NEW ORLEANS (press release) – The New Orleans Ballet Association (NOBA) presents the return of the nation’s premier Latino dance company, Ballet Hispánico, on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the Mahalia Jackson Theater. Led by Cuban-American director Eduardo Vilaro and with its bold style of fusing classical, Latin and contemporary dance, Ballet Hispánico has become an “ambassador of not just Latino culture but of dance itself” (Broadway World). This gorgeous company of “the most technically accomplished and musical dancers you’ll find in the contemporary sphere” (The Washington Post) brings the premiere of CARMEN.maquia, a Picasso-inspired contemporary take on Bizet’s beloved classic by choreographer Gustavo Ramírez Sansano and is part of an international celebration of the 150th anniversary of the opera Carmen. The physically charged choreography fuses contemporary dance with nods to the Spanish paso doble and flamenco. “Emotionally fierce, intensely sensual, brilliantly danced and stunningly designed…riveting from start to finish.” (Chicago Sun-Times) “Ballet Hispánico shows what it is to be Latino in the modern world.” (Financial Times)
CARMEN.maquia is more than just a reimagining of Bizet’s iconic opera—it is a celebration of the depth and diversity of Latinx culture, brought to life through a captivating blend of movement, music, and visual art. Sansano, known for his ability to intertwine classical traditions with modern innovation, draws inspiration from Picasso’s bold, fragmented style, creating a work that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant.
The production features an extraordinary ensemble of dancers, whose athleticism and emotional depth convey the raw intensity of the narrative. With an original score that reinterprets Bizet’s familiar melodies, CARMEN.maquia transforms the well-known story of love, jealousy, and tragedy into a powerful, contemporary statement. Through this work, Ballet Hispánico invites audiences to experience the timeless themes of Carmen in a new light, while affirming the company’s commitment to presenting groundbreaking works that explore the richness of Latinx identity and artistic expression.
Tickets start at $29, with $10 discounts for students and seniors, and can be purchased by calling 504-522-0996 or www.nobadance.com.
