Lemon Sponge Cake Ballet

Spring is an exciting time for dance lovers in Denver – it’s when most companies try something a little new, a little fresh, a little contemporary – and showcasing the dynamics of their respective companies outside the classical realm. Starting in early February and running until summer, you can catch world class dance all along the Front Range (and beyond, check out what’s happening in Vail, as well). So read on, get inspired, check it out.

Lemon Sponge Cake Contemporary Ballet will present a world premiere, Blue, on Saturday, March 17, 2012 at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts in Denver.  It’s hard to catch this company, as they usually give you a one-night-shot at catching a glimpse of their genius – but it’s worth setting aside your St. Patrick’s Day plans to see what they’re all about. Time TBA – but it’s going to be an emotionally intense, vivid, tutu-less performance, no doubt.

Boulder Ballet has always been a treat to watch in the spring. Peter Davidson is a greatly under-rated choreographer, with a playful, colorful imagination. The company debuts Stepping Out 2012, February 17 & 18 – 8PM, and February 19 – 2PM at The Dairy Center for the Arts in Boulder. This spring’s performance will also feature works by Ana Claire, also of Boulder Ballet, and guest choreographer Valeria Madonia. Boulder Ballet will go straight from contemporary to cute in March, with their annual Storybook Ballet series, featuring an unannounced classic children’s story. These take place Friday March 9 at 7 PM, Saturday March 10 at 2 PM, Saturday March 10 at 7 PM, and Sunday March 11 at 2 PM, also at The Dairy.

Colorado Ballet brings their own children’s classic, Peter Pan, to the Ellie Caulkins Opera House from February 24th through March 4th (extensive times and dates listed here). Featuring choreographer Michael Pink and composer Philip Feeney – the artistic force behind Colorado Ballet’s Dracula, Peter Pan will be full of fantasy and a treat for all ages. Expect great things from the contemporary piece following Peter Pan, a world premiere featuring three female choreographers – Tribute, running from March 29 through April 1, also at the Newman Center for the Performing Arts.

Lastly, Ballet Nouveau Colorado will do what they do best year round – yes, more contemporary – with Love in the Digital Age running from February 3 – 12 (Fridays & Saturdays showtimes are 8pm, Sundays at 2pm). Featuring mixed media (how much more creative can they get?) BNC will touch on matters of the heart. The crowd pleasing Rock Ballets rounds out BNC’s 10th season, featuring dance to the likes of Queen and David Bowie. These performances take place April 13-15 and usually sell out.

That’s quite a bit of phenomenal dance to take in this winter and spring, Denver – and if contemporary isn’t your forte, it’s time to expand your mind and check it out. Ditching the pointe shoes and stripping down to the mechanics is refreshing, and the aforementioned companies excel at this raw and real expression.