Jewels by Balanchine.

8-19 Sept 2006. The Dutch National Ballet presents one of Russian-American choreographer George Balanchines masterpieces, Jewels (1967). A visit to New York jewellers Van Cleef & Arpels on Fifth Avenue inspired Balanchine to create a three-piece jewel ballet representing three of the most exclusive gems: diamonds, rubies and emeralds. Each ballet portrays a different world and dance tradition: the elegance and prosperity of France in Emeralds set to music by Faur; the dynamic, flashy energy of America in Rubies set to music by Stravinsky; and the nobility and magnificence of the Russian Tsarist court in Diamonds set to music by Tchaikovsky. For the Dutch premiere, a new set has been designed by Toer van Schayk, and the jewel costumes are being recreated following Barbara Karinskas original designs for the New York City Ballet production of 1967. Boris Gruzin, the Kirov Ballet conductor, directs the Holland Symfonia. Admission 34.25-16.75. Performances at 20.15 on 8, 9, 12, 13, 15, 18 & 19 Sept. Matinee at 14.00 on 17 Sept.