Posts Tagged ‘Reviews’

Sightings: Regina Opera, “Carmen”

Saturday, June 26th, 2010
WendyChu in "Carmen" (Regina Opera)

WendyChu in "Carmen" (Regina Opera)

The Brooklyn Daily Eagle says, “The principal dancers, Wendy Chu partnered by Nolan McKew were magical…” in this performance of Carmen by the Regina Opera. 

Read the full review here.

Photo © Brooklyn Daily Eagle 2010

Wendy is wearing Class Act Tutus’ Sweetheart Bodice with Nude inset in “Amethyst” with a Color-Layered Romantic Tutu skirt in:  Dusty Rose, Wine and Eggplant

Review: Pacific Northwest Ballet’s 3 By Dove

Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010

My first “Dove” experience this past Saturday greatly exceeded all my expectations. (And when it comes to Pacific Northwest Ballet, those expectations are already high!)

Not only was the dancing superb but the energy, the emotion, the raw edgy element that pulsated throughout the entire performance was, in a word, spectacular.

In 3 By Dove (+ 1 By Quijada), PNB takes on three unique works by the late Ulysses S. Dove–Vespers, Red Angels, and Serious Pleasures; plus a commissioned piece created by Victor Quijada titled, Suspension of Disbelief. The result is a fiery, hypnotic blend of movement coupled with elegant lines and feverish energy.

Vespers

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carrie Imler and soloist Lindsi Dec in Ulysses Dove’s Vespers.  Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carrie Imler and soloist Lindsi Dec in Ulysses Dove’s Vespers. Photo © Angela Sterling.

In Vespers, Dove pays homage to his grandmother and the small wooden building where she met with other ladies to pray. The cast is comprised of six female dancers dressed in long black skirts. The dancers alternately sit and stand on, step off, and whirl around a row of wooden chairs with punctuated staccato rhythm and dizzying pace. While a necessary prop, the chairs also seem to provide a visual anchor for these “praying ladies”, keeping them earthbound amidst their heavenly communion.

Red Angels

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancers Ariana Lallone and Olivier Wevers in Ulysses Dove’s Red Angels. Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancers Ariana Lallone and Olivier Wevers in Ulysses Dove’s Red Angels. Photo © Angela Sterling.

While Vespers provided a good first inning, Red Angels knocked the proverbial ball out of the park. The talented quartet of dancers: Laura Gilbreath, Carrie Imler, Seth Orza and Jordan Pacitti paired with electric violinist extraordinaire, Mary Rowell grabbed the audience’s attention and held onto it like a vice grip.

The dancers clad in gleaming red unitards, performed with a fierce inner fire. These “celestial beings” exuded all the athleticism, drama and sauciness I’ve come to expect from the likes of PNB.

Gilbreath’s performance was vivacious and filled with a contagious exuberance. Imler’s interpretation was clean, deliberate–perfect. But when it comes to articulating the bridled power exhibited by both Orza and Pacitti…well, let’s just say there aren’t enough adjectives to describe its splendor! The pair was nothing short of outstanding.  (In fact, I’m still in awe over Pacitti’s balance in arabesque!)

Suspension of Disbelief

 

 

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Jonathan Porretta in Victor Quijada’s Suspension of Disbelief.  Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Jonathan Porretta in Victor Quijada’s Suspension of Disbelief. Photo © Angela Sterling.

Suspension of Disbelief is a heady mix of intense, slow motion hip hop-esque moves melting into a balletic fondue. Eleven dancers rise and fall against one another; pushing, pulling, catching, falling, bouncing, rolling. The piece felt hauntingly reminiscent of sea foam as it rises and breaks along the waves of the ocean. Notable mentions include Lucien Postlewaite’s gorgeous fluidity combined with Olivier Wevers‘ commanding strength in a poetic pas de deux; Lindsi Dec’s leggy extensions and impeccable control; to finally Chalnessa Eames‘ stubborn, sexy quality wrapped up in a petite package.

