Program Seven – The Essentials of Royalty at the Sarasota Opera House

Program Seven – Foundations of Royalty
May 1 – 2, 2026
Sarasota Opera House
Accompanied by the Sarasota Orchestra

Sir Frederick Ashton’s Birthday Offering opens the program with its exquisite choreography. Created in 1956 to celebrate The Royal Ballet’s 25th Anniversary, this performance presents seven couples through a series of variations set to Alexander Glazunov’s music, arranged by Robert Irving, culminating in a captivating ensemble waltz. Following this, Checkmate honors Dame Ninette de Valois, founder of The Royal Ballet, marking the 25th anniversary of her passing. This ballet brings a chess game to life, infusing pieces with human emotion. As the story unfolds, the formidable Black Queen pursues her aging opponent, the Red King, in a gripping power struggle. The program culminates with Wright’s Summertide, which celebrates the choreographer’s 100th birthday in November 2026. This one-act ballet, abstractly inspired by Felix Mendelssohn’s Piano Concerto No. 2, beautifully captures the essence of a radiant day, showcasing the brilliance of dance.

Repertoire will include:

Birthday Offering
Choreography by Sir Frederick Ashton
Music by Alexander Glazunov

Checkmate
Choreography by Dame Ninette de Valois
Music by Sir Arthur Bliss

Summertide
Choreography by Sir Peter Wright
Music by Felix Mendelssohn

Featuring Live Music by the Sarasota Orchestra

Key Information

• Event: Program Seven – Foundations of Royalty
• Date: May 1 – 2, 2026
• Venue: Sarasota Opera House
• Accompaniment: Sarasota Orchestra
• Featured Works:
  • Birthday Offering by Sir Frederick Ashton
  • Checkmate by Dame Ninette de Valois
  • Summertide by Sir Peter Wright