News Summary
Beverly Hills will host the U.S. premiere of Benjamin Millepied’s ballet trilogy ‘Gems’, performed by the L.A. Dance Project from October 23-25. The performance features three works inspired by precious stones and will take place at the Wallis Annenberg Center. Ticket prices start at $42.90, highlighting the exceptional talent of LADP’s dancers with accompaniment by renowned composers.
Beverly Hills will host the U.S. premiere of Benjamin Millepied’s ballet trilogy “Gems,” presented by the L.A. Dance Project (LADP) from Thursday, October 23, through Saturday, October 25, 2025. The performances will occur at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd. Showtimes are set for 7:30 p.m. each night, with ticket prices starting at $42.90.
The “Gems” program comprises three distinct works: “Reflections,” “Hearts & Arrows,” and “On the Other Side.” Each ballet draws inspiration from the emotional and symbolic significance of precious stones and features a unique aesthetic and choreography. This trilogy, created in collaboration with the prestigious jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels, marks a significant milestone in Millepied’s creative journey, which has spanned over a decade.
The music accompanying “Gems” includes compositions from renowned composers David Lang and Philip Glass. Additionally, the visual art that enhances the performances has been contributed by noted artists Barbara Kruger, Liam Gillick, and Mark Bradford.
Details of the Performances
Each ballet within the trilogy showcases the exceptional talent of LADP’s dancers, who have been praised by critics for their technique. “Reflections,” created in 2013, is acknowledged for its complex movement and playful interactions, offering an engaging experience. “Hearts & Arrows,” which draws inspiration from the Diamonds section of George Balanchine’s “Jewels,” incorporates a dynamic, industrial aesthetic that captivates audiences. Finally, “On the Other Side” features a vibrant, multi-colored backdrop and is celebrated for its choreography and execution. Millepied has specifically reworked this ballet to better reflect his growth as a choreographer and to capture more light.
Background Information
The trilogy acknowledges the lasting influence of Balanchine’s “Jewels,” which premiered in 1967. Millepied’s works will be presented in chronological order, allowing audiences to experience the evolution of his choreographic style. Prior to the U.S. premiere, “Gems” saw its Australian premiere in Brisbane, with a performance scheduled in New York for Spring 2026.
Reviews from earlier performances of “Gems” reveal a divide among critics regarding which ballet is the strongest, with each piece evoking different responses. The performing dancers include Courtney Conovan, Daphne Fernberger, Robert Hoffer, Shu Kinouchi, Clay Koonar, Audrey Sides, Hope Spears, and Noah Wang.
The premiere of “Gems” promises to be a significant event for the L.A. Dance Project and the broader dance community, highlighting Millepied’s innovative contributions to the art form.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beverly Hills to Host ‘Gatherings’, a Featured Dance Event
Beverly Hills Announces New Performing Arts Season
Additional Resources
- L.A. Dance Chronicle: Going for Optical Symmetry
- Los Angeles Times: Dance Events in L.A. Fall 2025
- South Pasadena News: L.A. Dance Project’s Gatherings Premieres
- Beverly Hills Courier: City Council Approves Bonds
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ballet
Author: STAFF HERE BEVERLY HILLS WRITER
The Beverly Hills Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREBeverlyHills.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Rodeo Drive Concours d'Elegance, the Beverly Hills artSHOW, Concerts on Canon, and holiday celebrations throughout the city. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce and Visit Beverly Hills, plus leading businesses in luxury fashion, hospitality, and entertainment that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELosAngeles.com, HERESantaAna.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, and HERECostaMesa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
