Free World-Class Ballet Comes to Middletown Sunday

Classic Russian ballet, a Fosse Broadway jazz revue and a brand new work set to the music of contemporary American classical composer Philip Glass are just some of the high-caliber dance numbers in a free ballet presentation by the state's premier professional troupe, Connecticut Ballet, this weekend.

The second annual performance takes place Sunday at 5 p.m. at , 100 Training Hill Road, Middletown, in Chapman Hall.

The state's professional ballet company is celebrating its 31st season with a Summer Dance Caravan taking it to Summerwind Festival in Windsor, Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts in Westport, Middlesex Community College, Ives Concert Park in Danbury, and Untermyer Performing Arts Festival in Yonkers, N.Y.

Sunday will feature a mixed bill of family-friendly dance, including selections from Swan Lake and a medley of Bob Fosse's greatest choreography for the Broadway stage.

Artistic Director Brett Raphael will be represented by his new creation, Babble, set to the music of Philip Glass. The crowd-pleasing Goose Pimples accompanied by Bix Beiderbecke's rollicking New Orleans rhythms will close the evening.

Suitable for all ages, the performance is free and grounds are open for picnicking and walking throughout the afternoon. Several local food vendors will offer delectable food options or a snacks onsite.

For information, call 860-293-1039 or visit www.connecticutballet.com.

The Middletown Commission on the Arts is a generous supporter of Connecticut Ballet.