Even the title of this two-part ballet promises an evening of contrasts: tempo versus slowness. In 2027, the ballet world will celebrate the 80th birthday of Jiří Kylián. For over three decades, he shaped the profile of the Nederlands Dans Theater, which under his direction developed into one of the best contemporary ballet companies in the world. Since 1997, the Prague-born choreographer has also been connected to the Zurich Ballet. In slow motion, six figures move through his piece "Last Touch First", reminiscent of Chekhov and Ibsen. On the narrow line between perceived movement and immobility, psychodramas full of desire, despair, and pathos unfold. The Canadian-born Stephanie Lake is one of the most important dance personalities in her adopted home, Australia. She is the resident choreographer of the Australian Ballet and Resident Choreographer at the Semperoper Ballet. With her Melbourne-based Stephanie Lake Company, she tours the world. In her creations, she explores the relationship between the individual and the collective. To a new, percussion-dominated score by Robin Fox, she choreographs a fast-paced group piece for the Zurich Ballet.

UA Stephanie Lake is a world premiere contemporary dance work by Stephanie Lake, created for Ballet Zurich, combining powerful group choreography with an immersive soundscape by Robin Fox.

UA Stephanie Lake is a newly created contemporary ballet presented at the Zurich Opera House as part of Ballet Zurich’s repertoire. The abbreviation “UA” (Uraufführung) indicates that this is a world premiere, making the performance a unique opportunity to experience the work at its very first stage of life.

Choreographed by Stephanie Lake, who also serves as assistant director, the piece reflects her distinctive artistic voice—dynamic, physically demanding, and driven by strong ensemble energy. Her choreography often explores collective movement, rhythm, and the tension between individuality and group identity.

The music by Robin Fox creates an immersive sonic environment, blending electronic textures with spatial sound design. This collaboration enhances the physical intensity of the choreography and deepens the audience’s sensory experience.

The visual world is shaped by set designer Alex Gahr and costume designer Bregje van Balen, whose work supports the abstract and contemporary aesthetic of the production. Lighting design by Martin Gebhardt further defines the atmosphere, using light as an active element of the choreography.

Dramaturg Michael Küster contributes to the conceptual framework, helping structure the piece and refine its thematic direction.

Performed by Ballet Zurich, this production represents a bold and modern exploration of movement, sound, and stage space, offering audiences a fresh and powerful contemporary dance experience.

Last Touch First at the Zurich Opera House is a contemporary dance work exploring the relationship between movement, time, and human connection.

Last Touch First is a contemporary dance production presented at the Zurich Opera House, reflecting the company’s commitment to innovative and experimental performance.

The work focuses on the concept of time and perception, playing with the idea that endings and beginnings can overlap or reverse. Through abstract choreography, the dancers create a fluid narrative where gestures, repetitions, and physical interactions become the central language of expression.

The staging is typically minimalist, allowing the audience to concentrate on movement, rhythm, and spatial relationships. Lighting and music contribute to an атмосферное and immersive experience, enhancing the emotional resonance of the performance.

Rather than telling a linear story, Last Touch First invites the audience to interpret meaning through sensation and visual imagery, making each viewing a unique and personal experience.