Full Breakdown
New York City Ballet Premieres "The Naked King" and "The Wind-Up"
3/2/2026, 8:52:40 PM
Core Event: Premieres of New Ballets Reflecting Contemporary Themes
The New York City Ballet (N.Y.C.B.) recently premiered two new ballets, "The Naked King" and "The Wind-Up," showcasing the artistic visions of Alexei Ratmansky and Justin Peck. These works not only highlight the choreographers' unique styles but also engage with contemporary themes, including anti-monarchism and the exploration of physical limits in dance.
Ballets Overview: "The Naked King" and "The Wind-Up"
"The Naked King," choreographed by Alexei Ratmansky, draws inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's tale "The Emperor's New Clothes." Ratmansky's work is set to Jean Françaix’s score "Le Roi Nu," first performed in 1935. The ballet's message, as articulated by Ratmansky, critiques the absurdity of monarchy, reflecting sentiments from the recent No Kings protests. He stated, “We don’t need kings. They’re just so ridiculous.”
In contrast, Justin Peck's "The Wind-Up" is set to the first movement of Beethoven’s Third Symphony, the "Eroica." This symphony has historical ties to anti-imperial sentiment, as Beethoven initially intended to dedicate it to Napoleon Bonaparte before retracting the dedication. Peck's choreography emphasizes the physicality and heroism of the dancers, pushing them to their limits in a display of extraordinary movement.
Artistic Execution and Reception
"The Wind-Up" opens with dancer Daniel Ulbricht energetically entering a brightly lit stage, leading into a vibrant ensemble of dancers clad in colorful geometric costumes. The choreography features a blend of traditional ballet techniques and innovative movements, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience. The performance is characterized by a series of group sequences that emphasize collective movement over individual displays, showcasing the dancers' technical prowess and artistic expression.
Critics have noted that while Peck is known for his contemporary style, this ballet represents a bold departure into classical territory, challenging the notion that Beethoven's music is difficult to choreograph. The performance has been described as sophisticated and joyful, highlighting the dancers' immersion in the music and their ability to convey a sense of freedom and vitality.
Criticism & Opposition: Perspectives on Choreographic Choices
Despite the positive reception, some critics have raised concerns about Peck's tendency to favor light music and sentimentality, questioning whether this approach can fully capture the depth of Beethoven's work. The juxtaposition of Ratmansky's critical themes against Peck's more celebratory style has sparked discussions about the balance between artistic expression and thematic depth in contemporary ballet.
Verbatim Quotes
- “They’re just so ridiculous.” — Alexei Ratmansky, Choreographer
- “They are physically galvanized: this is sophisticated dancing at its peak, an achievement we should not underestimate.” — Critic on "The Wind-Up."
What's Next: Future Directions for N.Y.C.B.
As the New York City Ballet continues to explore innovative themes and styles, upcoming performances may further challenge traditional narratives within the ballet community. The reception of these premieres could influence future programming and the direction of both Ratmansky and Peck's artistic endeavors.
