Ballet Arizona production of ‘Frida’ brings Kahlo’s story to life

Mexican artist Frida Kahlo's legacy lives on 70 years after her death — not just on the walls of museums and at her iconic blue house in Mexico City — but in popular culture in the form of films, merchandise and even a ballet.

"Frida," a full-length ballet about the artist, will enjoy its U.S. premiere in a production by Ballet Arizona at Symphony Hall Feb. 13 to 17.

"Frida" began in 2016 as "Broken Wings," a one-act performance choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa. In 2020, she was asked to create a full-length version for the Dutch National Ballet; "Frida" includes portions of "Broken Wings" in addition to plenty of new choreography.

The result is a production that dazzles visually, says Ballet Arizona Director of Marketing Averi Gutierrez.

“Some of the dancers have been calling it a ‘visual feast’, and I love that, because it’s absolutely on point,” she says. “This is truly a visual feast, and we’re encouraging people to see it more than once because there’s so much to take in. From the handpainted murals to the intricate, handcrafted costumes, every detail has been meticulously designed to create an unforgettable spectacle.”

Ochoa, a Belgian-Colombian choreographer with over 100 works to her name, masterfully translates Kahlo’s artistic vision into the language of ballet. The production also features a vibrant score by British composer Peter Salem, known for his work in film and theater. For "Frida," Salem masterfully blends traditional Mexican music with contemporary compositions. Dutch designer Dieuweke van Reij has crafted elaborate costumes and set designs, ensuring the performance embodies the richness of Kahlo’s visual artistry. Expansive sets adorned with intricate, large-scale paintings are being constructed locally in Arizona, and costumes, featuring delicate embroidery and ombre dyeing, are sourced from designers worldwide.

In addition to Kahlo’s powerful themes, Frida captivates audiences with its stunning stagecraft.

“This is perhaps one of the most theatrical ballets I’ve ever seen,” Gutierrez says. “You see a lot of expression on faces, and a lot of characterization, so much so, that you almost forget there’s no dialogue. Everything is conveyed through bodies, movement, and dance."

The universal impact of Kahlo’s story adds profound depth to the performance, she adds.

“For many, Frida Kahlo represents resilience in the face of adversity. She used her art and passions to advocate for people and celebrate her culture. And to take pride in her heritage. Today, that sense of cultural pride isn’t always easy to hold onto, and I think that’s a part of what continues to draw people to Frida. Her story is relevant and inspiring.”

"Frida" will be performed at Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Thursday; 7:30 p.m. Friday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday; and 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for the show are available now at balletaz.org or by calling the Ballet Arizona box office at 602-381-1096.