From the Artistic Director Welcome to our spring 2021 program, Precious Gems. It is with great joy that we return to the stage live for the first time since November. For this program, we follow many of the same health and safety guidelines from last fall, but thanks to rapid testing for all the dancers, we are able to perform for you without masks and expand some of the partnering between company members. We do not take this gift lightly. In November, when we presented Nine Sinatra Songs program, much of the show was constructed specifically for this challenging time; with two of the modern creations addressing the complicated world around us during the pandemic. For this program, I wanted to present an almost Gala-like affair that showcased and challenged our brilliant artists. After so many months off, and with everything in flux, dancers needed the push that pure classical technique offers. I also felt I owed it to our audience to experience the glittering beauty and athleticism of classical ballet, as we had to cancel The Nutcracker and postpone Romeo & Juliet. Moreover, we are so thrilled to be able to have our orchestra back, working in a small ensemble for two of our offerings. The result is a program that I am calling a glittering jewel-box of solos duets and small ensembles. The program opens with the final pas de deux and variations from Aladdin. Originally created as part of the full story for our Family Classics Series by Ballet West Principal Rehearsal Director Pamela Robinson Harris, to music of Edvard Grieg and Kouchyar Shahroudiit, it makes a lovely and vibrant opening to the program. Next, we present the Ballet West premiere of Aria, Val Caniparoli’s elegant and sensual solo for a man. To the music of George Frederick Handel, the work is at once mysterious and regal. This ballet will be accompanied by a soprano and members of the Ballet West Orchestra. Immediately following is George Balanchine’s high flying, romp Tarantella a non-stop display of energy for a woman and a man to the music of Louis Moreau Gottschalk. This will be the first time Ballet West presents this at the Capitol Theater and the work is pure fun-filled joy. The woman’s solo from one of Val Caniparoli’s most popular and often requested works--Lambarena, comes next with its unique blend of classical and
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