Betrayal, Passion and Revenge Take Center Stage November 1-4, 2007

MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Ballet opens its season November 1-4 with Stephen Mills’ nationally acclaimed “Hamlet.”  Hailed by “Dance Magazine” as “…sleek and sophisticated,” the sensational ballet combines classical and contemporary production based on the Shakespearian drama.  This is the first time Milwaukee Ballet will perform Hamlet.

Mills’ “Hamlet” has a 21st century style feel, complete with men dressed in Armani-inspired suits and female dancers in cocktail gowns. The dancers reveal the story of Hamlet’s troubled romance and the inner tormented thoughts of a man who vows to avenge the death of his father in a two-act ballet that is truly unique.

As a flashback from Hamlet’s deathbed, “Mills creates movements that voice the inarticulate – despair, grief, madness –to ring depth to each leading character,” praised “Dance Magazine.” The intense theatrics, metallic surfaces, translucent fabrics and the haunting, richly textured music of nationally acclaimed Philip Glass make this an unforgettable performance.

“We’re thrilled to have this world-class production travel to Milwaukee,” said Michael Pink, artistic director of the Milwaukee Ballet. “If you were impressed with Mark Godden's adaptation of Mozart's Magic Flute, then I feel confident that you will be equally impressed with this production of ‘Hamlet’ featuring the haunting music of Philip Glass."

“Hamlet” runs November 1-4, 2007 in Uihlein Hall of the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, 929 N. Water Street, Milwaukee. Tickets to “Hamlet” start at $22. To order call 414-273-7206 or visit www.milwaukeeballet.org.

Stephen Mills

Mills is the artistic director of Ballet Austin. In his inaugural season Mills attracted national attention with his world-premiere production of “Hamlet.” He has created more than 40 works for companies in the United States and abroad. His ballets are in the repertories of such companies as The Atlanta Ballet, Washington Ballet and BalletMet Columbus. In addition to his work as a choreographer, Mills is committed as a master teacher to developing dancers.

Milwaukee Ballet

Founded in 1970, the Milwaukee Ballet Company strives to inspire its audiences to think within and beyond traditional ballet through the presentation of quality performances and the implementation of educational opportunities. With an annual operating budget of just under $5 million, the Milwaukee Ballet Company presents more than 40 performances to 70,000 people each year. For more information about the Milwaukee Ballet or to receive a season brochure, call (414) 902-2103. Information about the Milwaukee Ballet’s 2007–2008 season may also be obtained online at www.milwaukeeballet.org.