For ticketing support through AXS, contact denversupport@axs.com or call 1-888-929-7849.

Cleo Parker Robinson's "Firebird"

Unlike traditional versions of this magical ballet which are usually staged in Slavic settings, Cleo Parker Robinson’s lush and innovative interpretation is set in the Hawaiian Islands, with the Firebird being an incarnation of Pele, the Goddess of the Volcano. Historic figures from Hawaiian history – including King Kamehameha and Queen Lili’uokalani – appear as characters in the piece, along with many of the traditional gods and goddesses of Hawaiian culture.

Photo: Martha Wirth

An International Partnership

Cleo Parker Robinson and Thomas Talawa Prestø at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House | Photo: Martha Wirth

 

CPRD is also partnering with Thomas Talawa Prestø, Founder and Artistic Driector of  Tabanka, a Norwegian company focused on the African Diaspora. This one-of-a-kind collaboration will be a night of dance you won’t want to miss!

“We are thrilled to be joining forces with Tabanka Dance Ensemble for the Fall 2023 performance. Their distinctive perspective and creative excellence will undoubtedly enhance the depth and meaning of this production, leaving an indelible mark on our audiences.”

-Cleo Parker Robinson

The Tabanka Dance Ensemble | Oslo, Norway

In Norway’s serene backdrop lies the pulsating and unlikely seat of Tabanka Dance Ensemble, a beacon for African Diaspora Dance. Applying the ancient power of African and African Diaspora performance technologies Tabanka offers audiences an unparalleled fusion of tradition and modernity. Ancient Power-Modern use.

Beyond performance, Tabanka stands at the crossroads of artist development, community engagement, and education. Internationally, they’re esteemed as guardians of the Talawa Technique™, a rare codified form of African and Caribbean dance.

More than performers, Tabanka champions the voices of Black Nordic Personhood, creating platforms that spotlight and uplift this unique artistic legacy.

A World Premiere Work - "Catch A Fire"

Catch Ah Fire deals with resistance and affirming yourself. What we in the Caribbean call ‘mation’ to become smart is to become somebody, somebody of importance to yourself, to your community, and also just lighting that fire, or trying to catch the essence of that fire that we have as black people that allows us to stand, move, and groove in dignity… and Catch A Fire is that journey that we all embark on as we move from the indignity of being made objects into the journey of personhood and being soul.”

-Choreographer, Thomas Talawa Prestø

Founder and Artistic Director of Tabanaka Dance Ensemble, Oslo, Norway

The Ellie Caulkins Opera House

The Ellie Caulkins Opera House, known simply as “The Ellie,” is a world-class hall designed in the lyric style with acoustical excellence, state-of-the-art technical support, and clean sight lines (seating capacity: 2,200). With many renovations since its original opening in 1908, The Ellie invites top artists, performers and ensembles from around the world, and its lobby is adorned with public art pieces from artists like Dale Chihuly.

Ticket Pricing Options

General tickets range from $40-$125.

Elders/Senior tickets range from $20-$75.

Students with valid I.D. can access certain seats for $20 with code CleoStudent.

For ticketing support through AXS, contact denversupport@axs.com or call 1-888-929-7849

 

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