Ballet North Texas kicks off their 2020-2021 season Saturday, Sept. 26 with Night on the Trinity.

Nicolina Lawson, Artistic Director, Ballet North Texas

BNT’s artistic director Nicolina Lawson says the Trinity River is the inspiration for the company’s program of classical and contemporary dance because the ancient North Texas river is constantly flowing, giving life and renewing itself just like the dances selected.

“We have the classics, but at the same time we’re renewing ourselves, so we bring in new choreographers and new pieces as well,” said Lawson. “This year, two of the older pieces we’re bringing are an excerpt from La Corsair performed by Frontier Ballet, and we’re doing an excerpt from Swan Lake. So those are two very classic — some of the oldest ballets there are.”

Photo: Sharen Bradford/Ballet North Texas

Lawson says the “new” in the program comes from Kiyon Gaines Ross, with the Pacific North Ballet, and Anna Sessions, BNT assistant artistic director, who are both choreographing contemporary pieces.

The show will also feature live musical accompaniment from composer Quinn Mason and the musicians of MAKE Trio — Mikhail Berestnev, Danny Goldman, and Grace Wollett.

“This is a great opportunity to see a range of classical and contemporary movement set to live music. We know how much people have missed live performances since theaters have been dark for six months.”

Night on the Trinity happens Saturday, Sept. 26 at 8:30 p.m. at AT&T PAC’s Strauss Square, which recently reopened for live performances.

Photo: Sheran Bradford/Ballet North Texas

“The outdoor venue is not only a beautiful backdrop, but it also allows for social distancing to keep our patrons and dancers safe,” said Lawson. “Also, the performance is just 60 minutes, to avoid intermissions.”

“I really hope that people come to this live performance and be a part of the art. Seeing something live, especially with live music, it just gets into your soul.”

Got a tip? Email Therese Powell at tpowell@kera.org. You can follow her on Twitter @TheresePowell13

Art&Seek is made possible through the generosity of our members. If you find this reporting valuable, consider making a tax-deductible gift today. Thank you