Martha Graham Dance Company
Dancing in the StreetsThursday Jul 30, 2026 5:30 pm
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Award-winning British Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon Returns to Vail
After nearly 15 years, ballet and Tony Award–winning Broadway choreographer Christopher Wheeldon returns to Vail this summer. Widely regarded as one of the leading choreographers of his generation, Wheeldon is celebrated for seamlessly blending classical ballet with theatrical storytelling, creating visually stunning productions that captivate audiences around the world.
Trained at the Royal Ballet School, Wheeldon danced with both The Royal Ballet and New York City Ballet, where he rose to the rank of soloist before devoting himself fully to choreography. His acclaimed body of work spans ballet, opera, and musical theatre, earning him international recognition and Tony Awards for An American in Paris and MJ: The Musical, both of which have gone on to enjoy successful productions globally.
Wheeldon’s last new work created in Vail was his 2012 commission Five Movements, Three Repeats. Prior to that, Wheeldon launched his groundbreaking company Morphoses/The Wheeldon Company as part of Artistic Director Damian Woetzel’s first season directing the Festival in 2007, which was followed by encore engagements the following years. The company went on to international acclaim as a “transatlantic” contemporary ballet ensemble based between Sadler’s Wells in London and New York City Center, featuring a rotating roster of star dancers from The Royal Ballet, American Ballet Theatre, and New York City Ballet performing in sleek, contemporary neo-classical repertory.
This summer, the celebrated dance maker returns with a new duet created for former New York City Ballet stars and Festival favorites Lauren Lovette and Robbie Fairchild. The work will receive its world premiere on Monday, August 3 at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater as part of the State of Grace mixed-bill program at 7:00 p.m., marking a highly anticipated return to Vail for one of dance’s most influential creative voices.
Take a look below a sneak peek rehearsal excerpt posted on Instagram by Lauren Lovette. Book your tickets today! You won’t want to miss this exciting return of artistic brilliance and beauty!