by Moya Tobey | Photo by Todd Rosenberg

Experience the beauty and grace of dance with the Grand Rapids Ballet's presentation of Extremely Close, opening Friday, April 12 at 7:30 pm and playing at various times through Sunday, April 14.

“Extremely Close” is choreographed by Alejandro Cerrudo, resident choreographer of Hubbard Street Dance Chicago (HSDC), and staged
by Meredith Dincolo the Director of Pre-Professional programs at HSDC. The piece has been performed several times across the globe and is known as a ballet with such grace and beauty it captivates and draws the audience in, leaving them in awe. Alejandro Cerrudo is known for his enchanting scenery and music choice, and Extremely Close does not disappoint.

“There is something about the environment he creates with the whole piece, the scenic elements,” Dincolo explained. “The music he chooses creates an atmosphere that really defines the piece.”

Extremely Close includes a performance of Val Caniparoli’s Ibsen’s House, a rendition of Norwegian playwright Henrik Ibsen’s most well-known plays such as A Doll’s House and Hedda Gabler, set to a live performance of Dvorak’s Piano Quintet No. 2 played by musicians from the Grand Rapids Symphony.  The live music, according to dancer Nathan Young, creates energy and connection between the dancers and musicians that just isn’t possible with a recording, which makes for a truly mesmerizing dance.

Lastly, James Sofranko, artistic director of the Grand Rapids Ballet,  choreographed an original piece for the production that will have a New Orleans feel. Compared to the more serious tone of Ibsen’s House, this piece will be more fun and light-hearted with music from the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Purchase tickets at grballet.com. 

What: Extremely Close

When: Friday, April 12  and Saturday, April 13 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 14 at 2 p.m.

Where: Grand Rapids Ballet, 341 Ellsworth Ave SW,

Cost: Tickets start at $48. 

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Moya Tobey is a college student studying publishing at Cornerstone University. She dreams of traveling the world, fighting for victims of injustice and penning everything she sees.