Jonathan Batista and Amanda Morgan Break New Ground in Iconic “The Prodigal Son”
Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Jonathan Batista and Amanda Morgan to debut as principal dancers in The Prodigal Son on November 2nd at McCaw Hall.
Seattle audiences are abuzz with excitement for the upcoming Pacific Northwest Ballet (PNB) performances of The Prodigal Son, as Jonathan Batista, a celebrated ballet luminary, makes his much-anticipated debut in the iconic lead role. Sharing the stage with him is Amanda Morgan, a Soloist with PNB, marking a historic moment for the company. This debut represents a milestone in the ballet world, as Batista and Morgan are the first two Black dancers to perform the principal roles in a major PNB production, signaling a new chapter for diversity in classical ballet.
Jonathan Batista, known for his powerful and captivating performances, is no stranger to breaking barriers in ballet. His career has spanned top-tier companies across the globe, and his dedication to elevating ballet’s accessibility and representation has gained him both acclaim and a loyal following. His artistic journey, defined by resilience and an unwavering passion for the arts, resonates deeply with the story of The Prodigal Son, making his casting in the role both timely and profound. Batista has built a reputation for his magnetic stage presence, meticulous technique, and ability to convey raw emotion—qualities that will undoubtedly bring new depth to George Balanchine's classic work.
Sharing this historic moment is Amanda Morgan, a soloist whose innovative approach to dance and commitment to social change has distinguished her as a leading voice within and beyond the ballet community. Morgan, who advocates for inclusivity in the arts, brings an insightful and multifaceted perspective to her roles. Her partnership with Batista not only represents a powerful narrative on stage but also speaks to the possibilities that arise when artists of diverse backgrounds come together to shape a new vision for ballet.
The Prodigal Son, choreographed by the legendary George Balanchine, is a dramatic and technically demanding ballet that tells the story of a young man’s journey through rebellion, temptation, and, ultimately, redemption. This iconic work requires the lead dancers to embody complex emotions and deliver physically taxing performances, and
Audiences can expect Batista and Morgan to bring an inspiring and nuanced interpretation to their roles.
This historic debut is a testament to PNB’s evolving commitment to diversity and inclusivity in ballet. Batista and Morgan’s appearance in these lead roles highlights not only their individual artistry but also a shared vision for a more inclusive and representative ballet landscape. Their upcoming performance promises to be one of the season’s highlights, offering audiences a rare blend of artistic excellence and historic significance that underscores the power of ballet as a universal language.
You can catch Jonathan Batista and Amanda Morgan in George Balanchine's Prodigal Son at McCaw Hall on Saturday, November 2nd, at 7:30 p.m. This is an evening not to be missed, when talent, artistry, and history converge in a powerful celebration of what ballet can be. Tickets: https://www.pnb.org/
