From Nov. 8 to 9, Princeton University Ballet filled Frist Theater with color in their show “chroma.” The program describes the performance as the “purity of color” and “freedom from white or gray,” with dance styles inspired by the renowned choreographer Wayne McGregor. The show was a compilation of choreographies that were inspired by different centuries and styles, from classical ballet and beyond. Each piece’s theme “showcas[ed] the vibrancy of [PUB] and the dynamism of ballet.”
The show opened with a spirited duet titled “Neapolitan” performed by An Phan ’26 and Seiya Saneyoshi ’27. Set to the iconic compositions of Tchaikovsky, the piece burst forth with energy, instantly captivating the audience. The choreography was bright and celebratory, blending classical ballet techniques with modern inflections, creating a fresh twist on Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. This jubilant opening set an uplifting tone for the evening, making it the perfect opener for the show.
In contrast, the following piece, “In Vivo”, introduced a modern and experimental aesthetic, departing from the light-hearted elegance of Neapolitan. Choreographed to an alternate version of Chicha Nola by Gitkin, the music provided an edgy soundscape that intensified the piece’s atmosphere. The dancers’ sharp movements and distinct costumes enhanced the otherworldly effect.
The beautiful, floral, light imagery in the third piece came as a surprise after reading its title, “Queen of the Night.” The dancers gracefully entered the stage in long flowy pink skirts — referencing to the Epiphyllum oxypetalum, a flower known as the “queen or princess of the night” in its nocturnal blooming patterns. The floral motif was apparent in the performance, as the seven dancers on stage created the image of the flower through their graceful movements and positioning. As the piece closed, the lights dimmed and the dancers gathered around PUB’s co-social chair, Paige Sherman ’25, creating a circle with their arms moving out gracefully, evoking the image of a flower blooming.
The night continued with other vibrantly memorable pieces including “Tetra Viva,” “Pink Ladies,” “In Retrograde,” “Viridis,” and “Joy” — all of which were excellent performances with each dancer that graced the stage. Before intermission, six dancers dressed in hot pink entered the stage for their piece “Pink Ladies,” accompanied by “My One and Only” & “Fascinating’ Rhythm” by George Gershwin. The performance was joyful and classy, with multiple notable moments, including the feature of a high-spirited kickline and elegant solo moments from each dancer.
While two pieces alluded to the white imagery of clouds, the dancers brought a vibrant colorful energy to the auditorium through their movement. While dancers in “Cumulus” were dressed in white billowy dresses which created the soft image of a cloud, the choreography brought the piece to life chromatically. “Cloud9” accompanied by “I’ll Haunt You” & “One Night with the Valet” by Tennis offered a significant shift from previous themes and costumery. “Is this the piece with the jorts?” “Rock the jorts!” audience members shouted as the dancers took the stage. Dressed in baggy band T-shirts and long denim shorts, the dancers brought contemporary elements to the stage, complete with their impeccable ballet skills. The unique combinations stayed true to the idea of freedom that the show’s theme hoped to convey, highlighted by the piece’s spontaneity.
The final piece of the evening — “What Would You Cast Into Existence?” — was a radiant expression of pure joy and community. From the moment the dancers took the stage, their typical casual summer attire — T-shirts, tank tops, denim shorts, and tennis shoes — confirmed a shift from formality to a more relaxed and relatable vibe. This choice of costume lent the performance a playful feeling, inviting the audience to experience dance as an extension of everyday life. The choreography was infused with a lighthearted spirit, featuring energetic leaps, spins, and spontaneous group formations that echoed the carefree atmosphere of summer gatherings with friends. The piece felt like a celebration of the beautiful community of PUB and the unique approach made it easier for viewers to imagine themselves dancing alongside the performers, sharing in PUB’s beautiful sense of togetherness and boundless energy, wishing only they had the dance skills to join in.
Natalia Diaz is a member of the Class of 2027 and a staff writer for The Prospect at the ‘Prince.’ She can be reached at nd6595[at]princeton.edu.
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