Dance Alive presents ‘Romeo & Juliet’
Press release from Dance Alive National Ballet
GAINESVILLE, Fla. – Back by popular demand, Dance Alive presents Shakespeare’s tale of doomed lovers — the tragic, beautiful, and glorious love story of Romeo and Juliet. Passion, romance, and fate collide as “Romeo & Juliet” takes the stage. From breathtaking lifts to heart-stopping sword fights, this ballet brings Shakespeare’s timeless tale to life in the most beautiful way. In a world where their love is forbidden, ‘Romeo’ & ‘Juliet’ share a kiss that defies their families and fate.
This great Shakespearean tragedy is brought to life by the late Tom Pazik, the choreographer who created DANB’s “Carmina Burana.” The heartbreaking feud between the Capulets and Montagues results in the doomed lovers’ deaths and a sad reconciliation for the families. Would that the world could learn from the Bard’s story.
Principal dancer Rosemary Deiorio will dance ‘Juliet,’ with Principal Tales Ribeiro as her ‘Romeo’. The original set design was by award-winning Carlos Asse with reconstruction by Matt Pollard; costume design and execution are by Chris Takashima and Rebecca Flake. UF’s Tiza Garland staged the original fencing choreography with light design by Bob Robins. The music combines a recording of the wonderful 1935 Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet” along with music from the 16th century. Had ‘Romeo’ and ‘Juliet’ actually existed, this would have been the music they would have danced to.
Come join us to see their passionate and tragic love story unfold. Experience the passion, the heartbreak, and the timeless romance that will stay with you long after the final bow.
Family friendly. Sword fighting involved.
WHAT: ROMEO & JULIET
WHEN: February 21, 2026, at 7:30 p.m.
WHERE: Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
INFO: 352-371-2986 OR info@dancealive.org
TICKETS: https://dancealive.org/2025/06/29/romeo-and-juliet/