Photo Flash: First Look at the Atlantic City Ballet's Production of CARMEN

The Atlantic City Ballet sets the stage for this classic tale of seduction, passion, betrayal and murder with the Atlantic City premier of their sexy, ballet Carmen. Featuring the original, breathtaking choreography of Artistic Director, Phyllis Papa, backdrop design by Broadway scenic artist David Esler and an enthralling score by Georges Bizet, Carmen tells the story of a beautiful seductress, the two lovers who vie for her affection and the tragic outcome of their tangled affair. Ms. Papa's imaginative staging creates a world where gypsies, smugglers and toreadors pack all the sizzle of Spanish culture into an irresistible theatrical event.

The tragic love story at the heart of Carmen has inspired its fair share of ballets from companies all across the world. Most of these interpretations, however, are much shorter in length and don't reflect the full story. "The one thing I wanted to do, was a full length Carmen," says Ms. Papa. "I wanted to make sure we told the entire story and not just what everyone is familiar with." Bizet's score is so beautiful it's meant to be heard in its entirety." As an added bonus, patrons who purchase a ticket to April 18th's performance will also get free admission into a pre-show reception. The reception will be held at The Twenties Restaurant at The Claridge with a cash bar, hors d'oeuvres and entertainment. "We're kicking off our AC Ballet's Members Club." stated Ms. Papa. "It's a way for our fans to be involved. Once they become a member, they'll get all kinds of benefits including discounts on tickets, merchandise and more." Doors to the reception will open at 4:30pm.

Founded in 1982, by International Ballerina, Phyllis Papa, the Atlantic City Ballet is comprised of professional dancers from around the world and have earned national acclaim for their technical expertise and exuberant stage presence. Although their home base is in Historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, the Ballet has performed in theaters all along the east coast. Their repertoire of original works includes such classics as A Midsummer Night's Dream, Sleeping Beauty and Swan Lake but, Ms. Papa is most known for her innovative works such as Dracula, Caught Up In The Swing and her full length Carmen. Since its inception, the Atlantic City Ballet has served as one of the cultural treasures of New Jersey and continues a tradition of dance excellence for future generations of ballet audiences.

The Atlantic City Ballet will be performing Carmen at the following venues:

SATURDAY April 18th-7:00pm
SATURDAY April 27th -4:00pm
Celebrity Theater-Claridge Hotel-Atlantic City, NJ
Tickets: $40 & $50-Adults $20-Children & Students
15% senior discount and group discount also available.
Tickets may be purchased by calling the Celebrity Theater Box Office at 609-348-0031 or going to www.acballet.org
SATURDAY April 25th-7:00pm
The Strand Theater-Lakewood, NJ
Tickets: $35-Adult Orch/Loge $25-Adult Mezz/Tier
$20-Senior-All seats $15-Student/Child-All seats
Group discount available
Tickets may be purchased by calling the Strand Box Office at 732-730-5925 or going to www.strand.org

For information, call: 609-348-7201 or visit www.acballet.org

Photo Credit: Craig Billow