The Joffrey Ballet opens its 69th season with the North American premiere of Cathy Marston’s poignant interpretation of Ian McEwan’s 2001 novel-turned-Academy Award®-winning film Atonement. The full-length narrative ballet follows Briony Tallis, revealed in the book as its author and now portrayed as a celebrated choreographer, as she grapples with the haunting echoes of her past through a breathtaking dance of redemption. Atonement will be presented at the historic Lyric Opera House, 20 North Upper Wacker Drive in downtown Chicago, in ten performances only, from October 17–27, 2024. Tickets are on sale starting August 1.
Marston’s adaptation unfolds the tragic love story of Briony’s older sister, Cecilia, against the historical backdrop of 1935 England to explore the intricate layers of societal norms and the enduring impact of a single lie. Enveloped in Laura Rossi’s evocative musical score, with dynamic choreography portraying the complexities of self-deception, the transformation of memory, and the weight of guilt, Atonement shares an emotionally charged experience with a startling twist finale that will linger in the soul. Learn more about Cathy Marston here.
Atonement is a co-production with Ballett Zürich and features live music performed by the Lyric Opera Orchestra, conducted by Scott Speck, Music Director of The Joffrey Ballet.
Cathy Marston's Atonement, Ballett Zürich premiere
With gratitude to Atonement Commissioning Sponsors: Producing Sponsors Anne L. Kaplan and Denise Littlefield Sobel; Presenting Sponsors Lorna Ferguson and Terry Clark, Rudolf Nureyev Fund at The Joffrey Ballet, Mr. and Mrs. Joel V. Williamson; and Production Sponsors Holly Palmer Foundation and Max Mara.
Title: The Joffrey Ballet presents Cathy Marston’s Atonement
Dates: Thursday, October 17–Sunday, October 27, 2024
Thursday, October 17 at 7:30PM; Friday, October 18 at 7:30PM; Saturday, October 19 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; Sunday, October 20 at 2:00PM; Thursday, October 24 at 7:30PM; Friday, October 25 at 7:30PM; Saturday, October 26 at 2:00PM and 7:30PM; and Sunday, October 27 at 2:00PM.
Location: Opera House
20 North Upper Wacker Drive
Box Office: Single tickets start at $36 and are available for purchase at Lyric Opera Box Office located at 20 N. Upper Wacker Dr. and by telephone at 312.386.8905, or online at joffrey.org.
About The Joffrey Ballet
The Joffrey Ballet is one of the premier dance companies in the world today, with a reputation for boundary-breaking performances for over 68 years. The Joffrey repertoire is an extensive collection of all-time classics, modern masterpieces, and original works.
Founded in 1956 by pioneers Robert Joffrey and Gerald Arpino, the Joffrey remains dedicated to artistic expression, innovation, and first-rate education and engagement programming. The Joffrey Ballet continues to thrive under The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and President and CEO Greg Cameron.
The Joffrey Ballet is grateful for the support of its 2024-2025 Season Sponsors: Abbott Fund, Alphawood Foundation Chicago, Daniel and Pamella DeVos Foundation, The Florian Fund, Gallagher, Anne L. Kaplan, and Live Music Sponsors: Sandy and Roger Deromedi, Sage Foundation, Robert and Penelope Steiner Family Foundation, and The Marina and Arnold Tatar Fund for Live Music. The Joffrey also acknowledges Season Partners: Chicago Athletic Clubs, and Athletico Physical Therapy, official provider of physical therapy for The Joffrey Ballet.
For more information on The Joffrey Ballet and its programs, visit joffrey.org. Connect with the Joffrey on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.