George Gershwin’s unforgettable melodies are the vibrant foundation for the captivating dances and romantic moments in Balanchine’s choreography. But Who Cares about old songs? Balanchine clearly did, and his vision brought Gershwin’s classics to life in a dazzling new way.
Balanchine’s connection with George Gershwin began early in his career. In 1937, Gershwin invited Balanchine to Hollywood to collaborate on Goldwyn’s Follies (released in 1938). This project featured a memorable Romeo and Juliet scene, playfully contrasting ballet-dancing Montagues with tap-dancing Capulets in a mock duel. Decades later, in 1970, Balanchine revisited Gershwin’s genius, choreographing Who Cares? to sixteen Gershwin songs composed between 1924 and 1931. Instead of simply recreating a bygone era, Balanchine utilized these songs to embody a distinctly American energy, particularly the spirit of New York City. His choreography in Who Cares? bursts with the dynamism and exuberance of urban life.
Who Cares? is not just the intriguing title of a George Balanchine ballet set to Gershwin’s music; it’s also the name of a classic song penned by George and Ira Gershwin in 1931 for Of Thee I Sing. The term “classic” itself implies something of the highest quality, a standard of excellence that endures. While initially associated with masterpieces from ancient Greece and Rome, “classic” now extends to various fields, from boxing and horse racing to fashion and cocktails. Among America’s classic composers, figures like Stephen Foster, John Philip Sousa, and, of course, George Gershwin stand out. Even decades after their debut, Gershwin’s best songs retain a timeless freshness, much like a perfectly made martini – sharp, honest, refreshing, and impeccably crafted, with a subtle yet unmistakable kick. Time has not dulled the emotional resonance of these songs, nor diminished their immediate appeal. Though linked to the past, Gershwin’s melodies, when expertly sung or played, transcend their time, feeling both nostalgic and utterly present.
The Gershwins possessed a remarkable blend of sophistication and effortless charm, a mix of lightheartedness and keen insight. They understood and catered to the imaginative capacity of their audience, creating a body of work that remains untainted by empty rhetoric or manufactured sentimentality. Their ability to infuse deeply personal expression into universally popular music is a rare achievement. Fittingly, Balanchine chose to use these songs not as a sentimental throwback to a bygone era, but simply as exquisite melodies to accompany classic, pure, academic ballet. In Who Cares?, the choreography mirrors the music’s phrasing, dynamics, and emotional depth, creating a harmonious and profound artistic dialogue.
