Montana Ballet Company continues its 2025-26 season with the romantic, classic story ballet, Sleeping Beauty. In collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony conducted by Norman Huynh, performances will be held on Saturday, March 7th, at 2pm and 7pm, then closing on Sunday, March 8th, at 2pm. All will be held at the Willson Auditorium.
Sleeping Beauty represented the first collaboration of the French ballet master Marius Petipa and Pyotr Tchaikovsky. Still one of the most beloved and enduring ballets of all time, this production offers a special opportunity to experience MBC’s interpretation alongside Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, performed by a full Bozeman Symphony Orchestra under Huynh’s direction.
“We are deeply excited for this collaboration with the Bozeman Symphony and grateful for the artistry and generosity the musicians bring to the stage. Having Norman conduct our dancers for the first time – together with the full symphony – is an exciting and meaningful milestone for MBC. The expanded orchestra creates a rare and powerful opportunity for ballet and live music to meet in their fullest expression, and we are honored to share that experience with our audiences.” Said MBC Artistic Director, Melissa Bowman.
“I’m really looking forward to this production and to collaborating with the artistic team at Montana Ballet Company,” said Bozeman Symphony Music Director Norman Huynh. “What excites me most is the expanded pit, which allows us to bring a larger orchestra into the performance. Having a full orchestra in the pit adds tremendous depth, energy and impact to the ballet – it’s going to be an incredible experience for audiences.”
Norman Huynh is Music Director of the Bozeman Symphony and the Britt Music & Arts Festival in Oregon. He has earned widespread acclaim for his natural musicality, technical command, dynamic presence on the podium, imaginative programming, and ability to connect with new audiences. Huynh has guest-conducted many of North America’s leading orchestras, including the New York Philharmonic, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, San Diego Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Oregon Symphony, Detroit Symphony Orchestra and Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, among others. A proud first-generation Asian American, Huynh discovered classical music as a 12-year-old trombonist in Alabama.
In addition, MBC has expanded its collaboration within the Bozeman arts community to include Genevieve Trygstad-Burke, Co-Founder and Executive Artistic Director of Raison D’être Dance Project and Development Director of Opera Montana, and Riley O’Toole, Associate Artistic Director of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks.
The tale of Sleeping Beauty, known for its enchanting storyline and timeless appeal, has captivated audiences for generations. Through its rich symbolism, memorable characters, and enduring themes of hope and destiny, the ballet continues to resonate with viewers of all ages, securing its place as one of the most cherished ballets.
Sleeping Beauty will run for three performances, Saturday and Sunday, March 7th–8th. Purchase tickets at www.MontanaBallet.org or call (406) 582-8702.
Season after season, MBC, a local nonprofit organization, produces quality performances, enchanting audiences with new and updated artistry of dance, choreography, music and design. •
