Ballet
In the Night
Think of this as a companion piece to Dances at a Gathering, just darker and set at night. It is three couples, four Chopin nocturnes, and three very different takes on what being together actually feels like. Robbins keeps it simple on purpose and lets the relationships do the talking.
Fast facts
- Composer
- Frederic Chopin
- Choreographer
- Jerome Robbins
- Premiere
- 1970, New York City Ballet, New York
- Structure
- One act
- Running time
- approx 20 minutes
The story
A plotless work set to four Chopin nocturnes for solo piano, structured as three pas de deux for three different couples. Each duet shows a distinct stage or mood of love, from the fresh and tender to the turbulent and mature, before all three couples briefly meet at the end. It is intimate, nocturnal, and emotionally shaded rather than narrative.
What In the Night is famous for
- Its three contrasting couples
- A companion feel to Dances at a Gathering
- Chopin nocturnes played live onstage
- Its intimate, moonlit mood
Companies that perform In the Night
In the Night is in the repertoire of companies including New York City Ballet.
Good to know
Frequently Asked Questions
How is In the Night structured?
As three pas de deux for three couples, each danced to a Chopin nocturne, with all three couples coming together briefly at the close.
Is it connected to Dances at a Gathering?
The two are often paired because both are Robbins works set to solo Chopin piano music, though In the Night is darker and more nocturnal in mood.
Does it tell a story?
Not a literal one. Each duet suggests a different stage or temperament of a relationship without a specific plot.
Who composed In the Night?
In the Night was composed by Frederic Chopin.
How long is In the Night?
In the Night runs approx 20 minutes.