"Dance Theatre of Harlem" returns with 4 bold works

"Dance Theatre of Harlem will grace the Detroit Opera House stage November 15-16, marking the return of one of ballet's most celebrated companies to the Motor City. The performances represent the third stop of the company's 2025-26 season, featuring a program that blends classical tradition with contemporary innovation. Under the artistic direction of Robert Garland, the company will present four distinct works, headlined by the highly anticipated return of Firebird-a production the company has not performed in over two decades."

"The legendary Firebird first emerged in Dance Theatre of Harlem's repertoire in 1982, featuring choreography by John Taras set to Igor Stravinsky's timeless score. Geoffrey Holder's vibrant costumes and sets transformed the traditional Russian folktale into a Caribbean-inspired dreamscape, creating a visual feast of color and cultural fusion. The ballet's narrative follows the classic themes of good conquering evil and love bringing renewal, messages that resonated deeply with audiences when it premiered."

"Garland's Nyman String Quartet No. 2, set to Michael Nyman's music, explores the cultural intersections that define contemporary America. The sophisticated piece highlights the company's versatility and ability to navigate complex artistic territories with both intelligence and wit. Garland dedicated this work to two influential figures: John Wesley Carlos, the Olympic track and field medalist known for his iconic 1968 victory podium salute, and Arthur Mitchell, Dance Theatre of Harlem's founder and artistic director emeritus who passed away in 2018."

Dance Theatre of Harlem will perform at the Detroit Opera House on November 15-16 as the third stop of its 2025-26 season. Robert Garland will lead the company in four works blending classical tradition with contemporary innovation. The centerpiece is a revival of Firebird, last staged by the company over two decades ago, featuring John Taras's choreography, Stravinsky's score, and Geoffrey Holder's Caribbean-inspired costumes and sets. Additional works include Garland's Nyman String Quartet No. 2, dedicated to John Wesley Carlos and Arthur Mitchell, and the Detroit premiere of Jodie Gates's Passage of Being. The program emphasizes artistic excellence and community connection.

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