Merrimack Repertory Theatre is collaborating with the internationally known Angkor Dance Troupe to bring down the curtain on its current season with a world premiere, “A Khmer Swan Lake.”
The groundbreaking adaptation of Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” runs from April 8-26 at the Nancy L. Donahue Theatre at Liberty Hall in Lowell.
This new production fuses Western ballet with Cambodia’s Robam Kenore dance, presenting universal themes of love, betrayal and sacrifice through Cambodian performers for a fresh yet recognizable experience. Not just a performance, it is a cultural bridge, a familiar, and yet also entirely original production.
A Khmer Swan Lake” is celebration of Cambodian heritage and a daring reimagining of a story loved around the world.
Through the intricate gestures, precise footwork and breathtaking visual storytelling, audiences will experience the timeless tale of love, betrayal and redemption in a new way. The cast of 10 dancers auditioned from Lowell, New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Minnesota, Florida, California and Hawaii. Each earned their role through a competitive audition process and now gathers nightly at Angkor Dance Troupe’s Western Ave Studios in Lowell, committing themselves to the precision and discipline this work demands.
Bora Chiemruom, executive director of Angkor Dance Troupe, notes that the innovative production was two years in the making.
“We are proud to partner with Merrimack Repertory Theatre. ‘A Khmer Swan Lake’ brings principal classical dancers from across the Cambodian diaspora to Lowell in a powerful retelling that bridges cultures through dance and music. The production elevates and celebrates 40 years of Angkor Dance Troupe’s impact in Lowell and across the nation, exploring themes of love, belonging, betrayal and identity as a testament to our enduring legacy,” Chiemruom said.
Jenny Lavery, Merrimack Repertory Theatre’s interim executive director, said “MRT is honored to partner with Angkor Dance Troupe for this extraordinary reimagining of ‘Swan Lake.’ We couldn’t be more excited for audiences to experience the beauty of ‘A Khmer Swan Lake’ — a powerful retelling of a timeless story of identity, deception, and choosing love. This collaboration reflects the rich cultural and creative spirit of Lowell and reminds us how powerful it is when traditions and storytelling come together.”
For tickets and information, call 978-654-4678 or visit www.mrt.org.
IN THE WINGS HANOVER SEASON — Worcester’s Hanover Theater and Conservatory has announced its season of musicals and invites all to call the box office or email https://tinyurl.com/4wh47vsa.
“The best of Broadway will be here at the Hanover next year,” said Alan Seiffert, president & CEO of the Hanover board of directors. “We are fortunate to have seven shows in our 26/27 Broadway Series, including six Worcester premieres. The laughs won’t stop during ‘Spamalot’ and ‘Shucked,’ the melodies will soar in ‘The Bodyguard’ and ‘The Wiz;’ the wonder will astound at ‘Cirque Alice’ and ‘Water for Elephants,’ and ‘Mexodus’ will take us on a journey most of us never knew existed. The full season is spectacular, and I cannot wait to experience these shows with you.”
For info on dates and other shows in dance and at the conservatory, visit the website or box office.
Nancye Tuttle’s email address is [email protected].
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