Serious Pleasures

Last but not least was Serious Pleasures. Now this is the work everyone will be talking about for many seasons to come! Set against a backdrop of what resembled a barely lit department store changing room with mounted sets of parallel bars in between each shuttered door, Serious Pleasures is wrought with carnal satisfaction and devastation. Each of the nine dancers–Jonathan Porretta, Chalnessa Eames, Rachel Foster, Kylee Kitchens, Sarah Ricard Orza, Barry Kerollis, Jermome Tisserand, Benjamin Griffiths and Seth Orza–showcased their talents in a steamy, uninhibited performance filled with plenty of hair tossing and pulsating hip action.

I found the lighting to be especially impressive, as the majority of the piece was cast in gorgeous silhouette. Later, the lighting provided a provocative adult nightclub effect as the women danced erotically behind their closed “changing room” doors. Additional performance highlights include an exquisite candle lit pas de deux between Seth Orza and Sarah Ricard Orza, and Jonathan Porretta’s portrayal of a man torn between craving what is morally right vs. succumbing to the gutturally instinctual.

With 3 By Dove (+1 by Quijada), Pacific Northwest Ballet has successfully raised the bar of artistic excellence and cultural relevance. Somewhere in the heavens above, Mr. Dove is looking down and smiling…

by Denise Opper, Media Relations Class Act Tutu & Vala Dancewear

All photos © Angela Sterling.

3 by Dove continues March 25-28 at McCaw Hall, Seattle.  Tickets Pacific Northwest Ballet.

 

 

 

Review: Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty

Monday, February 8th, 2010

What a gorgeous evening! There are simply not enough adjectives to describe the splendor of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s The Sleeping Beauty.  This outstanding company of dancers whisks its audience deep into the heart of this beloved fairy tale, thrilling and delighting both young and old alike.
The scenery and costumes  designed by Peter Docherty are lush, vibrant and visually delicious. Enchanted foliage moves to ensconce the royal castle. Costumes shimmer and sparkle with life of their own. Aurora’s bower is delicately ornate and enveloped in a golden beam of light.

The Christening

The opening Christening Scene exceeded all expectations. Otto Neubert (King Florimund) and Victoria McFall (the Queen) are poised experts of their craft. Their characterization is well-established and believable.
The seven enchanted fairies and their cavaliers were dazzlingly  in sync. The Cavaliers, with their impressive turns and jumps, were thrilling to watch. The fairies were perfectly cast, each bringing their own unique style and interpretation to the role. Most memorable solos include Lindsi Dec’s (Fairy of Wit) spunky finger pointing and skillful pointe work, and Chalnessa Eames‘ (Fairy of Generosity) charming, slightly coquettish performance.

The Lilac Fairy

Carrie Imler’s  interpretation was not only masterful, but exhibited a profound sense of strength under control. I got the distinct impression that Lilac could’ve really given old Carabosse a swift kick in the skirt, but chose not to because that wouldn’t be very ladylike. Their relationship seems tethered by a delicate wisp of a truce; “I will only allow you to go so far,” Lilac’s penetrating gaze warns.
Imler’s port de bras were gorgeous and fluid; her grace extending all the way through her fingertips. Her expressions were soft but commanding; her movement precise yet poetic. Imler’s Lilac seemed to care deeply about all those within her domain, and their allegiance to her was not without cause.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carla Körbes as the Lilac Fairy with her attendants, puts the kingdom under a sleeping spell in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty.  Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carla Körbes as the Lilac Fairy with her attendants, puts the kingdom under a sleeping spell in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty. Photo © Angela Sterling.

Carabosse

Jonathan Poretta’s portrayal of this devilish fairy was dramatic, powerful and just plain fun. Everything from his grand, swooping entrance accompanied by the sound of crashing cymbals and stark flashes of light, to the fiendish ways in which he lashes out over not being invited to the celebration was absolutely superb! Carabosse may be profoundly wicked, but she is still no match for the Lilac Fairy’s power. One moment, Carabosse is whirling feverishly about, her cackling laughter almost audible. The next, she is cowering on the floor under Lilac’s quietly dominating presence.  I was almost sorry she was stabbed to death by the heroic Prince in the end.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Olivier Wevers as the evil Carabosse, and principal dancer Carla Körbes as the Lilac Fairy in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty.  Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Olivier Wevers as the evil Carabosse, and principal dancer Carla Körbes as the Lilac Fairy in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty. Photo © Angela Sterling.

