Stars and Stripes

A plotless "balletic parade" that stages Balanchine's affection for his adopted country as pure dance rather than narrative. Four costumed "regiments" - two of women, one of men, and a mixed pas de deux couple nicknamed "Liberty Bell" and "El Capitan" - take turns performing drilling, marching, and majorette-inspired steps built from classical technique. Each section is set to a different John Philip Sousa march, arranged for orchestra by Hershy Kay. The ballet closes with all the regiments reassembling before a giant American flag in a full-company patriotic tableau.