Attending A Performance | Ballet Memphis (2024)

FAQs

How long is the average ballet performance? ›

Lasting about an hour and a half to two hours, mixed rep (repertory) performances involve three or four shorter ballets, usually 10-25 minutes in length each. These ballets can all be from one choreographer, showcasing his or her works, or may be from different choreographers but all surrounding a singular theme.

Ballet Memphis was founded in 1986 with the mission to create a ballet company that is reflective of our community and the nation by creating, presenting and teaching ballet in a way that celebrates the human spirit.

As important as it is to be in rehearsal and to make sure your dances are stage ready, taking care of yourself and your body should be just as much of a priority. Resting your muscles, getting enough sleep, and allowing muscle memory to carry you through until showtime is the perfect pre performance trifecta.

The technically and artistically demanding double role of Odette (White Swan) and Odile (Black Swan) is perhaps the most difficult in all of ballet. It's a potentially heartbreaking portrait of two complex and very different women: one trapped in a swan's body by a cruel spell, the other a villain scheming against her.

At what age do most dancers retire? Most dancers stop dancing between 35 and 40 years old. Sometimes a dancer may have a specific injury that has forced them to stop dancing and sometimes their bodies are just tired from all the physical strength that is required for ballet.

Is there a dress code? Dancers are in costume, but you don't have to be. You will see people in gowns and others in jeans. Wear what you like and what makes you comfortable.

It's partly a superstition and partly a tradition. You're supposed to say “break a leg” to an actor, “bump a nose” to a circus performer, “merde” -- the vulgar French word for, let's just say, manure -- to a dancer, and either “toi toi toi” or “in bocca al lupo” to an opera singer.

Your body has to rest. For me, that's nine hours of sleep. I am a 150 percent dancer and always have 12-hour days of exercising, so sleep is my best friend.” “I make sure to do my post-performance exercises, drink lots of water, and get plenty of rest in order for my body and mind to recover.”

How long should a dance performance last? A recital dance performance usually lasts about 2 to 5 minutes. However, the entire recital can last from one to three hours, depending on the number of performances and the 15-20 min intermissions.

How long are ballet performances? Ballet performances vary in duration. We suggest you plan for 2 hours and 15 to 30 minutes (including an intermission).

How long is a live performance of The Nutcracker ballet? ›

The duration of a performance of "The Nutcracker" can vary depending on the production and the specific choices made by the company staging it. Generally, a full-length production of "The Nutcracker" typically lasts between 1.5 to 2.5 hours, not including intermissions.

How long is the performance? Performances are typically around 2 hours.