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Entertainment
May 14, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Tulsa Ballet’s ‘Made in America’ Dazzles London with Versatile Triple Bill

AI Summary
Tulsa Ballet made its UK debut at the Linbury Theatre, delivering a three‑piece programme that blended neoclassical, pop‑classical and Broadway styles. Critics praised the company’s technical precision and versatility, hinting at a broader international touring agenda.

London Debut Marks a Milestone for Tulsa Ballet

The Oklahoma‑based company made its first UK appearance at the Linbury Theatre, Royal Opera House in London, performing its “Made in America” triple‑bill until 17 May 2026. Under artistic director Marcello Angelini, the troupe demonstrated why its 70‑year legacy continues to resonate internationally.

Triple‑Bill Programme Showcases Choreographic Range

The evening opened with Classical Symphony by Ukrainian choreographer Yuri Possokhov, set to Prokofiev and interpreted by lead couple Nao Ota and Jun Masuda. The second piece, Divenere by Nicolo Fonte, paired Ludovico Einaudi’s pop‑classical piano with a lyrical solo for Masuda. The finale, Remember Our Song, was choreographed by Broadway veteran Andy Blankenbuehler, condensing a wartime narrative into a 15‑minute burst of swing and Charleston.

Performance Metrics and Audience Reach

  • Venue: Linbury Theatre, Royal Opera House, London
  • Run: 14 May – 17 May 2026
  • Seating capacity: approx. 400 seats per performance
  • Critical reception: praised for technical precision, musicality, and versatility

Implications for American Ballet on the Global Stage

The successful London run signals growing appetite for American regional companies abroad. By blending neoclassical works with contemporary pop‑classical scores and Broadway‑style storytelling, Tulsa Ballet positions itself as a versatile ambassador for U.S. dance, potentially influencing programming choices at other European houses.

Future Prospects for Tulsa Ballet’s International Touring

Buoyed by the positive press, the company is likely to schedule additional European dates in the 2026‑27 season, possibly targeting festivals in Paris and Berlin. Continued collaborations with choreographers like Possokhov and Blankenbuehler could cement Tulsa Ballet’s reputation as a conduit for cross‑Atlantic artistic exchange.