Imperial Ball

Belgian choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui, known for his brilliant, always (cosmo-)political dance pieces, in which his Moroccan background also plays a role, is fascinated by the social significance of Johann Strauss’ dance compositions. Their original historical setting was initially the (Viennese) ballroom; however, these waltzes, mazurkas, and polkas, which seem timeless today, quickly became a crucial reference for ballroom dancing and the sign of an entire era. In his very special contribution to Johann Strauss 2025 Wien, Cherkaoui explores the urge of a society to control its citizens through the quasi-aristocratic codes of behavior we find at balls and social gatherings of the elite: How do we get each other to behave in ways we deem acceptable – or not? The idea of a ball as a place of connection, where different rules apply, can be at once restrictive and liberating. So, is dancing – when it is celebrated socially – still freedom?

Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui’s choreography features the ensemble of the Ballet du Grand Théâtre de Genève, accompanied live by the Vienna Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Constantin Trinks.

A production by the Grand Théâtre de Genève, Johann Strauss 2025 Vienna, and Eastman Dance Company in cooperation with ImPulsTanz and Tanzquartier Wien.