Editor's note: the following review was written by James O. Welsch and Linda Loomis, Contributing writers.
BalletMet Columbus and Syracuse Symphony Orchestra breathed fresh life into a Central New York tradition Friday with “The Nutcracker,” a fairy tale ballet choreographed by Gerard Charles with a recorded narration by Sir Roger Moore, of James Bond fame. Ron Spigelman conducted the orchestra, which rendered Tchaikovsky’s familiar score with true inspiration, reflecting the excitement of a new dance company on stage for this holiday favorite following last year’s hiatus.
Fifty-six local dancers from several studios added their talent and charm, augmenting the ranks of the exquisite BalletMet performers. A particularly wonderful aspect was that these young dancers were not simply assigned superfluous roles, but were given opportunities to shimmer in many of the character dances in the second act.
All the nostalgic elements we expect — a tree that grows, a magical snow scene, and fiery Spanish dancers — appeared, along with innovative elements in sets and costumes as well.
Staging in the first act was appropriately seasonal, featuring crimson and burgundy set off by dark wood grains and evergreen. Costumes were generally muted, except for that of Clara, easily recognizable in her pink hoop dress.
The pleasant holiday scene was suddenly transformed when a hearth, grandfather clock and staircase became fortress elements as Herr Drosselmeyer ushered in the nightmarish battle between the mice and soldiers. At the conclusion of the battle, the prince is released from his Nutcracker form and Clara is transformed into a princess. In the ensuing duet, the landscape becomes a proper Russian winterscape, creating a particularly lovely background for the delicate snowflake ensemble.
Annie Mallonee, as Princess Clara, performed her youthful dances with captivating grace. The Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier, danced by Adrienne Benz and Jon Drake, respectively, delivered marvelous beauty and poise throughout the opening of Act II, presenting a reserved and stunning pas de deux. Drosselmeyer (Jackson Sarver) provided consistency throughout, functioning as the “master of ceremonies.”
One disappointment was the narrative element, which either had a tendency to fall short or interrupt the music.
In the celebratory dances in Act II, we saw spectacular coordination between Clara and her favorite Spanish dancer; great movement and color in the Waltz of the Flowers, and a surprising Chinese dragon in the Trepak. The Arabian dancers were truly breathtaking, moving with true sensuality and beauty.
“The Nutcracker” is in town only through Sunday. Whether it is a first-time adventure or a return to a comfortable holiday tradition, do make time for this innovative production. It has been 118 years since its premiere, but this wonderful ballet still has the ability to inspire the imagination and capture the magic of a wonderful season.
What: “The Nutcracker,” by the BalletMet Columbus and Syracuse Symphony Orchestra.
When: 7:30 p.m. tonight and 2 p.m. Sunday.
Where: Crouse-Hinds Theater, John H. Mulroy Civic Center, 411 Montgomery St.
Tickets: Adults, $39; children, $10. Call 424-8200 or go to www.syracusesymphony.org