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Bunkamura Orchard Gala: Celebrating the Present and Future of Ballet

On October 12, 2025, Bunkamura presented the special event titled the "YGP Orchard Gala: Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow". This event was pivotal in highlighting the nexus between upcoming talents and established figures in the ballet world. Bunkamura, a multifaceted cultural and artistic hub in Shibuya, Tokyo, has been supported by various official suppliers since its inception in 1989, fueling its mission to foster and celebrate the arts.

A Day of Celebration and Achievement

The gala embraced a festive spirit, following the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) finals, which saw about 15,000 participants from across the globe. This was the first YAGP Japan event in 12 years, making it particularly special for everyone involved. The day commenced with the awards ceremony held in the Orchard Hall, and the gala performance later followed, establishing a continuity of joy and achievement.

The opening act featured "Grand Defilé", a cherished routine that brought together approximately 250 young dancers who practiced diligently for this moment. Freed from the competition's pressures, these children showcased their camaraderie and passion, receiving overwhelming applause from the audience. It was a stirring start, setting the stage for an extraordinary event.

International Performances Highlighting Cultural Excellence

Following the opening, the audience was treated to performances from prestigious ballet schools worldwide. The Royal Ballet School, known for producing renowned dancers like Tetsuya Kumakawa and Miyako Yoshida, captivated the audience with a pas de deux from Frederick Ashton’s "Rhapsody", exemplifying British ballet’s elegance and technique. The Princess Grace Academy's piece "Celestial Dust", previously performed at the Monaco National Day at the Osaka Kansai Expo, enchanted viewers with its delicate choreography, executed flawlessly by six talented students.

Additionally, past YGP winners presented "Graduation Ball" and a dynamic interpretation of "Le Corsaire"’s grand pas de trois, showcasing the diverse techniques and educational achievements of their respective schools. The first act of the gala brilliantly summarized the highlights of international ballet training and artistry.

Special Segments of Collaboration and Mastery

The second segment began with a special program featuring the renowned choreographer John Neumeier's work "Spring and Fall", performed by the esteemed ballet dancer Alexandre Ryabko along with students from the Hamburg Ballet School. Under Ryabko’s guidance, the dancers expressed Dvořák's music with depth, showcasing the beauty of transgenerational collaboration.

Next, audience favorite Keino Mei, currently dazzling at the Mariinsky Theatre, performed an exquisite version of "Giselle". Her graceful arms and agile footwork embodied the spirit of the character perfectly. Partnering with Dmitry Smirnovsky, principal dancer from the Bolshoi Ballet, who showcased astonishing haute jumps, created an unforgettable representation of Russian ballet.

The grand finale featured newcomer choreographer Shahal Binyamini's masterpiece, "Bolero X", where around 60 students from various international ballet schools, alongside the International Contemporary Ensemble (ICE), animated the entire stage to Ravel's music. This explosive performance enthralled the audience, leaving a lingering energy in the air and concluding the gala on an exhilarating note.

A Vision for the Future

This remarkable day illustrated the synergy between established stars and emerging talents. As the curtains fell, the energy from the performers and the audience was palpable in the Orchard Hall, embodying the bright future of the ballet community. It is hoped that the talented dancers showcased on this prestigious stage will shine as global stars in the future.

Bunkamura continues to invest in the initiative "Discover Future Stars", emphasizing the importance of cultivating young talents and supporting them through various programs that celebrate diversity in cultural expression.

Event Details

• - Title: YGP Orchard Gala: Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow
• - Date: October 12, 2025
• - Venue: Bunkamura Orchard Hall

Bunkamura remains dedicated to artistic development and will continue to create opportunities that inspire young and diverse individuals to explore their potentials through the arts.