Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon, a new ballet by award-winning choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, will make its U.S. premiere at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Feb. 9-17.
The Atlanta Ballet, under the artistic direction of Gennadi Nedvigin will perform Ochoa’s 10th original ballet, which explores the complex life of the notable 20th century French fashion designer.
Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon is the story of the powerful Gabrielle Bonheur “Coco” Chanel, who launched a global fashion empire and was credited in the post-World War I era with popularizing a sporty, casual chic as the feminine standard of style.
Chanel is famous for redefining the world of fashion; and more than a century later, her legacy continues through her brilliant designs, shrewd business acumen and glamorous lifestyle.
Ochoa’s ballet chronicles Chanel’s almost mythical rags-to-riches and often controversial story, depicting modern narrative scenes in abstract and concise movements.
“I am interested in telling stories about strong historical women,” said Ochoa, who has also produced works about Eva Perón and Frida Kahlo. “Behind the surface of a strong woman, there is always a hidden emotional story full of hardships and flaws.”
The Atlanta Ballet orchestra will perform the original score by Peter Salem live at the North American premiere.
For more information, visit atlantaballet.com.
Photo: Hong Kong Ballet dancer Ye Feifei in Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon. Photo by SWKit, courtesy of Hong Kong Ballet.
