Dr. Theresa A. Cunningham Assistant Curator of European Art and the Mellon Collections | Virginia Museum of Fine Art
Dr. Theresa A. Cunningham Assistant Curator of European Art and the Mellon Collections | Virginia Museum of Fine Art
Richmond Ballet is set to return to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) in March 2025, marking its first performance at the venue since the 1990s. The ballet company will present its repertory series, now called Moving Art, at the newly renovated Leslie Cheek Theater starting March 20.
“The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts welcomes the return of Richmond Ballet to the newly enhanced Cheek Theater,” stated VMFA Director and CEO Alex Nyerges. He added that this collaboration offers "exciting opportunities for our audiences and artists."
The ballet's Founding Artistic Director Stoner Winslett expressed enthusiasm about performing again at VMFA: “It is truly such an honor to once again perform within the walls of VMFA.” She highlighted that returning to the Leslie Cheek Theater has been a long-held dream, made possible by recent renovations.
Moving Art will feature both contemporary and classical ballet in an intimate setting. The initial program, Moving Art One, running from March 20-30, includes three ballets: Pentaptych by Ma Cong with music by Ryan Lott; Christopher Wheeldon’s After the Rain; and Val Caniparoli’s Lambarena.
Moving Art Two will follow from May 8-18, showcasing works like Joshua L. Peugh’s Slump and Stoner Winslett’s Echoing Past. Yury Yanowsky will complete Fading Creatures for its world premiere during this series.
Ma Cong noted that “The Moving Art series will allow Richmond audiences to witness the full breadth of our artform.”
Tickets are available through Richmond Ballet's website or by phone. In addition to performances, VMFA partners with Richmond Ballet on Minds In Motion, a community engagement program integrating dance into school curriculums.
VMFA recently completed a $5.3 million renovation of Leslie Cheek Theater funded privately. This marks its first major update since it was built in 1954. Improvements include expanded stage space and upgraded technical equipment aimed at enhancing performances.
Nyerges commented on these updates: “Beginning in March 2024, the Cheek Theater underwent a $5.3 million renovation... This marks the first time our theater has been renovated since it was built 70 years ago.”
For more information about upcoming events or details about Richmond Ballet and VMFA's offerings, visit their respective websites.
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