Ready to be transported to a realm of grace? Here stands the San Francisco Ballet. It is a company with a rich history. San Francisco Ballet has a global reputation for dance excellence.
San Francisco Ballet is America’s oldest professional ballet company. It was founded in 1933. Initially, it was named the San Francisco Opera Ballet. Its original purpose was to train dancers. These dancers would perform in full-length opera productions. In 1942, the company split. Separate companies were created for ballet and opera. Thus, the San Francisco Ballet was born.
San Francisco Ballet gradually broadened its travels. It established itself as a significant part of American ballet. In 1957, it was the first American ballet company to tour the Far East. They performed in eleven Asian nations. In 1972, Lew Christensen brought the company to its home. This home was the War Memorial Opera House. He named the theater its official residence.
The San Francisco Ballet is known for its skilled ballet dancers. Many dancers train at the associated school. They aspire to join the main company. The school was established in 1933. Today, Helgi Tomasson directs it. The school attracts students from around the world. It trains about 350 young dancers each year.
San Francisco Ballet has a dream-like repertoire. They perform magnificent pieces. These include stylized works by George Balanchine. Other choreographers include Sir Frederick Ashton. August Bournonville and Wayne McGregor also contribute. The company performs up to 100 shows per year. This keeps the dancers inspired. It challenges them with different performances. The company tours internationally. They visit prominent cities like London and Paris. They share their treasured talent. They gladly show off to the world.
San Francisco Ballet has a school program too. It includes classes in technique and pointe work. They also teach pas de deux. Classes cover men’s technique and contemporary dance. Floor barre and conditioning are included. Character dance is also taught. Students are placed in divisions. This is based on age, experience, and ability. Over 50 percent of current San Francisco Ballet dancers trained at the school.
In 1938, the company’s first major production was Coppélia. Willam Christensen choreographed it. In 1940, they staged Swan Lake. It was the first time an American company produced the ballet entirely. On Christmas Eve 1944, the company staged Nutcracker. It was the first complete production in the United States.
Helgi Tomasson became artistic director in 1985. This marked a new era for San Francisco Ballet. San Francisco Ballet is recognized as one of the most innovative companies. They commission new works by aspiring choreographers. The company’s repertoire spans classical and contemporary ballet.
San Francisco Ballet continues to enchant audiences worldwide. Its rich history and commitment to excellence make it a true gem. It is one of San Francisco’s cultural treasures.