Audiences will soar with the powerful, uplifting and sultry Classic Contrast, Ballet Kelowna’s seventh season fall tour, coming to the SASCU Recreation Centre Friday, Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m.

The company has been receiving standing ovations and enthusiastic “Bravos” on its tour through the Okanagan and this stop in Salmon Arm is especially exciting as Crannog Ales has hopped on board to host a fun, new Ballet, Blues and Beer reception as part of the performance.

“What an amazing year for Ballet Kelowna,” says David La Hay, artistic director. “Not only will our fall program feature two world ballet premieres, but also our first Canadian music composition by renowned Kelowna pianist Arnold Draper and sung by Alexandra Babbel’s vocal ensemble Candesca.”

Inspired by sonnets and madrigals from William Shakespeare’s plays and choreographed by La Hay, In Arden Woods explores the rapturous fragility of Elizabethan love.

The music was recorded especially for the tour by Stu Goldberg in his Penticton studio.

Classic Contrast also features a new ballet by Paul Destrooper, artistic director of Ballet Victoria.

Le Banc is a whimsical look at young love and relationships set to the glorious Bach Cello Suites.

The technically demanding pas de trois from Swan Lake Act I, choreographed by the great classical choreographer Marius Petipa, displays the great tradition of classical technique and is always an audience favourite.

Allegro Per Tre, also danced in the classical tutu style, is a contemporary example of the wonderful ability of today’s young dancers to master the classic ballet technique.

In contrast, Vicki St.Denys’ sultry, blues jazz choreography, Indigo Moods is a passionate and sensual work that vibrantly showcases Ballet Kelowna’s signature inno-classical style.

Tickets for Classic Contrast are $15 to 35 and available at the recreation centre.

Ballet Kelowna’s mission is to inspire, educate and entertain through the energy and artistry of ballet. Named B.C. Touring Artist of the Year in 2008, Ballet Kelowna will be touring to 40 communities in the ’09/10 performance season.