I had the delight of attending the Sacramento Ballet’s popular Beer & Ballet on opening night, May 28 with two friends on May 28at The Sofia. The program of 17 world premiere works choreographed and performed by Sacramento Ballet’s own company was varied and fascinating. Because each ticket includes a complimentary beverage — beer, wine, or a non-alcoholic option — (with craft beer provided by Bike Dog Brewing Company), patrons are drawn into a relaxed atmosphere that allows audiences to experience dance in a new way.
Still buoyed by the energy of the performance the next day, I shared with a friend that the show was fantastic. She said she used to see these shows thirty years ago and “Are they still going on?” You bet, and I’m sure better than ever. “Beer & Ballet” began in 1994 as an informal opportunity for the troupe’s dancers to step from the back of the class and showcase their own choreography, sharing their original works and reflecting their individual voices, and perspectives.
Courtesy of the Sacramento Ballet
As a first-time viewer, one of my guests was simply blown away – we all were. Each new dance was surprising and compelling. The 17 original premieres offered a wide spectrum of choreographic styles ranging from bold contemporary explorations to intimate, narrative-driven works. We observed a remarkable level of skill, creativity, energy and a sense of joy. Beloved company artist Enrico Hipolito will be missed as this is the last performance with the Sacramento Ballet before a new chapter in nursing school begins.
ZoartPhotography.Sacramento Ballet Company Artists in Isabella Velasquez’s “The Bodies We Borrow”
“Beer & Ballet is where our dancers’ voices come fully to life,” said Elise Elliott, Rehearsal Director. “It’s an opportunity for them to take creative ownership, experiment, and share something deeply personal with our audiences.” “There’s an incredible sense of energy and discovery in this program,” added Stefan Calka, Rehearsal Director. “Each piece offers a different perspective, and together they create an evening that is as diverse and exciting as the artists themselves.”
Photo:ZoartPhotography
While this entire show was amazing, a few aspects stood out. Between some of the numbers a few of the choreographers stepped out to share who they are. This drew me in as I learned how long the person was with the company, how many pieces they had choreographed and what inspired the work being performed. The lighting was an important element in the dances, sometimes multicolor, sometimes sharp and bright and other times soft and gentle. Some of the numbers began with a silhouette. The music ranged from Chopin accompanying a gorgeous classical work, “Valse Courante”, to the powerful drum beat of “Kwento”, uniquely moving dance forward.
I never expected tap, but some of the dance troupe have tap in their background and the choreography in “Tap and Tequila” moved seamlessly, from tap back to ballet.
ZoartPhotography.James Griffen in James Griffen’s “Not Me”
And there was humor and much laughter as we enjoyed “Any Way the Wind Blows” set to “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. “Pogi” ended the evening, gentle and lovely, danced by Sarah Joan Smith and Enrico Hipolito as a farewell. There was one solo, “Not Me” contrasted to the large number of dancers in several works, “The Bodies we Borrow” and “Vicis”. The costumes are managed by the choreographers, one brought costumes from afar and others have access to the company’s costume maker.
Photo:ZoartPhotography
Sacramento Ballet has been a beacon of artistic excellence since it was founded in 1954, bringing world-class dance performances, education, and community outreach programs.to the California Capital Region. Sacramento Ballet’s mission is to enhance the human condition through dance, making this transformative art form accessible to all. Beer & Ballet contribute to Sacramento’s cultural vibrancy by presenting bold, contemporary work alongside the classical canon. This commitment to innovation strengthens the region’s artistic identity, supports the local creative economy, and reinforces Sacramento’s standing as a city where world-class art is both created and celebrated.
What are you waiting for? There are performances still: • Friday, May 29 at 7:30 PM• Saturday, May 30 at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM• Sunday, May 31 at 2:00 PM