“Labor of Love” A Ballet

It was my second semester at Jacobs

When my RA, Jadyn Dahlberg, asked me if I would be interested in writing a short ballet for her upcoming choreography class. Naturally, I jumped at the chance for such a unique and challenging composition. Jadyn explained to me how collaborations between the Composition Department and the Ballet Department were often overlooked and how exciting a new ballet would be. After a few sketches and meetings, I began writing. The ballet “Labor of Love” was finished in mid-March 2019 and premiered shortly thereafter. It was amazing to see the music that I had written being brought to life by six extremely talented dancers. Overall, the experience was spectacular and I hope to write another one in the future.

“This short piece is about the unspoken responsibility that comes with loving another. When someone you love is weak or fragile it is your role to lift them up again. You must carry some of the burden of those you care deeply about, knowing they would do the same for you. Loving is labor that ultimately feels effortless.”

To watch “Labor of Love,” click the image above.

Performers:

Chris Santos, Cello

Ada Cigeroglu, Piano

Andrew Playford and Ginabel Peterson Colin Canavan and Gabby Harris Cecilia Zanone and Reece Conrad

Choreography by Jadyn Dahlberg