When you think of dance and ballet in Philadelphia, the first thing that comes to mind is the Pennsylvania Ballet...probably because it's the only one in town.  It features top-notch ballet and numerous performances that definitely make it worthy of a visit.  This page includes information of the Ballet itself, as well as the two venues that host its performances, Merriam Theater, and the Academy of Music.

Pennsylvania Ballet

The Pennsylvania Ballet is a marvelous dance company that produces quality perform

ances which are usually performed at the Academy of Music and the Merriam Theater. The 1999-2000 looks to be one of the strongest yet, with several key dancers making their returns and lots of pomp and circumstance thrown in, too. Some of the highlights appear to be Agnes de Mille's "Rodeo," which has really caught on with the fans, and Balanchine's "Concerto Barocco," which is set against the backdrop of Bach's classical music. 

The ballet also experimented a bit, throwing in such offbeat productions as "Nice Lives: Songs of Lyle Lovett," which features fine ballet set to the music of the famous singer and ex-husband of Julia Roberts.  In addition, such classic tales as "Dracula" and "Romeo and Juliet" have been adapted for the ballet stage and feature excellent choreography and high-level talent. 

Merriam Theater
250 South Broad Street
(215)732-5446

Merriam Theater seats over 1500 art patrons and serves as the home for not only the Pennsylvania Ballet, but also the College of Performing Arts and other regional performances. For more information and dates of shows, don't hesitate to give them a call.

 

Pennsylvania Academy of Music
42 North Prince Street
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17603
Phone: (717)399-9733
Fax: (717)399-0023

The Academy of Music is an excellent facility for developing young musicians, and their campus plays host to the Pennsylvania Ballet on occasion.  For schedules and other information, contact them at the number listed above.