Ansel Elgort is taking on a different role and is headed to the stage!
The 31-year-old actor is best known for his work on screen, but will now be making his professional dance debut in a production of Quadrophenia, A Rock Ballet, according to People.
Keep reading to find out more…
While this may be a surprise to some, Ansel is no stranger to the stage or to dancing, having trained in ballet and performed in musicals when he went to a performing arts school. He also showed off some moves in the 2021 movie musical West Side Story.
Quadrophenia, A Rock Ballet is based on The Who‘s 1973 album of the same name, written by the band’s musician Pete Townshend.
The upcoming production will take place at New York City Center and is set to feature choreography by Paul Roberts and direction by Rob Ashford.
Ansel will reportedly take on the role of “The Godfather.”
“Rock n’ Roll is not dead,” the actor shared in a statement. “I think it’s having a rebirth right now, downtown NYC you can hear electric guitars squealing through bar doors as people are hungry for live music. Even better, a rock ballet!”
“My roots are in ballet and theatre and to be able to return to the stage in The Who’s Quadrophenia rock ballet feels like a gift from the rock gods,” he continued. “Well, one of them himself, Pete Townshend already wrote me a note welcoming me on board, and I’m framing it.”
“I’m thrilled to welcome Ansel to Quadrophenia. The spirit of Rock n’ Roll was not just my generation. It’s every generation,” Pete said.
“I’ve always been very impressed with Ansel as an actor and knew about his training at School of American Ballet,” director Rob Ashford shared. “Quadrophenia seemed like a great opportunity to combine those two talents.”
Rising star Paris Fitzpatrick will take on the lead role of Jimmy.
Quadrophenia, A Rock Ballet will hold four performances, from November 14th to 16th, at New York City Center. Tickets can be purchased at NYCityCenter.org!
Last year, it was announced that Ansel would star in a new movie, survival thriller Faster Than Horses.
Source: justjared.com