Effortlessly marrying contemporary ballet and jazz into an innovative, expressive and moving experience, Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal comes to Lakewood for the first time at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 26 with a program that includes "Harry" (2012), "Closer" (2012) and the world premiere of "Kosmos."
 
Les Ballets Jazz de Montréal (BJM) has been thrilling audiences since 1972 thanks to the enduring faith of original founder, Geneviève Salbaing, and co-founders Eva Von Gencsy and Eddy Toussaint. In 1998 Louis Robitaille was nominated artistic director, propelling BJM solidly forward toward the contemporary powerhouse it is today. While preserving the original essence of the company, BJM works with some of the most prestigious figures in the world of dance and contemporary ballet.
 
BJM's distinctive, captivating style is due to its commitment to allow each dancer to fully express his or her own identity. The company thrives on collaboration, and each dancer is given the opportunity to develop alongside internationally renowned creators who share their innovative ideas through creative residencies. Displaying a radiant and expressive style, BJM explores the creative side of contemporary trends, yet remains firmly committed to classical aesthetics. Making a conscious effort to remain accessible to any audience, BJM brings to the stage stunning, technically-exceptional works that virtually any level of dance enthusiast will enjoy.  
 
BJM has recently had the pleasure of collaborating with such well-known figures of contemporary dance as Crystal Pite (Vancouver), Rodrigo Pederneiras (of the Brazilian company Grupo Corpo), Mauro Bigonzetti (of the Italian company Aterballeto), Aszure Barton (New York), Cayetano Soto (Spain), Wen Wei Wang (Canada), Barak Marshall (Israel and USA) and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa (Amsterdam).

Tickets begin at $18 and are available at 303-987-7845, www.Lakewood.org/LCCPresents, at the Lakewood Cultural Center Box Office, 470 S. Allison Parkway (Wadsworth and West Alameda Avenue).
 
The 2014-2015 Lakewood Cultural Center Presents season is generously supported by the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD), with appreciation to the citizens of the Scientific and Cultural Facilities District, 5280 Magazine and the Denver Post Community, improving and enriching the lives of those in our community.