Princess Aurora

With her delicate phrasing and uncanny ability to channel the emotions of a sixteen year old Princess, Mara Vinson has secured her place as a legendary ballerina. During the famous Rose Adagio, Vinson was unfathomably brilliant. Her balance was spot-on as she greeted each of the four Dukes; her supple back hinted of the beautiful woman our heroine is to become, and her developpes unfurled toward the sky. Last but not least, those fantastic poissons (fish dives)with the Dukes and later, the Prince, were nothing short of extraordinary. Indeed, Vinson’s performance left many viewers gasping with excitement.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Mara Vinson as Aurora, with company dancers in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty.  Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Mara Vinson as Aurora, with company dancers in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty. Photo © Angela Sterling.

The Prince

Yet where would our lovely heroine be without her handsome Prince? Seth Orza proved his mettle by meeting the challenges of this highly demanding ballet. Orza starts out as a dashing, slightly aloof young man who quickly becomes enraptured by the girl of his dreams (literally). He begs the Lilac Fairy to show him where she can be found, a request which the benevolent fairy is only too happy to oblige. Orza’s characterization is rich and articulate; his strength and power–sheer bliss. When he finally kills the wicked Carabosse then leans in to kiss his beloved Aurora, you have to literally stop yourself from cheering.

The Wedding

The third act of this ballet is filled with some of the most well-known and cherished variations. The Gold and Silver Pas de Trois, featuring Lindsi Dec, Andrew Bartee and Lucien Postlewaite was refreshing, effortless and commanding. I was duly impressed with how well Dec’s strength and beautiful lines held their own against Bartee’s and Postlewaite’s esteemed technical prowess and bold execution.
The Bluebirds (Rachel Foster and Benjamin Griffiths) were absolutely stunning.  Griffiths shined with his jaw-dropping leaps and jumps, while Foster’s fluttering movements provided a sense of harmony and balance.
Red Riding Hood and the Wolf (Abby Relic and Jerome Tisserand) was mildly sinister yet extremely charming. I heard more than a few giggles emanating from the children in attendance.
However, it was the humorous dance between Puss in Boots (Jordan Pacitti) and the White Cat (Sarah Ricard Orza) that really got the audience’s attention.  This talented duo made the most convincing pair of sparring felines imaginable. Pacitti was the ever-determined suitor vying for Ricard Orza’s finicky feline affections; Ricard Orza transformed herself into the most feisty little kitty cat, holding Pacitti at arm’s–or claw’s–length. After multiple strikeouts, Pacitti finally decides to give Ricard Orza the gift no kitty in her right mind can resist; a tasty mouse!

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Seth Orza and principal dancer Mara Vinson as Prince Florimund and Princess Aurora in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty.  Photo © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Seth Orza and principal dancer Mara Vinson as Prince Florimund and Princess Aurora in Ronald Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty. Photo © Angela Sterling

Conclusion

By taking on this technically demanding ballet and performing with aplomb, Pacific Northwest Ballet has once again proven itself worthy of the highest of accolades. The dancers enamored the audience with their incandescent performance and spawned a new generation of wistful Auroras!

by Denise Opper, Media Relations Class Act Tutu & Vala Dancewear

All photos © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet performs Ronal Hynd’s The Sleeping Beauty

February 4 – 14, 2010


Review: Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Nutcracker

Tuesday, December 1st, 2009

A Little Bit of Magic

The magic of the holiday season has descended upon McCaw Hall, ushered in on the wings of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s annual treat, The Nutcracker.  The air inside the theater was alive with anticipation, and the excitement emanating from all the hundreds of children present was palpable.

Clara's Christmas Tree - A signature moment of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker occurs when Clara’s Christmas tree grows from 14 to 28 feet.  The majestic tree was constructed by Boeing engineers and weighs 1,000 pounds.

