Garrett Ammon Redefines Ballet with ‘Agent Romeo’

Photography by Amanda Tipton

Wonderbound, Denver’s intimate contemporary ballet company, is showcasing a modern perspective on “Romeo and Juliet” through March 9.

We all know the story of “Romeo and Juliet,” but in the newest show at Wonderbound, a clasic story written by William Shakespeare, takes a twist. The contemporary ballet company pushes boundaries through engaging ballet performances that are both modern and expertly choreographed and executed. The chemistry amongst the dancers is undeniable and with an array of props and costume changes, “Agent Romeo” is a must-see.

Ammon, Wonderbound’s Artistic Director since 2007, takes the audience through the drama of two lovers who can’t be together based on circumstance. Romeo, an FBI agent, is assigned to a case to uncover and arrest the leader of the mob. In a two-hour performance featuring group, duo and solo ballet numbers and showcasing the elegance of ballet combined with a humorous tone, Romeo finds himself in love with the daughter of the mafia kingpin. Ammon captivates the audience as the lovers are faced with the reality that being apart is not an option, yet being together is just as painful.

The beauty of the dancers illuminates the stage and each dancer takes on a character that truly brings Ammon’s elaborate and creative stories to life. It was awe-inspiring watching as Juliet’s best friend, the role of the Nurse for those familiar with Shakespeare’s original work, took on the persona of a confidant, hiding the relationship that neither the FBI nor Juliet’s family would approve of. With a vintage telephone booth as her home base, Ammon’s version of the Nurse puts on a spectacular performance.

A fellow FBI agent portrays the role of Mercutio and the audience can feel the powerful and devastating death that serves as the tipping point for the story of Romeo and Juliet. Ammon leaves the audience waiting for the ball to drop as Mercutio’s story unfolds, and the role in “Agent Romeo” takes shape as a female FBI agent, contributing to the modernization of the story.

Juliet’s parents and their selfish nature are on display as we watch how out of touch they are with their daughter’s desires. Tybalt is present as well, with knowledge of Romeo’s secret all along.

Shakespeare lovers, ballet enthusiasts and even those who do not fall in either category will find “Agent Romeo” to be a masterpiece. Coming from someone who has embarrassingly dozed off during a ballet performance before, Ammon’s shows are always something to forward to. Wonderbound itself is a unique Denver experience that elevates the city’s performing arts scene and allows modern ballet to come to life on a stage.

Located in an unassuming warehouse in Park Hill, Wonderbound really is Denver’s hidden gem. Leaving a show at the venue feels like you were invited to an exclusive performing arts experience due to the intimacy of the auditorium and the proximity of the seats to the stage. You can see the dancers sweat, hear their breaths and feel the story unfolding on stage as if you are one of the dancers yourself. The plot behind Ammon’s performances is complex, yet he continuously produces shows that transcend other ballet experiences and will keep the audience engaged for the entirety of the show, even with the absence of dialogue.

Attending a show at Wonderbound feels like being a member of a club that is invite-only. I emerge after feeling as if I just experienced performance art in its truest form, as if I am in a city that serves as a hub for performance art, say New York City or London, and just attended a ballet meant for only VIPs. I leave pondering the plot of the performance for days and eagerly waiting to see the next Garrett Ammon show.

“Agent Romeo” runs through March 9. Purchase tickets and check out upcoming shows at Wonderbound, including “Space Cowboy” that will run from May 8-18, 2025 and features a live band.