion.

Originally created for the Houston Ballet in 2013, Passion will make its Canadian premiere, telling a love story intricately woven to mirror the soul-stirring melodies of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Concerto for Piano in D, Op. 61a.

The ballet unfolds with the dynamic interplay of two couples, each representing contrasting facets of passion – one classical, the other contemporary.

Stanczyk will assume the role of the contemporary male dancer, a testament to his charisma, exceptional technique, and partnering skills. The dancer, known as one of the company’s most outstanding dramatic artists, will undoubtedly breathe life into this role, leaving a lasting impression on all who witness his final act.

Also on the program is the world premiere of Helen Pickett’s Emma Bovary, inspired by the goings-on of the mind of the female protagonist in Gustave Flaubert’s 19th-century novel, Madame Bovary.

“Emma Bovary does not tell the story of Flaubert’s novel. Rather, it dives into the complex psychology of the title character, a young woman whose attachment to romantic ideals disconnects her from reality, leading to her demise.”

The title role will be danced by Principal Dancer Heather Ogden, First Soloist Jenna Savella and Second Soloist Hannah Galway.

The ballet is set to an original score by Peter Salem who also composed the music for Pickett’s work The Crucible.