Grand Marnier Partners with Future for an Innovative Ballet Experience
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Grand Marnier® teams up with multi-platinum hip-hop artist Future to present "DS2 REMIXED: THE BALLET." Scheduled for a one-night-only performance on September 19th, this unique production will reinterpret Future’s iconic DS2 album through the lens of contemporary ballet. The performance is choreographed by Emmy winner Ebony Williams, known for her groundbreaking contributions to dance, including her time with Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet and her role in Beyoncé’s "Single Ladies" music video.
A Cultural Convergence at BAM
The event will take place at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM), a cultural institution steeped in a 166-year legacy of fostering Black artistic expression. Grand Marnier’s choice of BAM reflects the venue’s evolution from classical to contemporary performances, paralleling the brand’s transition from a traditional cognac producer to a cultural innovator. "Bringing the Atlanta trap masterpiece to Brooklyn—home to hip-hop legends like Jay-Z and Biggie Smalls—creates a powerful convergence of regional hip-hop movements," said Future, emphasizing the shared revolutionary spirit among these artists.
A Transformative Experience
At the Howard Gilman Opera House, audiences will witness DS2 reimagined through the movements of world-class Black ballet performers. Acclaimed designer LaQuan Smith will provide custom costumes that blend high glamour with contemporary edge, enhancing the performance’s cultural fusion. “DS2 changed the game for me,” Future shared. “To see a mixtape I made turned into a ballet with Grand Marnier, right here in NYC? That’s different. That’s legendary.”
Community Engagement and Cultural Representation
This performance aims to be more than just an artistic collaboration. Ten percent of proceeds will benefit BAM’s Free Music Program, which provides free musical experiences for the local Brooklyn community, spotlighting global artists across genres. Mari Ogino, BAM’s Director of Corporate Strategy, praised the initiative: “This is the kind of bold work that truly excites us because it creates an organic opportunity for authentic engagement and audience cultivation.”
Sonia Lessuck Pirolo, Category Marketing Director for Cognacs and Champagnes at Campari America, highlighted the essence of this partnership: “Just as DS2 broke the mold of conventional rap a decade ago, Grand Marnier has always existed at the intersection of tradition and disruption.” This event encapsulates a cultural moment that honors both hip-hop and ballet while pushing creative boundaries.
Conclusion: A Landmark Event
The "DS2 REMIXED: THE BALLET" experience symbolizes a significant evolution in the music industry, merging two seemingly disparate forms of art. It not only celebrates the legacy of Future’s work but also reflects a broader cultural shift towards inclusivity and innovation in the arts. As audiences gather at BAM, they will witness a landmark performance poised to inspire future artistic endeavors and spark discussions about the fusion of music, dance, and cultural identity.
For those interested in experiencing this unique blend of hip-hop and ballet, further details and ticket information can be found through Grand Marnier and BAM’s official platforms.
