Ballet meets jazz age in 'The Great Gatsby' at CoMMA

Literature and dance will take center stage on Tuesday April 29, when the World Ballet Company presents “The Great Gatsby” ballet at the City of Morganton Municipal Auditorium (CoMMA).

Step into the jazzy world of the Roaring Twenties and see the glitz, glamour, and tragic romance of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s timeless novel come to life on stage. Featuring a multinational cast of 40 professional ballet dancers, an all-star creative team, lustrous hand-crafted costumes, and lavish groundbreaking sets, the production evokes the energy and atmosphere of the 1920s.

Renowned choreographer IIya Zhivoy captures the passion of the central love story with a sensual, dynamic style, and celebrated LA-based film and TV composer Anna Drubich makes her ballet debut with a rich, lively score that embraces the sounds of the Jazz Age.

Based in Los Angeles, and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, the World Ballet Company presents beloved and iconic shows in cities nationwide. Driven by the belief that ballet is for everyone, the organization sees that performances appeal to newcomers and seasoned ballet-goers alike. The company attracts many international artists and is composed of renowned professional dancers representing more than ten countries.

To date, the World Ballet Company has traveled to more than 300 cities, reaching an audience of more than 450,000, many of whom are first-time ballet attendees.

The show, which lasts two hours, including a 20-minute intermission, is recommended for audiences ages 8 and older. Tickets are available at commaonline.org.