Go-Go 50 Review: The Washington Ballet Celebrates D.C. Music and Culture in Style

I've seen ballet performances before, but I've never experienced one choreographed to Go-Go music. So, when I heard The Washington Ballet was celebrating its 50th anniversary with Go-Go 50, I knew I wanted to see how they would pull it off. I attended opening night on Friday, October 30, at Washington, D.C.'s historic Warner Theatre, and the evening didn't disappoint.

Ahead of the performance, I had the opportunity to interview Artistic Director Edwaard Liang and choreographer Chanel DaSilva about the production. Those conversations only increased my anticipation for what was in store.

The evening featured four works, each showcasing something different. Choo San Goh's Configurations highlighted the precision of classical ballet, while Liang's The Art of War delivered impressive choreography.

However, Trey McIntyre's Blue Until June, performed to the music of Etta James, was a thing of beauty. There's something special about watching dancers bring the emotion of a song to life without saying a word. James's timeless vocals, paired with the dancers' graceful movements, made this one of my favorite portions of the evening.

Of course, the main attraction for me was seeing how ballet would work alongside authentic D.C. Go-Go music. DaSilva's An Artist's Prayer, featuring Black Alley, delivered exactly what I had hoped for. The band's set included "Lift Every Voice and Sing," "Turn Me Up," "Love Me: Beautiful Ones," "Artist's Prayer," "Heavy Hittas," "Fortuna," and "Franchise" before closing with "Excuse Me While I Dance."

The live music brought infectious energy, and the dancers matched it without missing a beat. More importantly, neither element overshadowed the other. The combination felt natural rather than forced.

Now, as a lifelong New Edition fan, I do have one request. If anyone from The Washington Ballet is reading this, I'm going to need y'all to consider a production featuring New Edition's music. Imagine the choreography possibilities with "Can You Stand the Rain," "If It Isn't Love," or "Boys to Men."

Go-Go 50 reminded me that great entertainment doesn't have to fit into one particular box. The Washington Ballet honored its history while embracing the culture of the city it calls home. That's something worth celebrating.

Final Grade : A