Pickle perfection: Five conservatories combine experience for a briny ballet extravaganza
In a bold and briny move, UNCSA is thrilled to unveil its latest theatrical sensation: “Pickle Pas de Deux.” This innovative production promises to be a pickle-packed extravaganza, blending the artistry of ballet with the tangy twist of everyone's favorite fermented cucumbers.
Set to grace the stage in a collaborative effort between the Schools of Dance, Music, Design and Production, Drama, and Filmmaking, “Pickle Pas de Deux” is poised to be a symphony of flavors and talents like never before seen.
"We are absolutely thrilled to present ‘Pickle Pas de Deux’ to our audience," says Chancellor Brian Cole. "This production is a testament to the collaborative spirit and innovative thinking that defines UNCSA. It will push the boundaries of live entertainment, utilizing the cutting edge of pickle technology that is being deployed in the industry today. We're diving into uncharted waters with this one, and we couldn't be more excited."
This production is a testament to the collaborative spirit and innovative thinking that defines UNCSA. It will push the boundaries of live entertainment, utilizing the cutting edge of pickle technology that is being deployed in the industry today.
Chancellor Brian Cole
The production will feature a fusion of classical ballet and pickle-themed choreography, with dancers pirouetting and plié-ing their way through a whimsical narrative set in a mystical land of gherkins and dills. Accompanying the dancers will be a symphonic orchestra, composed of students from Music, who will serenade audiences with compositions inspired by the crunchy allure of pickles.
"We're infusing every aspect of this production with pickle perfection," explains Dean of Music Saxton Rose. "From the toe-tapping overtures to the exhilaration from cucumber-inspired crescendos, our musicians are embracing the pickle ethos with gusto."
But the pickle parade doesn't stop there — D&P is hard at work crafting elaborate sets that will transport audiences to a pickle paradise, while Drama students are lending their talents to bring the characters to life. Meanwhile, Filmmaking students are capturing behind-the-scenes magic, ensuring that every pickle-packed moment is preserved.
"We're pulling out all the stops for ‘Pickle Pas de Deux’," says Dean Michael Kelley. "Audiences can expect a visual feast unlike anything they've ever seen before. Our sets will be a pickle lover's dream come true!"
When speaking on the impact this production will have on the Winston-Salem community, Kelley sums it up by saying, "it's going to be a big dill."
"Pickle Pas De Deux" is inspired by the Fighting Pickle, beloved mascot of UNCSA who unveiled this new look in 2023. / Photo: Allison Lee Isley
Audience members will be transported into a world where pickles reign supreme as they follow the story of Dill and Cuke, two young pickles yearning for a life outside the jar. The ballet follows their journey from the crunchy forests of the Gherkin Grove to the sparkling shores of the Briny Sea, an adventure full of excitement, humor and heartwarming moments.
Alongside breathtaking ballet performances, accompanied by a symphony of pickle-inspired music, the duo discovers the true power of friendship, bravery and the magic of the Pickle Pas de Deux.
As they dance their way to victory, Dill and Cuke learn that sometimes, the sweetest moments in life come from the most unexpected places — even from a jar of pickles.
Get the best news, performance and alumni stories from UNCSA.
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTERS(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)(OPENS IN NEW TAB)
April 1, 2024 (April Fool's Day)