When Baryshnikov Wanted a Challenge, Twyla Tharp Delivered

The American Ballet Theater is opening its season with an all-Tharp program, featuring the choreographer's 1976 work "Push Comes to Shove." This piece was the first Tharp created for the company and its newly defected star, Mikhail Baryshnikov. Baryshnikov, a renowned Soviet dancer, had recently defected to the West, seeking new artistic challenges. Tharp, known for her innovative and boundary-pushing choreography, was the perfect collaborator to meet his desire for a creative challenge. "Push Comes to Shove" blended Tharp's distinctive contemporary style with classical ballet, showcasing Baryshnikov's exceptional technical skills and versatility. The work was well-received and has remained a significant part of the company's repertoire over the years. The opening of the American Ballet Theater's season with this all-Tharp program highlights the enduring impact of the collaboration between the choreographer and the iconic dancer, which pushed the boundaries of traditional ballet and continues to captivate audiences today.