Extraordinary is a part of the program

There’s just something magical about a live performance: the electric hush as you cross the threshold into the theatre, the outside world giving way as you are immersed a fantastic world – a culmination of talent, imagination, and dedication converge for just a moment in time. For the audience and performers alike, it’s an intrinsic experience where possibility feels boundless, and the memories last long after the curtain closes.

A step back in time‍

Alberta Ballet was founded in 1966 by Ruth Carse and Muriel Taylor and has been evolving ever since. Today, it encompasses both an internationally recognized professional performing arts company and the Alberta Ballet School, where students are trained in classical techniques, emerging as highly proficient performers, who are well-versed and prepared to share their talents to audiences world-wide.

At United Active Living, many residents have been attending Alberta Ballet performances for decades: witnessing first-hand how the ballet has evolved over the years, and always excited to check out a reimagined rendition of a classic program.

This year, thanks to United’s partnership with the Alberta Ballet, residents were invited to a special preview of Romeo and Juliet, getting a sneak peek at the breathtaking choreography by internationally renowned Artistic Director Francesco Ventriglia, and dazzling costumes created by Academy Award winning designer James Acheson.

It’s clear from the scope of the production that while the rigidity of the ballet may have relaxed over the years, the splendor and spectacle of the ballet hasn’t: the calibre of performance remains steadfast and timeless, just like the stories brought to life on stage.

A ‘point-ed’ connection

Trish, a resident of United’s Fish Creek community for six years, attended the preview performance before its premiere last month. “It was absolutely marvellous! The choreography was unbelievable – the chemistry between Romeo (Rémy Grey) and Juliet (Hinata Takahara) was just beautiful,” she says. “This was my first time seeing a ballet performance, and I am just so thrilled. The director (Francesco Ventriglia) was very lovely and even spoke to us from the stage. He has visited us at Fish Creek as well to speak about the ballet, so it was nice to see the performance after learning about what goes into the production.”

Trish adds, “These experiences are so special, and I try to make it out to all of the performances. It’s so important to see art, and it’s such a wonderful opportunity. Jill really does seek out incredible experiences for us to enjoy. It’s very meaningful for me and my fellow residents.”

Jill LaForty, United’s Music Director, plays a key role in building local partnerships with organizations like Alberta Ballet, creating exclusive and intimate cultural experiences for residents.

“Attending the ballet is a truly broadening experience,” Jill says. “For some residents, it was their very first performance, and for most, their first time seeing Romeo & Juliet. They were completely captivated by the movement, sets, costumes, and music coming together to create something magical. Experiences like this spark curiosity and confidence, and that ripple effect is felt throughout the community.” Jill continues, “When residents witness the extraordinary artistry that Francesco and the performers are achieving at Alberta Ballet, it shifts their sense of what’s possible: both in our city and in their own lives. They leave feeling uplifted after a wonderful night out and eager to do more. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to try something new. There are always new possibilities just around the corner, if we’re open to them.”

For Francesco Ventriglia, Artistic Director of Alberta Ballet, partnering with United Active Living offers the opportunity for everyone to experience the joy of a live performance. “Partnerships like the one we have with United are meaningful because they create memories of shared experience. For residents, participating in a cultural event can spark memories, conversation, and connection. For the broader community, it reinforces the idea that the arts are not exclusive: they are intergenerational and accessible. When we see audiences from different walks of life engaging with the same story, it affirms why we do this work. ”Francesco continues, “When I see dance spark memory and conversation with United residents, I’m reminded why I chose this profession. Those connections are a big part of what I love about my role at Alberta Ballet.”

Coming together, step by step

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or stepping into the theatre for the first time, that hush before the curtain rises belongs to all of us. At United, partnering with local organizations like the Alberta Ballet highlights the joy and connection residents feel with the performance, bringing stories to life in ways that resonate long after the final bow. It’s more than a show: it’s a shared experience that celebrates creativity, sparks conversation, and strengthens the sense of community, reminding us all that the magic of live theatre is best enjoyed together.

Check out United’s programming calendars and join us for an encore. Bravissimo!

Alberta Ballet Romeo and Juliet production photos by Mike Hopkins. Featuring performers Zoe Horn, Bel Johnson-Darby, Victoria Bourassa, Kate McDonald, Kairi Watanabe, Hinata Takahara, Hotaru Maruyama, and Chizuru Kikuchi.