Clara's Christmas Tree - A signature moment of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker occurs when Clara’s Christmas tree grows from 14 to 28 feet. The majestic tree was constructed by Boeing engineers and weighs 1,000 pounds.

The Story and the Set

The ballet is based on the original story written by E.T.A. Hoffman and brought to life by the choreography of former PNB Artistic Director, Kent Stowell.  The sumptuous sets designed by Maurice Sendak (Where the Wild Things Are) play a crucial role in the success of this stellar production.  They not only envelop the stage like a lush, Victorian picture book, but also provide a sense of pure magic.  Everything from the massive growing Christmas tree and the enormous Mouse King that wickedly encircles the stage–to the realistic boat ride along the sea, leaves audiences captivated and riveted to the edge of their seats.

Clara

The role of young Clara was marvelously played by PNB student, Eileen Kelly.  Kelly’s mannerisms and characterization were both impressive and believable.

Carrie Imler , Principal Dancer, PNB, as adult Clara was nothing short of outstanding.  Imler’s Clara provides a stunning portrayal of a maiden whose heart is laced with the charms and emotions of girlhood.  She is her Prince’s devoted equal in terms of bravery, and wants nothing more than to remain locked within the confines of this beautiful dream with him forever.

The Prince

Batkhurel Bold, Principal Dancer, PNB, gave a powerful performance as the dashing Prince.  His movements were breathtaking, his character regal and confident.  Bold not only captivates audiences with his impressive strength, but sweeps them off their feet as Clara’s faithful protector, companion, and hero.  Their gorgeous, sweeping pas de deux conveys all the beauty and promise of young love.

A Cast of Characters

Herr Drosselmeier/Pasha

Jordan Pacitti shines in the dual role of Herr Drosselmeier/Pasha.  As Drosselmeier, Pacitti is teasing yet harmless, a classic example of a man who is “a little boy on the inside.”  He not only revels in his ability to shock and amaze the party guests, but takes the most delight in getting a rise out of young Clara.  Later, however,  as the Pasha, Pacitti transforms from a fiendish eccentric, into a protective father-figure, possessive of both Clara and her affections.

Ballerina Doll

Sarah Ricard Orza gave a lovely performance as the wind-up Ballerina Doll.  Her masterful display breathed new life into this well-loved character, one who is sure to star in many little girls’ dreams.

An Enchanted Land

The Moors, A Chinese Tiger, The Commedia

Act Two whisks Clara and the Prince along to an enchanted land where they are greeted by a lavish display of hospitality, courtesy of the Pasha.  Moors dance about with bright, energetic flair.  A dancing Chinese tiger, charmingly played by Ryan Cardea, received more than a few giggles and squeals of delight.  The Commedia (Liora Reshef, Benjamin Griffiths and Rachel Foster) were reminiscent of a precious music box or toy shoppe window.  Griffiths’ acrobatics and technical prowess were evident both here and during his role as Sword-Dancer Doll in Act One.

The Chinese Tiger

The Chinese Tiger

The Peacock

Lesley Rausch, soloist, PNB mesmerized in her role as the fluttering, sensuous Peacock; a winged beauty transported via gilded cage.  Rausch’s expert characterization was daring, captivating, and hypnotic.

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Lesley Rausch as the Peacock in PNB's Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker.  Photo © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Lesley Rausch as the Peacock in PNB's Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker. Photo © Angela Sterling

The Whirling Dervishes

The three whirling Dervishes (Barry Kerollis, James Moore, and Josh Spell) were absolutely thrilling. These fantastic dancers created a spectacular “tour de force” that left every little boy in the audience inspired and awe-struck.

Flora

Lindsi Dec, soloist, PNB,  soared to new heights as the beautiful blossom maiden, Flora.  Dec gave herself completely over to her role, and that coupled with her long, gorgeous lines and jubilant expression, made her performance exhilarating to behold.

