What is "contemporary ballet"? In contemporary ballet, the choreography is built on the foundations of classical ballet, utilizing classical technique and positions. However, contemporary ballet movement is generally not as “structured” as classical ballet. The dancers play with the extremes of the movements, morphing them into something more stretched and more “off balance.” Our choreographers find inspiration for their works in other styles of dance and movement textures. When that inspiration is fused with the artistry and athleticism of ballet, the new creations feel very fresh and relevant in our modern world.
Do I need to know anything about ballet to attend a performance? Not at all! Our performances simply celebrate the unique beauty of dance and the capabilities of our dancers. All you have to do is come in and enjoy the magic of live theater!
Will I “get it”? If you are attending for the first time, you might be worried you won’t understand what is happening on the stage. Often, contemporary dance works are abstract, and there’s not always a clear story being told. For these more conceptual works, your view of the piece does not have to exactly match the view of the choreographer. The open-ended feel is intentional, so that you might experience something that is unique and very personal to you. What you take away from the piece can be totally different than the person sitting next to you, and that’s the beauty of art!
What should I wear? There is no specific dress code for our performances. Some people come to a show directly after work in business attire and some prefer to come dressed more casually. Others like to use the show as an excuse to get dressed up and have a fancy night out! Come enjoy the show in whatever attire you are comfortable.
How early should I arrive? Most people arrive about 30 minutes prior to the start of the show. This gives you time to park, check in at the box office, and enjoy a refreshment from the bar. The theater lobby opens one hour before the performance, so you are always welcome to come in earlier to mingle with friends before the show!
How do I buy tickets? Tickets are available for purchase online HERE and at the door on the day of the performance. If you have any issues purchasing tickets online, please email info@textureballet.org or call 412-552-3114.
Do you offer any special rates or group sales? We currently offer special rates for seniors, students, and artists. Click HERE to find out more!
Group sales are also available for groups of 10 or more. For more information, contact Marjorie Liese at marjorie@textureballet.org.
Where can I park? On street parking is available for both the New Hazlett Theater and Carnegie Stage. Be sure to check the meters and signs for area specific enforcements. The New Hazlett Theater also has a parking available in the Allegheny Health Network garage (cash only) for evening events and weekend matinees. Click HERE for more info.
Is the theater accessible? The New Hazlett Theater and Carnegie Stage are committed to making all of their theater events as inclusive as possible and are fully wheelchair accessible. For additional accessibility information: - New Hazlett Theater, click HERE. - Carnegie Stage, click HERE.
How can I support Texture? We’re glad you asked! Because arts funding is limited in the United States, arts organizations greatly rely on financial contributions from the people in their communities! We could not do what we do without people like you who value our work and make the choice to support it! If you are interested in making a donation, please click HERE.
If you are unable to make a financial contribution at this time, we hope you will check out these other simple ways you can support all of us at Texture! Click HERE.
