Роял Виннипег Балет открывает закулисье подготовки к сезону 2026–27 для публики

For three days this August, Winnipeg audiences will have the rare opportunity to see what happens before the curtain rises. The Royal Winnipeg Ballet is opening its creative process to the public with RWB Revealed, a free behind-the-scenes experience taking place August 19 to 21 at True North Square. Envisioned by Artistic Director Christopher Stowell, the new initiative will transform the True North Square concourse into a working ballet studio, giving audiences an unprecedented look at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet as its dancers train, rehearse and prepare for the company’s 2026–27 season. Rather than simply watching a finished production from the audience, visitors can see professional dancers at work throughout the day, offering a glimpse into the discipline, creativity and collaboration that goes into creating a ballet. A New Firebird Takes Shape One of the highlights of RWB Revealed will be an exclusive look at the creation of a new Firebird. Acclaimed New York City-based choreographer Houston Thomas is working with Stowell and the company on a reimagined version of the classic work, which will premiere on the Royal Winnipeg Ballet mainstage this fall. Visitors will be able to watch the creative process unfold as Thomas, Stowell and the dancers work on Firebird, alongside rehearsals of other works from the company’s repertoire. It is an unusual opportunity to see choreography develop in real time and to witness the interaction between choreographer, artistic leadership and dancers before a production reaches the stage. From Company Class to Rehearsal Each morning begins with Company class from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Artistic Director Christopher Stowell and Associate Artistic Director Tara Birtwhistle will provide live commentary, offering audiences insight into the training and technique required of professional ballet dancers. The class will be followed by a daily welcome and introduction, featuring interviews, artist conversations and opportunities for audience questions. From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the focus shifts to Company rehearsals, with dancers continuing their work again from 3 to 6 p.m. Audiences are welcome to drop in for an hour or stay throughout the day, making RWB Revealed an accessible way to experience the company’s work at different stages of development. The afternoon schedule will also feature guest artists and community performances. Salsa Explosion Dance Company appears August 19, Young Lungs Dance Exchange takes the stage August 20, and Magdaragat Philippines performs August 21. Emerging Artists Take the Stage Each day of RWB Revealed will conclude with a free performance from emerging artists in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet School’s Anna McCowan-Johnson Aspirant Program. The evening performances, running from 6 to 7 p.m., will include Opus 15: The Maze by Pathways to Performance partner Melvin Lawovi. For audiences, the performances provide another dimension to the three-day event, highlighting the next generation of dancers while demonstrating the connection between the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and its internationally recognized training programs. A Rare Look Behind the Curtain RWB Revealed is designed for both longtime ballet enthusiasts and people who may be encountering the art form for the first time. The event provides an opportunity to see not only the finished product, but the work that makes that product possible: the daily training, repeated rehearsals, creative discussions and artistic experimentation that take place before dancers step onto a mainstage. Visitors will also get an exclusive first look at the Royal Winnipeg Ballet’s new brand, along with opportunities to explore merchandise, giveaways and contests. With more than 85 years of history, the Royal Winnipeg Ballet has become one of Winnipeg’s most prominent cultural institutions, known for its technical excellence, versatility and commitment to artistic quality. Under Stowell’s artistic leadership, the company continues to build on its classical foundation while embracing new works and perspectives. RWB Revealed runs August 19 to 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at True North Square. Admission is free. Whether you stay for an hour or spend the entire day, it offers a unique chance to experience the Royal Winnipeg Ballet not simply as a finished performance, but as a living creative process.