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Lindsi Dec as Flora in the Waltz of the Flowers from PNB's Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker.  PNB’s acclaimed production of Nutcracker runs November 27 – December 30, 2009 at Seattle Center’s McCaw Hall.  Tickets are available online at www.pnb.org or by calling 206.441.2424. Photo © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Lindsi Dec as Flora in the Waltz of the Flowers from PNB's Stowell/Sendak Nutcracker. Photo © Angela Sterling

Snow, Waltz of the Flowers

PNB’s corps de ballet performed beautifully as a chorus of swirling, icy snowflakes glittering in the moonlight. Their dazzling display literally made a chill run down my spine.  Later during the Waltz of the Flowers, I could almost smell a hint of jasmine and rose being carried along on a soft, spring breeze.

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s, Nutcracker

I was once again impressed with the caliber of dancing and characterization offered by this amazing company, as well as the talent that exuded from its students.  Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Nutcracker is a must-see and should be a part of every family’s holiday tradition.

PNB’s acclaimed production of Nutcracker

runs November 27 – December 30, 2009

at Seattle Center’s McCaw Hall.

Tickets are available online at www.pnb.org or by calling 206.441.2424

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s “Director’s Choice”

Friday, November 6th, 2009

From the theater staff to the attendees to the performers, the excitement of opening night was unmistakable.  Pacific Northwest Ballet’s introduction of two brand new pieces and a replay of two favorites translated into an evening to remember.

Petite Mort

Seth&SaraPetiteMort

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist Seth Orza and corps de ballet dancer Sarah Ricard Orza in the PNB premiere of Jiri Kylian’s Petite Mort, presented as part of DIRECTOR’S CHOICE, running November 5 – 15, 2009. Photo © Angela Sterling.

The night began with Petite Mort, (French for “The Little Death” and a metaphor for sexual climax), the first work by European choreographer Jiri Kylian to be acquired by Pacific Northwest Ballet.  With six men, six women, and six foils the piece has been described as exuding energy, silence, and sexuality.  It does just that.

Petite Mort starts with six men facing upstage backing slowly toward the orchestra pit in silence.  The stillness is broken at first only by the sound of the swords cutting through the air.  The men partnering with their swords create a dangerous tension and excitement.  The choreography plays between the men, the swords, the women and dark, baroque style dresses.  These dresses, at times, appear to dance completely on their own.  There are some light hearted moments with the foils and the dresses that allowed the audience a laugh and provided a needed respite.

A special treat in this performance included partnering between two of the company’s married couples:  Seth Orza and Sarah Ricard Orza and Lindsi Dec and Karel Kruz.  In the sensual pas de deux, these real-life married couples, along with principal dancers Lucien Postlewaite and Kaori Nakamura, showcased both precision in movement as well as emotion.

I look forward to more pieces from this brilliant choreographer.

The music (Mozart’s Piano Concerto in A Major – Adagio and Piano Concerto in C Major – Andante) also warrants special mention.  With the resignation of Maestro Stewart Kershaw, Allan Dameron is acting Music Director and Conductor.  Dameron performed masterfully as both pianist and conductor for this piece.

Mopey

JamesMooreMopey3

Pacific Northwest Ballet soloist James Moore in Marco Goecke’s Mopey, presented as part of PNB’s DIRECTOR’S CHOICE program, November 5 – 15, 2009. Photo © Angela Sterling.

This 14-minute male solo of “adolescent meltdown” was first performed by PNB in 2005.  The cult classic, performed by soloist, James Moore was pure perfection.

Moore’s fluidity of movement demonstrated both his raw strength and masculine grace.  The agony of the journey from boy to man with all of the temptations and mistakes made along the way was nothing short of mesmerizing.

For three perspectives on Mopey, see seattledances blog interview with James Moore and two other dancers cast for this run, Soloist Benjamin Griffiths and Principal, Jonathan Poretta.

The Seasons

This was the world premiere of The Seasons, choreographed by Val Caniparoli.  The Seasons is a balletic allegory of the four seasons danced to the music of Alexander Glazunov (Op.67, 1899).  The Seasons is served up against a simple and very striking set and presented with innovative costume design.  Both set and costumes were designed by Sandra Woodall.  I cannot even begin to describe the brilliance in executing these costume design concepts.  Check out this video posted by PNB as a special thanks to the costume shop for a taste:  PNB’s The Seasons Costume Preview.

