Wu-Tang Clan mastermind RZA leaped into new territory when he released his first orchestral, “A Ballet Through Mud,” this summer. Now, the hip-hop legend is bringing the album to life with a free live performance on Nov. 4 at the Los Angeles Theater.
The show made its grand ballet debut in 2023 with the help of the Colorado Symphony , which performed on the studio album. Composed and scored by RZA, “A Ballet Through Mud” is billed as a dynamic coming-of-age story that delves into the complexities of life, friendship and personal growth. Featuring characters named for Greek musical scales, the composition traces his own journey from Staten Island project housing to performing at concert halls.
“After two nights of standing ovations, we saw that the music and dances were transformative and inspiring,” says RZA, who produced the soundtracks for films including Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill” volumes 1 and 2. “I’m over-elated for the chance to share ‘A Ballet through Mud’ with the L.A. audience, and I look forward to more audiences getting a chance to experience it.”