IN BALANCHINE'S CLASSROOM - Documentary on Ballet Choreographer George Balanchine Opens in September

George Balanchine teaching at the New York State Theater in Lincoln Center (circa 1964). Photo: Martha Swope. As seen in In Balanchine’s Classroom. A film by Connie Hochman. A Zeitgeist Films release in association with Kino Lorber.

George Balanchine teaching at the New York State Theater in Lincoln Center (circa 1964). Photo: Martha Swope. As seen in In Balanchine's Classroom. — George Balanchine teaching at the New York State Theater in Lincoln Center (circa 1964). Photo: Martha Swope. As seen in In Balanchine’s Classroom. A film by Connie Hochman. A Zeitgeist Films release in association with Kino Lorber.

In Balanchine’s Classroom, the documentary film on famed ballet choreographer George Balanchine by Connie Hochman, will open at Film Forum in New York City on September 17, and in Los Angeles at Laemmle Royal, Playhouse 7 and Town Center on September 24. Other cities will follow.

In Balanchine’s Classroom takes us back to the glory years of George Balanchine’s New York City Ballet through the remembrances of his former dancers and their quest to fulfill the vision of a genius. Opening the door to his studio, Balanchine’s private laboratory, they reveal new facets of the groundbreaking choreographer: taskmaster, mad scientist, and spiritual teacher.

Today, as his former dancers teach a new generation, questions arise: what was the secret of his teaching? Can it be replicated?

Filled with never before seen archival footage of Balanchine at work during rehearsals, classes, and in preparation for his most seminal works, along with interviews with many of his adored and adoring dancers and those who try to carry on his legacy today, this is Balanchine as you have never seen him, and a film for anyone who loves ballet and the creative process.

Watch the trailer for In Balanchine’s Classroom.