Philadelphia Ballet to Feature Ghostly Performances This Halloween Season

Philadelphia’s ballet scene is poised for a captivating treat with the world premiere of “Valley of Death,” created by resident choreographer Juliano Nunes, as part of the Philadelphia Ballet’s Halloween program at the Academy of Music. The performance opens on Thursday night and promises to deliver an engaging blend of classical ballet with psychological horror.

Initially, Nunes was hesitant when artistic director Angel Corella proposed the idea of developing a Halloween-themed ballet. His concerns revolved around aligning with an appropriate tone and crafting a narrative that transcended mere entertainment. However, after deeper contemplation and a study of classic works like “Giselle,” he found inspiration in the themes of horror and the spectral elements present in ballet.

Nunes, originally from Brazil and proficient in multiple languages, started scripting the ballet while reflecting on the ghosts that populate “Giselle.” He was captivated by the idea of jilted brides, the “Willis,” and how their plight could inform a new narrative. This exploration led to the incorporation of scenes depicting a ball that transitions into a haunting underworld, highlighting a significant thematic juxtaposition.

Collaborating closely with his partner, Youssef Hotait—a designer specializing in costumes and sets—Nunes crafted “Valley of Death” entirely by themselves, from the narrative to the choreography and theatrical design. This hands-on approach underscores their commitment to ensuring that every aspect of the production resonates with their artistic vision.

Set to evocative scores by Ralph Vaughan Williams and Sergei Rachmaninoff, “Valley of Death” promises a rich, immersive experience. It will showcase a lush corps de ballet in the second act, complementing its three primary characters and opening with a story steeped in tragedy. The narrative weaves elements of suffering and an alluring sense of danger, encapsulating the darker aspects of human experience and the supernatural.

This premiere is part of a larger trend in ballet that increasingly embraces thematic works around seasonal celebrations. Productions such as “The Nutcracker” are crucial for companies like Philadelphia Ballet, providing substantial revenue streams essential for their annual budgets. With a history of utilizing horror themes—previously staging choreographer Ben Stevenson’s “Dracula”—the company is well-positioned to delve into this new, ambitious direction.

Following “Valley of Death,” Nunes is set to debut an adaptation of “Romeo & Juliet” in April, alongside his involvement with “Have We Met?!” at Lincoln Center, highlighting the interconnectedness of his creative journey. As he navigates these dual explorations of resurrection and tragedy, audiences are invited to witness significant growth in contemporary ballet narratives that honor traditional influences while pushing the boundaries of the art form.

Tickets for “Philadelphia Ballet: Evening of Horror,” running from October 16 through 19, are priced between and 1 and can be purchased through the Philadelphia Ballet’s official website. This event holds the potential not only to entertain but also to provoke thought and inspire dialogue among ballet enthusiasts and newcomers alike.