Smuin Contemporary Ballet launches its 29th season with a world premiere by Osnel Delgado

Smuin will kick off its 29th season with a long-awaited world premiere from brilliant Cuban choreographer Osnel Delgado, whose work captures the passion, cultural mix and uncertainty that defines life in Cuba and beyond. Smuin’s artistic director, Celia Fushille, first saw Delgado’s work during a trip to Cuba ten years ago and has since worked to bring the acclaimed choreographer to San Francisco – a collaboration originally planned for 2020. but derailed by the pandemic. Delgado, who draws inspiration from Cuba’s rich and varied dance traditions – from Afro-Cuban rhythms, to Cuba’s beloved ballet culture, to its vibrant modern dance scene – will present a new work to the dancers of Smuin .

Also on view is Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s hugely popular Requiem for a Rose, titled “Brilliant” by the San Francisco Chronicle. Set to Schubert’s Romantic String Adagio of the Quintet in C, Requiem for a Rose examines both the fleeting nature of romance and the enduring devotion of love. Finally, the music of the jazz legend Dave Brubeck will come to life in Take Five by former Society member Rex Wheeler (who recently rose to international fame as the first runner-up of the 2022 season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race”.) This exuberant tribute to the jazz icon, developed in Smuin’s own choreography showcase, offers a charming and colorful set of inventive and surprising movements at the height of the historical standard of jazz.

TICKETS: For tickets ($25-$99) or more information, the public can call (415) 912-1899 or visit www.smuinballet.org.

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Discounts available for students and groups of 10 or more.