danceviewtimes

The Test of Time

"Apollo", "Night", "The Sea Above, The Sky Below", "Paquita"
The National Ballet of Canada
Four Seasons Centre for the Performing Arts
Toronto, Canada 
March 1, 2019 

by Denise Sum
copyright © 2019 by Denise Sum

The National Ballet of Canada's winter mixed program featured an pleasing blend of old and new works, from the grand classical showpiece "Paquita" to the company premiere of Julia Adam's "Night". Artistic Director Karen Kain has a knack for putting together a well-rounded mixed program that makes for a satisfying evening of dance, giving a wide range of dancers their own moment to shine. 

Brendan Saye in "Apollo". Photo by Karolina Kuras. 

Other Worlds

"Prodigal Son", "Liebeslieder Walzer"
New York City Ballet
David H. Koch Theater
Lincoln Center
New York, New York
February 28, 2019

by Mary Cargill
copyright © 2019 by Mary Cargill

The typical image of a Balanchine ballet features an austere backdrop illuminating the dancers (in leotards or pastel shifts) and their glorious formations, but the February 28th performance showcased two Balanchine ballets whose sets and costumes created distinctive atmospheres.  Georges Rouault's stained glass glow helps give "Prodigal Son" the rooted, ritualistic feel of an ancient parable and David Mitchell's vision of Munich's Amalienburg pavilion sets "Liebeslieder Walzer" firmly in the nineteenth century German upper class, with its polite restraint and sophisticated manners.  Transcendent as Balanchine's plotless abstractions are, there is something magical about being transported via sets and costumes into another world.

Teresa Reichlen with Daniel Ulbricht in "Prodigal Son" photo © Paul Kolnik.