Rosin Box Project’s Ghost Light Masquerade invites San Diego audiences on stage

The Rosin Box Project, a contemporary ballet company based in Liberty Station, is presenting its immersive Halloween production, Ghost Light Masquerade, starting October 22. The show features masked dancers performing among masked audience members, who are encouraged to roam the stage and sometimes become part of the performance, according to the Times of San Diego.

Artistic director and CEO Carly Topazio described the production as a favorite among the dancers and noted that it offers a unique experience unlike traditional ballet performances where audiences remain seated. The show will run for seven performances at The Nocturne Theatre, closing the company’s season.

Topazio founded The Rosin Box Project in 2018 with a focus on creating new contemporary ballet works rather than staging classical repertory. The company has commissioned over 60 new pieces and provides a platform for resident and guest choreographers to innovate and explore the art form.

Topazio, originally from Boston, moved to San Diego about 12 years ago to dance with City Ballet and decided to stay, praising the city’s appeal for artists. She emphasized the company’s mission to focus on the core love of ballet by stripping away unnecessary elements.