This summer, from 21st to 23rd June 2024, witness the world premiere of ‘Dream of a Common Language’, a unique ballet performance brought to you by ‘Queer the Ballet’ in partnership with Baruch Performing Arts Center. Experience the power of ballet in evening performances at 7:30 pm on June 21 and 22 and matinee shows at 2 pm on June 22 and 23 at the Baruch Performing Arts Center, 55 Lexington Avenue, New York. Book your tickets online today at https://bpac.baruch.cuny.edu/. Student concessions available.
This ballet is a novel interpretation, inspired by the poetic brilliance of lesbian writer and activist Adrienne Rich’s 1978 poetry collection, ‘Dream of a Common Language’. The brainchild of Adriana Pierce, the founder of Queer the Ballet, the ballet hones the creativity of choreographers including Adriana Pierce, Minnie Lane, Rosie Elliott, and Lenai Alexis Wilkerson. Emily DeMaioNewton’s dramaturgy amplifies the vibrancy of this creation.
The performance brings the journey of six dancers to life, celebrating community, friendship, romance, and sharing the heartbreaks. It reflects on the parallels between Adrienne Rich’s quest for a queer community in the 70s and the contemporary search of queer ballet dancers for their tribe. From mountaintops to dimly lit bars, this ballet sheds light on the trials and triumphs of LGBTQ+ individuals across history and the yearning of queer dancers today for a common language that binds.
Queer the Ballet is proud to present this performance in association with Baruch Performing Arts Center and appreciates the support from the CUNY Dance Initiative performance residency grant.
Meet the Performers
Lenai Alexis Wilkerson, a distinguished artist, hails from Washington D.C., with credits including Ballet Hispánico and Cincinnati Ballet. Annia Hidalgo, a gold medalist at the International Ballet Competition brings her Cuban influence to the stage. Lauren Flower from Tucson, a member of the Oregon Ballet Theatre, embellishes the performance with her wide range of experience. Ayla O’Day, Mia Domini, and Demi Trezona, three dancing virtuosos, contribute their unique aesthetics and dynamics to this groundbreaking performance.
Come, be a part of this revolutionary ballet that celebrates diversity and unity all under one roof.