This weekend, the Madison Ballet will perform a new dance piece by artistic director Ja’Malik celebrating the centenary of George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue,” with musical participation by local jazz trio Mr. Chair. According to bassist Ben Ferris, the Madison Ballet originally asked pianist Jason Kutz to perform the solo piano version of Gershwin’s masterpiece along with the dancers. Kutz suggested including the full trio, and the resulting collaboration offers a creative re-working of this concert favorite. In a conversation with WORT’s Peter Haney, Ferris talked about the group’s creative process and the dynamics of collaboration with the Ballet. Included in the interview are brief selections from versions of “Rhapsody in Blue” by Leonard Bernstein and the Columbia Orchestra, Duke Ellington, and the pianist Hiromi. The program will also include performances of the Ballet’s “In Grief,” “Fragments of Hope,” and “Something to Remember You By,” along with the world premiere of a new dance piece by Richard Walters featuring local cellist Dan Barker playing music by composer Brandon Alley. Performances are Friday, September 27th through Sunday, September 29th.