The Seasons opened in winter  and it appeared that it was snowing stars.  Thus the magical blend of contemporary and classical ballet began.  There were delightful gnomes lighting fires to melt the snow and change the scene to spring.  Kaori Nakamura as the Swallow truly took flight—both on her own and with the aid of the Zephyr, Lucien Postlewaite.  You could see the fun and frolic in Barry Kerolis as a faun.   With its cast of birds, satyrs, fauns, flowers and gnomes, this piece has something for everyone.

West Side Story

West Side Story is an abbreviated version of the musical of the same name.  Choreographer Jerome Robbins (along with Peter Genarro) extracted this sequence of dances originally for the New York City Ballet in 1995.

This piece is just plain fun and allows the dancers to try their hand at singing and showing off a completely different style.  Principal, Carla Körbes was a delight as the spunky, Anita seeming to be transformed both in looks (her blonde hair covered in a dark wig) and technique.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carla Körbes (center) with Company dancers in Jerome Robbins’ West Side Story Suite. Photo © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Carla Körbes (center) with Company dancers in Jerome Robbins’ West Side Story Suite. Photo © Angela Sterling.

PNB’s Director’s Choice runs from November 5–15, 2009.

Don’t miss it!

All photos  © Angela Sterling.

Pacific Northwest Ballet’s “Roméo et Juliette”

Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Kaori Nakamura and soloist James Moore in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette.  Photo © Angela Sterling

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Kaori Nakamura as "Juliet" and soloist James Moore as "Romeo" in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette. All Photos © Angela Sterling

I recently had the privilege of viewing the matinee performance of Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Roméo et Juliette.   I was prepared to be delighted and entertained, being a tremendous fan of PNB already.   However, I must admit I was not prepared for the high caliber of dancing coupled with such flawless character interpretation as this.

The PNB dancers breathed new life into Jean-Christophe Maillot’s intricate adaptation.   From the moment I saw actual credits rolling across the screen, I knew this would be no ordinary ballet with a modern twist.   This was history in the making.

The scrawling black and white credits soon gave way to sets that were clean, pure and abstract.   The lighting played a greater role than I’d seen in the past, able to change the entire feel of a scene from a misty dream-like state one minute, to a cold starry night the next.

The dancers were so in tune with their characters, you easily became lost in the performance.

Kaori Nakamura’s Juliette was young, fresh and a bit of a “spoiled, wild child”.   From “flashing” her nurse (bad girl!), to her refusal to obey her Mother’s wishes and marry Paris, Nakamura successfully channels all the feisty rebelliousness of the teen years.  This is Nakamura’s first time performing as Juliette, and she beautifully exceeds all expectations.

James Moore’s Romeo is everything you’d expect from a bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks.  He’s playful, rambunctious, headstrong, and a bit of a show-off, especially with the ladies.  Yet for all his flaws, Moore’s Romeo was a character you couldn’t help but fall in love with.

Olivier Weavers did a superb job as Friar Laurence. As both a silent narrator and active participant to this tragedy, his performance is raw and heartbreaking; his anguish palpable. He is forever trapped in a nightmare of his own making, desperate for forgiveness that will never come.

Equally magnificent was the athleticism of the Friar’s two Acolytes, played by Jordan Pacitti and Sean Rollofson.  So much of their movement was done in slow, exaggerated motion: the turns, lifts, and carefully executed rolls off the stage were riveting and poetic.

Principal dancer, Olivier Weavers as "Friar Lawrence" with the two Acolytes (Jordan Pacitti and Jerome Tisserand

Principal dancer, Olivier Weavers as "Friar Lawrence" with the two Acolytes (Jordan Pacitti and Jerome Tisserand

Her Nurse, expertly played by Chalnessa Eames, was clearly outwitted–and at times overwhelmed–by her young charge’s antics. Although the Nurse’s movements were silly and comedic, they carried an undertone of seriousness to her tasks at hand. There was no question regarding her devotion to Juliette.

