Goings On: THE TREY McINTYRE PROJECT + PHJB = Ma Maison

Trey McIntyre, one of the world's most sought-after choreographers, is bringing his critically-acclaimed ballet company The Trey McIntyre Project to New Orleans for two nights of performances at Tulane University's Dixon Hall on November 21 and 22.

"One of the hottest choreographers in the dance world" (The Boston Globe), McIntyre has been a force on the international dance scene creating fresh and innovative works for over 20 years. With the dance world hungry for new creative voices, McIntyre's career has sky-rocketed. Rooted in classical ballet, his in-demand dances are hip, contemporary, and set to a brilliant variety of music from Brubeck and The Beatles to Beethoven and Beck. Since the debut of his first work in 1990 for Houston Ballet, he has created over 70 ballets for more than 30 prestigious companies, including American Ballet Theatre, Stuttgart Ballet, Hubbard Street Dance Chicago, and Aspen Santa Fe Ballet.

As a part of the company's first performances in New Orleans, TMP joins forces with the New Orleans Ballet Association to create a brand new work, Ma Maison, featuring iconic New Orleans jazz music. After exploring the music scene and clubs of New Orleans, McIntyre selected The Preservation Hall Jazz Band to provide the soundtrack for his new work and collaborated with PHJB to hand-pick the six-song score that will be performed live by the band for the premiere at Dixon Hall. "When I danced with Houston Ballet, I used to jump in my car every single layoff and drive to New Orleans. I had more friends there than I did in Texas. I am so fond of the culture and people. There is truly no place like it," said McIntyre. "It was an easy choice for me to work with The Preservation Hall Jazz Band. These are excellent musicians who understand the canon they work within with great care and understanding."

"It's always exciting to collaborate with artists on projects that celebrate New Orleans. Working with Trey is extraordinary because he brings his own distinct creative vision to the table. I am always amazed at the way people view New Orleans from the outside looking in," said Ben Jaffe, Creative Director for The Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Ma Maison also features costumes by award-winning New Orleans-based designer Jeanne Button and masks by renowned Broadway production designer Michael Curry. The final staging for Ma Maison will be done in New Orleans during TMP's week-long residency, and afterward will be included as part of TMP's world tour.

"Part of NOBA's mission is to perpetuate and strengthen the performing arts in New Orleans, and one way of doing this is by facilitating the creation of new works. With an impressive track record for working with a variety of musical styles, Trey McIntyre was an obvious choice for choreographer. Our only stipulation was that Trey use New Orleans jazz music. NOBA is thrilled to be a part of this unique collaboration and TMP's inaugural tour," said NOBA Executive Director, Jenny Hamilton.

Tickets for the performance range from $30 to $80. Students and seniors (65 and older) receive a $7 discount off the regular ticket prices. Group discounts also are available. For tickets or information, call the New Orleans Ballet Association Box Office at (504) 522-0996. Tickets may be purchased online through www.nobadance.com, or via Ticketmaster at (504) 522-5555 or www.ticketmaster.com.