Aspen Santa Fe Ballet
We were presented with three acts. The first was “Sweet Fields” which is licensed choreography of
Twyla Tharp. I have never been a big fan of “rolling on the stage” which is commonly using in
modern ballet, however I’m willing to make room for this piece. There was connection between the
outside and inside groups and those on the floor where always given a helping hand. The flow
was inviting than what I have experienced in other shows.
The second, called “1st Flash” was choreography by Jorma Elo. The guys did a great job here,
the whole thing starts simply with three guys carrying a fourth in a press. However it becomes
more involved as those carrying change positions. These guys didn’t take the easy road and
simply lift the smallest member, they were all lifted by the remaining group at some point.
The third, called “Noir Blanc” is by Moses Pendleton. This piece uses lighting
tricks to hide the dancers - well for the most part. The costumes were designed in
such a way to only show half the dancer with backlighting. The dancers would
create wonderful effects such as Yoga meditation floating in the air, a body wave performed
7 feet off the stage. Even after the audience discovered the lighting trick being used it
was still fascinating.
The Wichita Eagle has a review: http://www.kansas.com/160/story/313692.html