When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
American Contemporary Ballet
Why American Contemporary Ballet is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
American Contemporary Ballet (ACB), based in Los Angeles and founded by choreographer Lincoln Jones, offers a unique and captivating experience that makes it a fantastic place to meet up with friends who appreciate the arts. What sets ACB apart is its dedication to producing original contemporary classical ballets alongside masterworks that showcase dance as a musical art form. With a repertoire spanning over 60 shows each season, featuring legendary choreographers like George Balanchine and Fred Astaire alongside Lincoln Jones’s own works, ACB blends tradition with innovative artistry. A distinctive element of their performances is the choice of non-traditional venues such as skyscrapers and architecturally significant spaces, creating an intimate setting where the audience is seated at stage level. This proximity fosters a powerful connection to the dancers' athleticism and the ballet’s beauty. Notably, ACB is the only ballet company in Los Angeles to perform exclusively with live music, performed by some of the city’s finest classical musicians, enhancing the richness and authenticity of each show. Their original productions, such as the immersive Nutcracker Suite, surround the audience within the set itself, offering a three-dimensional theatrical experience that is both unique and engaging. This vibrant blend of contemporary creativity with classical foundations makes American Contemporary Ballet a must-visit cultural hub for memorable social gatherings and artistic exploration.
Here's what people think of American Contemporary Ballet
As of recent, American Contemporary Ballet holds a 4.7-star rating based on 24 reviews.
Reviews of American Contemporary Ballet reveal a strong appreciation for their artistic excellence and innovative spirit. Audience members and critics alike highlight the company's ability to make ballet feel both relevant and exciting in the modern era. Positive reviews emphasize the expertise of the dancers and choreographers, with Lincoln Jones receiving particular acclaim for his musicality and imaginative choreography. Performances like the immersive Nutcracker Suite and daring pieces such as Inferno and Burlesque have been praised for their engaging, immersive quality and technical skill. Reviewers often note the company's willingness to take artistic risks while maintaining thoughtful and evocative storytelling. The use of live music by top classical musicians is also a standout positive feature that enriches the overall experience. Some negative feedback mentions occasional performance hiccups, such as momentary mishaps during lifts, and calls for even more energy and risk-taking to fully realize certain ballets. However, these critiques are generally mild and balanced by praise for the company's commitment to growth and refinement. Overall, reviews suggest that American Contemporary Ballet offers audiences not only highly skilled performances but also a vibrant, evolving vision for ballet that resonates deeply with both traditional ballet lovers and new audiences seeking contemporary cultural experiences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mike Kujak
I've been a huge fan of American Contemporary Ballet for years now and I try not to miss a single show on their calendar. The Nutracker show is an annual tradition around Christmas time for my family and friends and Inferno has even recently become our annual spooky Halloween tradition. ACB Jazz in the spring and Balanchine in the summer are also great for any fans of dance and live music. The company is constantly putting out fantastic shows each season while also pushing the boundaries and challenging the form. There's few things in life that are more inspiring and worth supporting than live performance. I couldn't recommend ACB highly enough.
Barbara
We attended the 2pm Nutcracker performance on 12/14/24. This is an OK event for children. Adult dance fans will find it very lacking. It felt like a pre-professional troop’s holiday recital for family.
Kennerh Friedman
ACB is a relatively young company comprised of skillful and passionate dancers (many with years of experience with this company and others) and a director/choreographer focused on classical/Balanchine style but with a view to the future. Performances tend to be just a little over an hour with live, not canned, music so they are an excellent introduction for audiences new to, and perhaps a little intimidated by, the art form as well as those more knowledgeable looking for technical and artistic excellence. The upcoming Nutcracker performances will be very family friendly and a terrific way to introduce children to both the art of the performer and to the "art" of attending a performance. In addition to dance performances, the Company occasionally does demonstrations and lectures ("Dancing School" and "Conversations") that provide the audience with a way to learn more about, and to more profoundly appreciate (and to understand what to look for in), the technique, context and history of ballet and to develop a deeper appreciation of the art. All performances end with an opportunity to meet and talk to the performers, musicians and directors. With the dual focus on the art (technique, musicality, artistry) and education (for the dancers as well as the audience), this Company is unique here in Los Angeles and quite extraordinary throughout the dance world. Having attended performances for six or more seasons, I can recommend it wholeheartedly as a way to enjoy and learn about ballet.
