Summer 2026 Performance

"AMERICANA" with excerpts from "La Sylphide"

The Ballet Theatre of Dover pays tribute  to the stubborn individualism, tenacity of spirit, resilience, and its people's commitment to freedom and the ability to com together in common purpose, that defines AMERICA.

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AMERICANA celebrates the heritage and history of America through a suite of dances with music by American composers who have left an  indelible print in American culture.  From traditional tunes, including the Quacker melody "Simple Gifts" and spirituals, "Walk Toge4ther Children", and music of John Philip Sousa.  Jay Unger's music "Ashokan Farewell" is a haunting melody that captures the sense of loss, grief and tragedy of a war that tested America's sense of freedom and spirit.  The Harlem Renaissance, a flourishing of African American culture is captured by "Sweet Georgia Brown".  "Fifty Nifty" helped many a student remember the list of our 50 States! America is a rich fusion of many cultures that enrich and define this nation's identity. The rousing finale will feature music by John Philip Sousa's "Stars and Stripes" and be led by Cory Ogdahl, from the Philadelphia Ballet, partnering with local dancer, Lauren Miles.

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Dances from LA SYLPHIDE are set in Scotland.  It is the story of a magical sprite, "the sylph" who falls in love with a mortal who is betrothed to be married.  It is full of joyous, boyant ju8mps and light, quick footwork.  The ballet was choreographed at the height of the Romantic Age in the mid 1800's by Auguste Burnsville.  Cory Ogdahl dances the role of James, with Hailey Seale as the Sylph, and Piper Moore as Effy, the girl already betrothed to James.