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Ballet Zurich Honors Mats Ek with Radical 'Carmen' and New Double Bill 'Oiseaux Rebelles'

other · 2026-08-20

On the occasion of his 80th birthday, Ballet Zurich pays tribute to Swedish choreographer Mats Ek by presenting his groundbreaking version of 'Carmen' within the double bill 'Oiseaux Rebelles'. A critique in the Neue Zürcher Zeitung underscores Ek's significant impact, pointing out that the current wave of rebellion in ballet is largely driven by seasoned artists. The piece also references Heinz Spoerli, the former director of Ballet Zurich, whose works are being revisited. This evening illustrates how established masters have shaped the art form, with Ek continuing to play a crucial role in contemporary ballet. The homage highlights his innovative approach, as 'Carmen' departs from conventional storytelling, reinforcing the importance of both Ek and Spoerli in ballet's legacy.

Key facts

  • Ballet Zurich is honoring Mats Ek on his 80th birthday.
  • The tribute features a staging of Ek's radical 'Carmen'.
  • The new double bill is titled 'Oiseaux Rebelles'.
  • The program makes clear what younger dance artists lack.
  • Rebellion in ballet now comes almost only from the older generation.
  • Heinz Spoerli's ballet art is being revived.
  • The article title translates to 'Only the best for the young – a revival for Heinz Spoerli's great ballet art'.
  • The production is presented by Ballet Zurich in Zurich.

Entities

Artists

  • Mats Ek
  • Heinz Spoerli

Institutions

  • Ballet Zurich
  • Neue Zürcher Zeitung

Locations

  • Zurich
  • Switzerland

Sources