Vangie Ogg
My husband and I have been attending shows for about 4 seasons now. It makes for a fun date night. Friends that we’ve introduced to ACB are often blown away. Some of my favorite shows are Astaire Dances around Valentine’s Day and the Nutcracker Suite (an immersive experience) around the holidays. We love the intimate setting, the live music! Be sure to stick around after the show to get to know the dancers, the artistic director and executive director. They are super approachable and make themselves available if you want to learn more about the company. It’s a lovely ballet company I’m happy to support.
Mari Zamora
What the ACB has done with the Nutcracker Suite is absolutely incredible! To feel like you are part of this beautiful performance as an audience member is an incredibly unique experience. I have seen the ACB's Nutcracker Suite a handful times and each time it is more magical than the last. Attending the Nutcracker Suite has become the kickoff to the holiday season for my family. So much so that we have already purchased tickets to two shows and are planning to purchase more so that we can spread the magic and holiday cheer with our family and friends! The ACB has truly captured the holiday spirit in this beautiful production.
How to reach American Contemporary Ballet
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Why American Contemporary Ballet may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at American Contemporary Ballet with your friends?
Gathering your friends at American Contemporary Ballet (ACB) is an inspiring way to connect over a shared appreciation of artistry, innovation, and cultural sophistication. This Los Angeles-based company stands out by offering not just any ballet performance, but a fully immersive experience that bridges classical tradition with contemporary creativity. Attending a performance here means witnessing masterworks alongside original ballets choreographed by Lincoln Jones, blending elegance and modern movement in a vibrant atmosphere. The intimacy of the venue seating at stage level places you and your friends mere feet away from the dancers, creating a rare, visceral connection with the athleticism and beauty on display. Beyond the show itself, the interactive receptions that follow performances invite you to mingle directly with dancers and musicians, turning the night into an enriching social event. Whether you are seasoned ballet enthusiasts or new to the art form, the combination of live orchestral music, thought-provoking choreography, and engagement with performers makes ACB a captivating place to rally and deepen your connection with friends through culture and creativity.
What activities can you enjoy at American Contemporary Ballet?
At American Contemporary Ballet, the centerpiece activity is attending a diverse array of ballet performances that run over 60 shows each season. These performances include both original contemporary classical ballets created by Lincoln Jones and reinterpretations of celebrated works by ballet legends such as George Balanchine and Fred Astaire. Beyond traditional theater settings, ACB performs in architecturally significant, non-traditional spaces, including skyscrapers and modern venues, enriching the viewing experience by situating ballet in unexpected environments. This approach enhances the spatial and emotional connection audiences feel with the dancers. Another signature activity is the exclusive live musical accompaniment; every ballet is performed with live orchestral music, featuring some of Los Angeles’ finest classical musicians, setting ACB apart as the city’s only ballet company delivering this dynamic synergy. Post-performance receptions offer informal mingling and conversation opportunities where guests can meet the artists, ask questions, and gain unique insights into the dance and music. For those interested in deeper engagement, ACB also offers educational programs such as Conversations and Dancing School, where attendees can explore ballet intellectually and even participate in learning experiences related to dance and music.
Why is American Contemporary Ballet perfect for a group meetup?
American Contemporary Ballet’s combination of intimate, immersive performances, unique venues, and interactive post-show events makes it exceptionally suited for group gatherings. The seating arrangement at stage level means that no matter the size of your group, everyone enjoys an excellent view and a close connection to the performance, promoting a shared experience that can spark lively discussions afterward. The diversity of the repertory, from classical to innovative contemporary works, ensures that the program appeals to a broad range of tastes and sparks creative conversations among friends or family. The receptions following each show provide a welcoming social space for groups to relax, interact with performers, and celebrate the evening over light refreshments, turning your outing into a micro-community event. Additionally, ACB’s performances often occur in architecturally special spaces around Los Angeles, offering a chance for group members to appreciate art and architecture together beyond the ballet itself. Whether your group is composed of casual cultural explorers or passionate ballet lovers, the inclusive, engaging nature of ACB’s programs fosters camaraderie and memorable shared experiences.
What makes American Contemporary Ballet unique compared to other ballet companies?
