Dancing in the Park

To many, the thought of a ballet recital probably brings to mind tutus and the color pink, à la Swan Lake or The Nutcracker. But there’s much more to be found in contemporary ballet performances. George Balanchine’s Square Dance, for example, combines 17th-century court dance with good ol’ American country dance. Kansas Citians can expect both the modern and traditional this week, during the Kansas City Ballet’s Ballet in the Park series. The four-day series starts tonight at 6 in Loose Park’s Rose Garden (5200 Pennsylvania). “There will be no dying swan in the park,” publicist Ellen McDonald tells the Pitch. “It’s an ethnic, diverse and highly charged mix.” Performances happen through September 8 at other park locations in Leawood, Gladstone, Powell Gardens and the Crossroads. All recitals are free to the public. Blankets and picnicking are encouraged. For more information, see kcballet.org or call 816-931-2232. kcballet.org
Tue., Sept. 4, 6 p.m.