The Sleeping Beauty

Ben Stevenson, Artistic Director of Houston Ballet (1976-2003), transformed the company into one of the largest and most respected in the U.S. He choreographed iconic works like Swan Lake and Romeo & Juliet, and nurtured generations of world-class dancers.

In 1967, Stevenson launched his career as a choreographer when he staged his first, and highly successful, production of The Sleeping Beauty for English National Ballet. His production starred Margot Fonteyn as Aurora.

Ben Stevenson assumed his role as artistic director of Houston Ballet in 1976 and in September of 1978 brought his Sleeping Beauty to Jones Hall for the first time. Stevenson’s 1978 Sleeping Beauty featured designs by British designer Peter Farmer.

Farmer is a renowned British set and costume designer, known for his work in ballet, opera, and theater. His designs have graced prestigious companies worldwide, earning him numerous accolades for his artistic contributions.

After the opening of Houston’s Wortham Theater Center in 1986, Stevenson reworked his Sleeping Beauty for the new stage featuring designs by Desmond Heeley. This latest version of Sleeping Beauty premiered in May 1990 and has been performed for over 35 years.  

Heeley was a renowned designer who collaborated with Ben Stevenson on iconic productions for Houston Ballet, including his versions of Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. His acclaimed set and costume designs are recognized worldwide.