Michael Hing: Long Live the Hing will also be at The Comedy Store on Saturday, May 6.
Reviewed by Daniel Hepburn
dance
jewelry ★★★★
Opera House Joan Sutherland Theatre, through 20 May
In 1964, George Balanchine, known as the father of American ballet, moved his ballet company to Lincoln Center in New York City. Only problem: the venue is huge and expensive. In 1967, Balanchine combined business acumen and artistic genius to create the captivating jewelry Start — and pay off — a residency at Lincoln Center. The rest, as they say, is history.
After more than 50 years, jewelry It still captivates audiences thanks to Balanchine’s captivating vision. It’s as fresh and deep as it was on the day of its premiere, with each new performance uncovering previously hidden depths for audience and dancers alike.
jewelry There is no plot. But it doesn’t need one. It is divided into three acts and is named after three gemstones: emeralds, rubies and diamonds.In these parts, the ballet vividly evokes a different world: the mysterious green French forest emerald; Dazzling scarlet American cityscapes ruby; and the dazzling grandeur of Snow White Russia diamond.
Ako Kondo and Brett Chynoweth perform in The Australian Ballet’s Jewels.Credit: Renee Langtry
Each act is a tribute to a different ballet tradition that Balanchine knew and loved: the whimsical romanticism of French ballet, the brisk pace of New American Style, and the Russian Imperial classicism of his childhood.
Balanchine famously choreographed his ballets to suit individual dancers, which means it can be a challenge to teach certain roles without the dancers feeling the ghosts of famous artists past.But The Australian Ballet manages well with full direction – Balanchine repetiteur Sandra Jennings is flown in to teach jewelry – and smart casting options.
Sharni Spencer’s delicacy is perfect for emerald and the swirling elegance of its “bracelet” solo.Imogen Chapman is charming and subtle as the second emerald Ballerina.
Ako Kondo and Brett Chynoweth at ruby – All the fun of quick angles, lightning turns, competitive adventures and jazz beats. Isabelle Dashwood’s “Tall Girl” combined sexiness and movement, with her extra-long legs swishing overhead.
Benedicte Bemet brings elegance and dramatic intensity diamondAnd paired with Prince Joseph Caley, his turn jumps took over the stage.
Benedicte Bemet performs in The Australian Ballet’s Jewels.Credit: Renee Langtry
This season marks the debut of the Australian Ballet jewelryIt’s nice to see the company — now a few years under the leadership of American-born ballet star David Hallberg — perform more Balanchine-esque. From major artists to ballet companies, this style suits them all: you can see the reflections on speed, sparkling precision, musicality and the famous “Hand of Balanchine”.
jewelry An excellent introduction to Balanchine for ballet novices and a delight for seasoned dance lovers.
Commented by Chantal Nguyen
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