American Contemporary Ballet distinguishes itself through its dedication to blending classical ballet technique with contemporary innovation, performed exclusively to live music. Unlike many other companies, ACB’s performances are accompanied by live orchestras, featuring top-tier musicians, creating a richer, more vibrant, and authentic auditory experience. The company also emphasizes presenting ballet in unconventional spaces such as skyscrapers and architecturally significant venues rather than limiting itself to traditional theaters. This creative choice enhances the immersive quality and accessibility of the art form. Additionally, ACB’s artistic direction under Lincoln Jones focuses on both honoring ballet’s legendary masters while also championing original choreography, resulting in a repertory that is both classic and daringly fresh. The company actively engages audiences beyond the performance through educational talks, post-show receptions, and community programs, inviting deeper intellectual and emotional involvement. This holistic approach—where performance, music, education, and audience connection integrate seamlessly—places ACB at the forefront of contemporary ballet experiences in Los Angeles.
How does American Contemporary Ballet foster an engaging atmosphere for audiences?
At American Contemporary Ballet, fostering an engaging atmosphere happens on multiple levels. The physical setup of performances, where audiences sit at stage level, removes the traditional barrier between viewer and performer, creating an intimate space where spectators feel enveloped by the dance. This proximity magnifies the emotional expressiveness and technical precision of the dancers, making the art form more immediate and compelling. The presence of live orchestral musicians onstage adds a dynamic layer, connecting audiences not only to dance but to music as a living, interactive art form played in real time, deepening sensory engagement. After each show, the company hosts receptions that invite the audience to meet and converse with dancers and musicians, allowing for personal storytelling, questions, and appreciation that elevate the communal experience. Furthermore, ACB’s educational programs offer forums for learning and discussion, encouraging audiences to think critically and emotionally about ballet. This combination of intimacy, multisensory richness, and social interaction transforms a ballet night into a holistic cultural event where audiences are active participants rather than passive observers.
Why is live music important to American Contemporary Ballet's performances?
Live music is a cornerstone of American Contemporary Ballet’s artistic identity and performance philosophy. Unlike most ballet performances, which use recorded music, ACB collaborates with some of Los Angeles’ finest classical musicians to provide live orchestral accompaniment for every show. This choice elevates the authenticity and emotional intensity of the performance, as dancers and musicians respond to each other’s timing, dynamics, and mood in real time. The live musical environment enhances the fluidity and spontaneity of the dance, making each performance unique and vibrant. Musicians and dancers become artistic collaborators, creating a richer and more nuanced dialogue between movement and sound. For the audience, this live element engages multiple senses simultaneously and offers a more immersive, emotionally resonant experience. The presence of live music also reflects the company’s dedication to presenting ballet as a fully integrated musical art form, honoring ballet’s historical roots while pushing it forward in the contemporary era.
What educational and social opportunities does American Contemporary Ballet provide?
American Contemporary Ballet offers several educational and social opportunities that deepen audience engagement and build community around dance. The company’s Conversations series provides post-performance talks where choreographers, dancers, and musicians discuss their artistic process, repertoire, and the cultural context of works, helping audiences understand and appreciate ballet on a deeper level. Additionally, the Dancing School program offers participatory workshops and classes that allow attendees to experience ballet techniques and movement principles firsthand, fostering a more intimate connection with the art. Each performance is followed by a reception where guests can meet the artists, interact in a relaxed setting, and network with other ballet enthusiasts, turning a night at the ballet into a lively social event. ACB also encourages community involvement through volunteer opportunities and membership programs that provide behind-the-scenes access and insider experiences. These initiatives make ACB not only a place to watch ballet but a hub where audiences can actively engage intellectually, socially, and physically with the dance community.
What does the future hold for American Contemporary Ballet?
The future of American Contemporary Ballet looks promising as it continues to innovate while maintaining a strong foundation in classical tradition. With over 50 performances annually and a growing base of dedicated members and volunteers, ACB is firmly establishing itself as a pioneering force in Los Angeles’s cultural scene. The company’s ongoing commitment to performing in unique venues and pairing ballet with live music sets it apart and promises to attract diverse audiences. Choreographer and Artistic Director Lincoln Jones remains focused on creating original works that push the boundaries of ballet, blending classical technique with contemporary themes and aesthetics. Educational outreach and engagement programs are expanding, opening more doors for community involvement and audience enrichment. As it evolves, ACB’s vision of making ballet culturally relevant and accessible in the 21st century continues to drive its artistic and organizational development, making it an exciting destination for ballet lovers, newcomers, and groups looking for meaningful cultural experiences.
This comprehensive overview highlights American Contemporary Ballet as an exceptional venue for group cultural outings, offering a unique blend of immersive performances, live music collaboration, innovative choreography, and community engagement that makes it a compelling choice for rallies with friends and family.