Dance Theatre of Harlem’s ‘Firebird’ Returns to Detroit in Fiery Homecoming

November 5, 2025

Dance Theatre of Harlem is bringing back its celebrated Firebird ballet to the Detroit Opera House on November 15-16, marking the first revival of the production in over twenty years. The ballet, originally choreographed in 1982 with a distinctive Caribbean aesthetic by Geoffrey Holder, will be presented alongside three other contemporary works as part of a diverse program. The company has deep historical ties to Detroit, including its executive director Anna Glass and several dancers who hail from the city, and the organization was founded in 1969 following Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Who is affected

Dance Theatre of Harlem company and dancers
Detroit audiences attending the performances
2,000 Detroit Public Schools students participating in the Cultural Passport program
Patients and staff at Henry Ford Hospital
Divine Nine sororities and fraternities (being celebrated at Saturday's show)
Detroit Opera House attendees and masterclass participants
Detroit residents eligible for discounted tickets
Executive Director Anna Glass and Detroit-born dancers Derek Brockington and Ariana Dickerson

What action is being taken

Dance Theatre of Harlem is performing Firebird and three other works at the Detroit Opera House on November 15-16
Dancers are visiting Henry Ford Hospital
The company is teaching a masterclass at the opera house
The company is performing for 2,000 Detroit Public Schools students through the Cultural Passport program
Detroit residents can purchase $25 tickets in person at the box office starting the Monday before the show

Why it matters

This return matters because it reconnects Dance Theatre of Harlem with a city that played a significant role in the company's early development and continues to be represented in its leadership and roster. The revival of Firebird after more than two decades demonstrates the enduring relevance of the company's mission to fuse classical ballet with Black cultural expression, a vision established in 1969 following Dr. King's assassination. The extensive community engagement—including performances for students and hospital visits—extends the company's impact beyond traditional audiences, making ballet more accessible. The production also represents artistic excellence and cultural celebration, showcasing how classical art forms can be reimagined through diverse cultural perspectives while maintaining their power to inspire across generations.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle