ABT, Ailey, NYC

StyleStation | Jun 25, 2009 | there are 1 comments

The Wilis in ABT's Giselle

"Holla", or should I say "G'Day Mate" now that I am back on Aussie soil. One long flight later and I am missing NY, however so happy to be amongst family and friends here 'down under.'

So as promised here is the update on my feast of entertainment NY style.

Before heading off for the summer I had the privilege of enjoying Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre's Best Of Ailey Program at BAM. Aaaaaaaaaaaaahh, what a program ! This was HOT !!!! How can you go wrong with one of the world's best contemporary companies, an African-American cultural ambassador to the world ....

The evening kicked off with Hymn choreographed by Judith Jamison. The highlight for me was the second act, Suite Otis. The male company members worked the hot pink skin tight pants that they appeared to be poured into :) ...... so complimentary to the signature hip rolls which featured in this slick jazz style concepted in 1971. Suite Otis was vibrant, fun and full in breadth of movement, impeccably designed to the sweet tunes of Otis Redding. The third act was the classic, Revelations. The iconic and intense pas de deux, "Fix Me Jesus" was perfomed in an almost inhuman form of perfection by Akua Parker and Anthony Burrell. The classic marriage of Alvin Ailey's movement to music in "Wade In The Water" and "Sinner Man" lives on in timeless fashion. A must see whenever you have the chance. You can catch AAADT on international tour this summer in France, Denmark and Greece. Check www.alvinailey.org for details.

The Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center was my next stop. My very good friend, and director of Mix't Dance, Jen James and I settled into our box seats for an extraordinary performance of Giselle by American Ballet Theatre. We felt reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw in Sex And The City or Julia Robert's iconic character in Pretty Woman rocking the box seats !

The technicians of ABT were breathtaking. Due to injury Xiomara Reyes was unable to perform and Maria Riccetto presented the role of Giselle with grace and precision. Herman Cornejo was brilliant as Count Albrecht. His elevation soared to uncommon heights with exhibitions of precision battery. My favourite moment was the classic arabesque choreography of The Wilis in their romantic length white tutus passing through in line, (pictured). The entire performance was utterly charming, enchanting, moving and dramatic.

ABT is presenting Sylvia in New York next week, June 29 through July 4th. Take advantage of KIDS GO FREE on Independance Day ! For each full priced adult ticket purchased for the July 4 matinee, a child 4 - 17 may attend for FREE ! Book now www.abt.org

I am always keen to hear from you wherever you are in the world. Feel free to share what YOU are up to. To all of my students who are studying at American Ballet Theatre, School Of American Ballet, The Joffrey and other programs this summer, soak up the wonderful training and most importantly enjoy :)

You can blog me here, email me at danceruniverse@mystylestation.com, follow me on Twitter http://twitter.com/stylestation or join my Facebook group, STYLE STATION. http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/group.php?gid=83493543989&ref=ts

I feel that the following quote is so perfect for this week considering I witnessed two of the most technical companies in existence .... "The most perfect technique is that which is not noticed at all".

With that in mind, onward we strive for perfect technique, our backbone.

Enjoy yourself a great week,
Love Martine xx