The Game is On [REVIEW]

PerformanceGrand Rapids Ballet: “Diablo Rojo” by James Sofranko, “While Away“ by Jennifer Archibald, “Sherlock” by Penny Saunders PlacePeter Martin Wege Theatre, Grand Rapids, Michigan, October 24, 2025 WordsSteve Sucato for Fjord Review Move over, Matthew Bourne, there is a new voice in theatrical dance plays. Choreographer Penny Saunders’ bespoke production of “Sherlock,” performed by Grand Rapids Ballet, was not only a triumph in bringing literature’s favorite … Continue reading The Game is On [REVIEW]

Grand Rapids’ Romeo & Juliet: James Sofranko’s first full-length story ballet [REVIEW]

By Steve Sucato for Dance International Magazine The crown jewel in Grand Rapids Ballet’s 50th anniversary season, artistic director James Sofranko’s Romeo and Juliet, was decidedly a traditional classical ballet take on Shakespeare’s famous tale. The three-act production plus epilogue, the first full-length story ballet the former San Francisco Ballet soloist has choreographed, premiered on February 17 at home in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in the DeVos Performance Hall.  … Continue reading Grand Rapids’ Romeo & Juliet: James Sofranko’s first full-length story ballet [REVIEW]

Grand Rapids Ballet’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Continues with Stowell’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Balanchine’s “Serenade”

By Steve Sucato and Jessica MeldrumMichigan’s lone professional ballet company, continues its 50th Anniversary Celebration with Christopher Stowell’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, April 22-24 and April 29-May 1 at the Peter Martin Wege Theatre as well as online, May 3 as part of GRB’s 2021-2022 virtual season offerings. The production also features George Balanchine’s timeless masterwork, Serenade. “A Midsummer Night’s Dream is one of William Shakespeare’s most … Continue reading Grand Rapids Ballet’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Continues with Stowell’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and Balanchine’s “Serenade”