The convergence of literary tragedy and contemporary choreography takes center stage as Works & Process prepares to host a preview of American Ballet Theatre’s revival of Othello: A Dance in Three Acts. This production, a signature work by acclaimed choreographer Lar Lubovitch, offers a sophisticated movement-based interrogation of William Shakespeare’s narrative, translating the complexities of the human psyche into the formal language of classical and modern dance.
Set to an original score by Academy Award-winning composer Elliot Goldenthal, the ballet provides a visceral exploration of the Moorish general Othello and his tragic descent into madness. The narrative arc, propelled by the machinations of the ensign Iago, examines the fragility of trust and the destructive nature of unchecked jealousy. Lubovitch’s choreography navigates the profound emotional terrain of Othello’s relationship with Desdemona, utilizing the expressive power of the human form to articulate themes of betrayal and innocence that transcend spoken dialogue.
This upcoming presentation serves as a technical and conceptual precursor to American Ballet Theatre’s Spring season at Lincoln Center’s David H. Koch Theater. The event is structured to offer audiences a rare insight into the creative evolution of the work, blending live performance excerpts with a moderated discourse. ABT Artistic Director Susan Jaffe will lead a panel discussion featuring Lubovitch and company dancers, focusing on the preservation and reinterpretation of this pivotal repertoire.
The program is a product of the Works & Process mission to champion the performing arts through integrated residencies and behind-the-scenes access. By facilitating a dialogue between the artists and the public, the organization underscores the importance of the creative process in the development of large-scale commissions. This initiative is supported by a broad coalition of philanthropic leaders and public institutions, including the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and the New York State Council on the Arts, ensuring the continued vitality of the city’s performing arts ecosystem.
As American Ballet Theatre continues to curate its legacy, the revival of Othello stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of Shakespearean themes when viewed through the lens of modern masterworks. The upcoming session at the Peter B. Lewis Theater provides a critical opportunity for the cultural community to engage with the structural and emotional nuances of Lubovitch’s vision before its full-scale mounting in March.
Event Details
The Works & Process preview of American Ballet Theatre’s Othello: A Dance in Three Acts by Lar Lubovitch will take place on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The performance and discussion will be held at the Peter B. Lewis Theater, located within the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum at 1071 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY.
