This May, Ballet Arizona brings back one of its most breathtaking productions, Eroica, as part of An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden. Running from May 14 to May 31, this spellbinding performance merges the emotional complexity of Ludwig van Beethoven’s “Third Symphony” with the evocative choreography of Artistic Director Emeritus Ib Andersen. All performances begin at 8 p.m., offering a unique opportunity to witness dance in the natural world as twilight settles over the Sonoran Desert.
Originally premiered in 2018 and brought back the following year due to overwhelming demand, Eroica has earned acclaim as one of Artistic Director Emeritus Ib Andersen’s greatest works. Set within the striking and lush landscape of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, this captivating ballet revitalizes the human spirit and challenges conventional artistic expectations. Beethoven’s revolutionary Eroica symphony redefined the boundaries of classical music with its emotional depth and technical daring—qualities that echo through the bold choreography, all while paying homage to ballet’s timeless traditions.
“The beauty of Arizona’s desert comes to life within Ballet Arizona’s annual Evening at Desert Botanical Garden,” says Daniela Cardim, Ballet Arizona’s artistic director, in a press release. “Eroica invites audiences to experience a journey of emotional complexity and boundless possibility that will stir the soul.”
This cherished annual series draws sellout crowds with performances that take chances and evoke raw emotion under an open sky. Patrons are encouraged to purchase tickets early, as performances frequently sell out. Seating options include upgraded tables and stadium-style general admission, and the entire experience is designed to be immersive. Arrive early to see company dancers warming up on stage during golden hour and enjoy a curated menu of eats, cocktails, and wine available for purchase. Admission also includes access to Desert Botanical Garden, perfect for a scenic stroll before the show begins.
The Eroica series is made possible by support from F. Francis and Dionne Najafi of the Pivotal Foundation, Twiford Family Foundation, National Bank of Arizona, and Desert Botanical Garden. Tickets start at $60.
Beyond Eroica, Ballet Arizona’s season continues to dazzle with upcoming productions, taking place from spring to fall, all leading up to the iconic Nutcracker performance during the holiday season.
All Balanchine, running May 1 to May 4 at Symphony Hall, honors the Father of American Ballet with three dynamic works performed live by The Phoenix Symphony. The program features Walpurgisnacht, a celebratory piece inspired by the eve of May Day and set to Gounod’s Faust; Scotch Symphony, a Ballet Arizona premiere whisking audiences to the Scottish Highlands with Mendelssohn’s enchanting score; and Western Symphony, a playful homage to the American West.
Later in the year, The Sleeping Beauty returns to Symphony Hall from Oct. 23 to Oct. 27. Featuring Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by The Phoenix Symphony and choreography adapted by Cardim after Marius Petipa, this grand production promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Tickets for The Sleeping Beauty go on sale July 1.
This season offers something extraordinary for every ballet lover. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit balletaz.org.
Desert Botanical Garden
1201 N. Galvin Pkwy.
Phoenix, AZ 85008