Montréal, Canada – Les Grands Ballets Canadiens are preparing to unveil a groundbreaking new production of Alice in Wonderland, choreographed by the company’s own First Soloist, André Santos. This marks Santos’s debut as a choreographer with the esteemed ballet company, promising a fresh and neoclassical interpretation of Lewis Carroll’s beloved tale. The production, set to premiere June 3 to 6, 2027, at Place des Arts’ Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier, is already generating significant anticipation within the dance world.
Santos, a Brazilian-born dancer who joined Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in 2017, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. His journey began with training at Pavilhao D in São Paulo from 2003 to 2007, followed by studies at the New Zealand School of Dance in Wellington from 2008 to 2009. His career trajectory includes seven years with the West Australian Ballet, where he rose through the ranks from artist to Demi-Soloist in 2014 and then to Soloist in 2015, before ultimately joining Les Grands Ballets. He was promoted to First Soloist in 2023.
A Neoclassical Wonderland
This production of Alice in Wonderland isn’t simply a retelling of the classic story; it’s a reimagining. Santos delves into both Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, weaving a narrative that is both sensitive and visually striking. The choreography, described as boldly neoclassical, aims to capture the essence of Carroll’s imaginative world, focusing on Alice’s journey of self-discovery and metamorphosis. The production promises to be a dynamic exploration of a story familiar to generations.
The creative team has assembled a compelling artistic vision. Montrealer Airat Ichmouratov has composed an original symphonic score specifically for this production, adding a unique musical dimension to the ballet. The score is expected to enhance the dreamlike and disorienting atmosphere of Wonderland, mirroring Alice’s shifting perceptions. The combination of Santos’s choreography and Ichmouratov’s music is poised to create a truly immersive experience for audiences.
Iconic Characters and a Three-Dimensional World
Fans of the original story can expect to see many of the iconic characters brought to life on stage. From the frantic White Rabbit to the eccentric Mad Hatter, and the formidable Queen of Hearts to the mischievous Tweedledee and Tweedledum, the ballet will feature a cast of memorable figures. However, Santos’s interpretation moves beyond simple character portrayals. Alice herself is presented not as a passive observer, but as an active participant in her own journey, navigating a three-dimensional universe where logic is constantly challenged.
The production’s design is also expected to play a crucial role in creating the world of Wonderland. Details regarding set design and costumes have not yet been released, but the promise of a visually stunning production suggests a commitment to creating a truly immersive environment. The goal is to transport audiences into a realm where the surreal meets poetry, and where the boundaries of reality are blurred.
André Santos: From Dancer to Choreographer
The transition from dancer to choreographer is a significant one, and Santos’s appointment reflects the confidence Les Grands Ballets Canadiens has in his artistic vision. His extensive performance experience, encompassing a diverse repertoire of roles, has undoubtedly informed his approach to choreography. Throughout his career, Santos has performed in numerous productions, including leading roles in works by choreographers such as Uwe Scholz, Ivan Cavallari, and John Cranko. His repertoire includes performances in Don Quixote, The Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Romeo & Juliet, demonstrating his versatility as a dancer.
Santos’s previous experience with Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, since joining in 2017, has provided him with a deep understanding of the company’s artistic style and its audience. This familiarity will be invaluable as he brings his own unique vision to the stage. The company’s support for new works, as evidenced by their Adaptive Arts Support for New Works Program, underscores their commitment to fostering creativity and innovation within the ballet world.
The Legacy of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens
Les Grands Ballets Canadiens, founded in 1957, has a long and distinguished history of presenting world-class ballet performances. The company is renowned for its commitment to both classical and contemporary works, and for its dedication to nurturing Canadian talent. The upcoming production of Alice in Wonderland is part of this ongoing tradition, showcasing the company’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and engaging audiences with innovative and thought-provoking performances.
The choice of Alice in Wonderland as Santos’s first major choreographic work is particularly fitting. The story’s themes of transformation, identity, and the search for meaning resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. Santos’s neoclassical approach promises to bring a fresh perspective to this timeless tale, offering a new interpretation that will captivate both seasoned ballet enthusiasts and newcomers to the art form.
As the premiere date approaches, anticipation continues to build for this exciting new production. The combination of Santos’s choreographic talent, Ichmouratov’s original score, and the artistic excellence of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens promises a truly unforgettable theatrical experience. The production is scheduled to run from June 3 to 6, 2027, at the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier in Place des Arts, Montréal.
The next key date for those interested in attending is the on-sale date for tickets, which has not yet been announced. Keep an eye on the Place des Arts website for updates and ticketing information. The production represents a significant moment in Santos’s career and a promising addition to the repertoire of Les Grands Ballets Canadiens.
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