Pink Floyd’s The Wall: A Rock Ballet marries the music of the rock world with a dance form from the classical world, has become a fan favorite as it has been called for an encore many times.
Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota’s production, which returns to the Fitzgerald Theater next spring, breaks all the rules regarding traditional ballet. It goes beyond white tutus and synchronized movements and delves into avant-garde and grunge. This dance version was written and interpreted by TCB artistic director Denise Vogt and associate artistic director Rick Vogt. It’s based on the original storyline of Pink Floyd’s famous rock opera The Wall.
The production analyzes the trials and tribulations of life while incorporating basic training and ballet techniques, Rick Vogt says. The movements express “anguish, isolation, and temper tantrum.”
The first act brings to life "Goodbye Cruel World," which shows the process of the main character, a rock star named Pink, building the wall as he deals with the pain of the death of his father in World War II, the domineering presence of his overprotective mother and memories of his horrible school days.
“The wall is a metaphor for a barrier he’s built over time to protect himself from pain,” Vogt says.
In the second act, the audience enters Pink’s head as he spirals into insanity and realizes the wall he’s built. How does he fix this barrier he’s put up between himself and the world? The show is meant to bring the voices of music to life through ballet and be a relatable experience for everyone. In keeping with the traditions of the ballet world, the music will be performed live, too — not just a recording of Pink Floyd’s bestselling album. The Pink Floyd tribute band Momentary Lapse of Floyd will be onstage with the dancers.
”It brings the story to life as people have never seen it before,” Vogt says.
Pink Floyd’s The Wall: A Rock Ballet will be presented by Twin Cities Ballet of Minnesota March 15-17, 2024.
Love the music?
Show your support by making a gift to YourClassical.
Each day, we’re here for you with thoughtful streams that set the tone for your day – not to mention the stories and programs that inspire you to new discovery and help you explore the music you love.
YourClassical is available for free, because we are listener-supported public media. Take a moment to make your gift today.
