Royal Ballet's Encounters: A Review of Three Works
Let's be honest, sometimes you go to the ballet and you're just not feeling it. The choreography can feel clunky, the music doesn't hit the spot, and you're basically counting down the minutes till the curtain call. But then, there are nights like these, where the Royal Ballet delivers a triple whammy of brilliance with "Encounters," showcasing three distinct works. This wasn't just a dance performance, it was a journey through emotions, storytelling, and pure artistry.
A Glimpse into the Past: "The Dream"
First up, we had Frederick Ashton's "The Dream," a timeless classic inspired by Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream." It's a piece that's all about lightheartedness and playful energy, and the dancers brought it to life with stunning precision. The costumes were gorgeous and the music (by Mendelssohn, of course) was absolutely divine.
It's easy to see why "The Dream" has become a ballet staple. It's a story that everyone can relate to - love, confusion, and the power of dreams. The dancers, especially the fairies, were absolutely magical. It was a visual feast that was truly a joy to behold.
A Modern Masterpiece: "The Dante Sonata"
Next up, we had Wayne McGregor's "The Dante Sonata." Now, this is a piece that's not for the faint of heart. It's dark, it's intense, and it's visually stunning. The choreography is super complex and the music, by Thomas Adès, is seriously intense – think heavy metal meets classical.
The dancers really pushed their limits with this piece, and the result was truly captivating. It was like watching a real-life battle between good and evil. The story was told in a way that was both dramatic and thought-provoking.
A Touch of Light: "The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude"
Last but not least, we had Christopher Wheeldon's "The Vertiginous Thrill of Exactitude." This piece was a welcome change of pace after the intensity of "The Dante Sonata." It was light, playful, and just plain fun.
The choreography was incredibly inventive and the dancers were effortless in their execution. It was a beautiful reminder that ballet can be just as entertaining as it is beautiful.
Overall Thoughts
"Encounters" was a powerful and emotionally charged night at the ballet. The three works showcased a diverse range of styles and stories, and the dancers were absolutely incredible. If you get the chance to see this program, don't miss it! It's a testament to the artistry of the Royal Ballet and a reminder that ballet can be both powerful and profoundly beautiful.