William Forsythe

William Forsythe at a glance

Forsythe is revered worldwide as a revolutionary force in the world of ballet. Since the 1970s, his work has redefined classical ballet, freeing dancers from traditional constraints and expanding the vocabulary of movement in astonishing new ways.

The event at Deutsche Oper Berlin is a tribute to Forsythe's tremendous contribution to the art form. The three powerful pieces featured in the show each highlight different aspects of his genius.

William Forsythe highlights

• Three iconic works: Three distinctive ballets by Forsythe are presented, each one a masterpiece that has shaped modern dance.
  

• Live music: Experience James Blake's evocative music paired with Forsythe's "Blake Works I", adding a deeply emotional layer to the performance.
  

• Ballet reimagined: Forsythe's choreography takes classical ballet and reshapes it into something modern, exciting and unpredictable.
  

• Top talent: Witness the artistry of the Staatsballett Berlin, performing these challenging and complex works live.
  

• A tribute to a visionary: This performance is a tribute to one of the greatest innovators of ballet.
  

Discover William Forsythe

Forsythe's contribution to ballet is unparalleled. Since his early beginnings in the 1970s, he has taken the classical structure of ballet and turned it on its head, injecting freedom, creativity and unpredictability into a traditionally rigid art form.

"Approximate Sonata 2016" is a perfect example of Forsythe's playful relationship with tradition. By taking the classical pas de deux and introducing humour and irony, he invites both the dancers and the audience to question the rules and enjoy the journey of movement exploration.

"One Flat Thing, Reproduced" is perhaps one of Forsythe's most striking pieces, with its physical and metaphorical barriers in the form of tables. The dancers move through a labyrinth, representing both the dangers and the beauty of human connection. Inspired by real-life exploration, the choreography mirrors the uncertainty and excitement of venturing into the unknown.

"Blake Works I" is a joyful embrace of ballet's past and present, merging its classical roots with contemporary music. The result is a visually and emotionally stunning experience that captures the spirit of innovation.

Top tips for William Forsythe

• The event runs from 24 January to 25 April 2025.
  

• Each piece brings something different – "Approximate Sonata 2016" for its nuanced elegance, "One Flat Thing, Reproduced" for its thrilling choreography, and "Blake Works I" for its emotional depth.
  

• Most performances begin at 7:30 pm, with an introduction 45 minutes before the start time – a great way to get context on the pieces.
  

• Advance tickets are available on the website of the Staatsballett Berlin, with discounts available for children and youth under 18.
  

• The venue is easily accessible by underground (U2 at Deutsche Oper or U7 at Bismarckstraße) and bus (lines 101, 109).
  

• The Deutsche Oper is wheelchair accessible, with dedicated parking spots and elevators for ease of access.
  

Featured artists

• William Forsythe (choreography, stage, lighting)
  

• James Blake, Thom Willems (music)
  

• Tanja Rühl (lighting)
  

• Dorothee Merg, Stephen Galloway (costumes)
  

• Stefanie Arndt, Ayman Harper, Thierry Guiderdoni (rehearsal direction)