Mara Vinson’s Lady Capulet was simply magnificent. From the moment she came into view she exuded superior control and confidence. Every inch the powerful matriarch, Vinson gave a performance so compelling I couldn’t take my eyes off of her.

Seth Orza was a very convincing Tybalt. He successfully conveyed his character’s anger, sense of family pride, and deep loathing of the Montague’s. His movements were commanding, intimidating, and breath-taking.

Mercutio and Benvolio played by Barry Kerollis and Josh Spell, round out the obnoxious Montague bunch. They live to aggravate and annoy the Capulets, most especially Tybalt. They played their roles as troublesome, arrogant pests with a hint of boyish foolishness, to the fullest.

Jeffrey Stanton’s portrayal of Paris was perfect. He was quiet, unassuming, gentlemanly; a stark contrast from Tybalt and Romeo.

Lesley Rausch played a sexy, sassy Rosaline. Her character is well-aware of her beauty and uses it to full advantage.

Story Highlights

The attraction between Romeo and Juliette was undeniably beautiful. The Balcony scene served as an exquisite moment of foreplay, aching with longing. Their wedding was simple and elegant; their wedding night resonating with passion and joy. It was in that moment that Juliette became the pursuer, with her Romeo succumbing to her charms. Watching these two, I couldn’t help but feel as though I was witnessing pure magic.

With the dramatic fight scene at the end of Act II, the audience is suddenly catapulted into the midst of Friar Laurence’s nightmare. Like one possessed, he digs his fingers into the set as it moves eerily across the floor, trying in vain to stop the next chain of events.The terror unfolds in slow motion as the distraught Friar

Principals Bakturel Bold and Jonathan Poretta

Principal Dancers Bakturel Bold (Tybalt) and Jonathan Poretta (Mercutio)

Laurence watches on in agony. This is the moment he was dreading. This is the moment when everything falls apart.

As the action resumes normal speed, the brutality and its aftermath hit you full-force. Lady Capulet flails about in a wild rage, her grief unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Paris must half-carry, half-drag her away from Tybalt’s lifeless form. Her heart takes another devastating blow with the loss of her daughter. She bitterly clings to the walls as if to say, “Take me now! I can’t bear this any longer!” As a mother, you feel her cries echo through your heart as she doubles over repeatedly in anguish. Yet her reaction is nothing compared to Romeo’s. As we know, Friar Laurence’s letter has not reached him in time. Romeo cannot—will not—bear this excruciating loss.

As Juliette awakens from her slumber and discovers that her cherished Romeo is no more, you feel her gut-wrenching loss. Her body is wracked with sobs, her horrified expression crying out, “This was not how it was supposed to be!”

Unable to bear the scene before him, Friar Laurence turns his back toward the grief-stricken Juliette and clings to the wall in shame and helplessness. Juliette then strangles herself and gently falls across her beloved’s body.

Conclusion

I was absolutely enthralled by this performance. It was magical, poignant, thrilling, devastating and beautifully complex. The dancer’s dramatic expressions, the careful subtleties of movement, and the striking character development work together to provide a rich, new layer to this Shakespearean tragedy. I’m so thankful to Peter Boal for adding this production to the company’s repertoire.

What may have initially felt like a bold move to my “classically inclined” mind, the performance left me with an even deeper respect for PNB as a whole. This is a company that is clearly up to any challenge a choreographer or director may throw their way.

My co-worker and companion on this trip, Lisa-Marie, also found the performance captivating. In fact, this was her first time ever seeing a ballet so I’ll let her reaction speak for itself: “I am spoiled for life! I can never see another ballet again without comparing it to Romeo et Juliette.”

Run—do not walk—to McCaw Hall and get your tickets to see Pacific Northwest Ballet’s Romeo et Juliette. You will not be disappointed.

By Denise Opper

Media Relations: Vala Dancewear/Class Act Tutu All Photos © Angela Sterling

James Moore and Kaori Nakamura Romeo et Juliette

Pacific Northwest Ballet principal dancer Kaori Nakamura as "Juliet" and soloist James Moore as "Romeo" in Jean-Christophe Maillot’s Roméo et Juliette.

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