American Midwest Ballet presents three main stage productions each season, performing a broad range of repertory. The company engages notable choreographers from the national dance community and produces new, innovative works by its artistic staff.
Tickets are on sale now
Sorry, the April 4 performance at the Hoff Family Arts & Culture Center is sold out. Please join us at the Orpheum Theater performance on April 11!
Patron reception may be added to tickets for an additional $25 per person. Location: Orpheum Theater’s Weaver Lounge (Apr. 11) immediately following performance, with professional dancers in attendance.
It was a time like no other – when young G.I. Joes and Rosie the Riveters gave their all to save the world. You’ll be swept away as a guy, a girl, and their friends kick up their heels, fall in love, and most of all… Swing, Swing, Swing! Created by celebrated Chicago choreographer and showman Harrison McEldowney, this exuberantly unforgettable work was American Midwest Ballet’s very first production. Now, it’s back to help us celebrate our 10th Anniversary Season!
Featuring live big band music!
SYNOPSIS: SWING, SWING, SWING!
Choreography: Harrison McEldowney
American Midwest Ballet [Ballet Nebraska] Premiere:
Orpheum Theater, October 2, 2010
It’s World War II, and a patriotic fervor unites the nation as Americans support both each other and their collective cause. Our scene is set with soldiers embarking on their daily routine – energized by spirit and determination.
At the same time, a bevy of hostesses prepares for the task ahead of them: providing entertainment to the servicemen on leave at New York’s Stage Door Canteen. The soldiers seek a happy refuge from the rigors of war at this famous establishment. Big Band music, swing dancing and a host of performers offer much-needed recreation to these American heroes. One lucky man even finds love at the canteen and a girl to call his own.
The soldiers are shipped off to defend the nation. With the men away at war, the women assume the duties left behind – joining the workforce and coining the phrase “Rosie the Riveter.” Overseas, the soldiers reflect on the nature of GI life and dream of Vargas calendar girls. Back in New York, a hostess from the Stage Door Canteen longs for the return of her new love, while he simply dreams of home.
A nation rejoices as the war ends and the soldiers return home. The young lovers reunite and dream of being a “Me & Mrs. You.” In celebration, the Stage Door Canteen once again comes alive to the sounds of Swing, Swing, Swing!
ONSTAGE MUSICIANS FOR SWING, SWING, SWING!:
THE DOYLEMUSIC COMBO
Performing onstage with the dancers in Swing, Swing, Swing!, the DoyleMusic Combo is a collection of some of the finest jazz musicians in the Omaha area. Its members have played with local groups including Luigi Inc., The Confidentials, Rave On, the Omaha Big Band, the Steve Raybine Band, and many more, as well as in the original 2010 production of Swing, Swing, Swing!
Band members are:
- Doyle Tipler: leader, trumpet
- Ken Janak: saxophone, clarinet
- Camille Metoyer Moten: vocals
- Jeff Scheffler: guitar
- Mark Haar: bass
- Carlos Figueroa: drums
This production has concluded.
The Nutcracker returns with the visual splendor and charming story that make it a family favorite. Set to one of composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s most famous works, it transports audiences to the enchanting Land of Snow and the opulent Kingdom of Sweets, featuring a uniquely breathtaking Waltz of the Flowers scene. The Nutcracker includes a cast of 130 professional and student dancers, and features lavish sets and more than 250 beautiful costumes.
~ “The performers, costumes and sets are just amazing!”
~ “Have any of you had such a special moment that it brought you to tears? It happened to me at this production.”.
This production has concluded.
Our award-winning mixed repertory program features an exciting mix of ballets that showcase the expressive range of dance. This season’s selections: Broadway legend Ann Reinking’s sizzling In the Style of Bob Fosse; renowned choreographer Frank Chaves’ sultry Habaneras, The Music of Cuba; and Artistic Director Erika Overturff’s lively Party Animals.
Momentum makes audiences say:
~ “This is a perfect show for those who love dance and those who think they don’t.”
~ “We can’t wait for the next show! I was so impressed!
