The Summer & Smoke mixed rep program at the Wortham shows Houston Ballet at its best. HoustonBallet WorthamCenter
, but at least it hints that the genius you encounter throughout its roughly two-and-a-half-hour-long length., the curtain rising on a bright, sky blue backdrop and eight dancers, costumed in unobtrusive white leotards and skirts. You quickly see that the costumes allow you to appreciate the sophistication of Balanchine’s choreography – the technical precision required, the intricate patterns and formations, the delicate spacing and synchronicity, and – above all – the musicality of the piece.
In particular, the partnering between Kajiya and Harper Watters in the second movement is superb, absolutely elegant with seemingly effortless lifts and grace. Watters, the only male in the piece, is a strong presence and an interesting counterpoint to the women of the piece. Though Kajiya and Long are the headliners here , it’s the eight dancers that support them that deserve a medal. They never stop moving, flitting about the stage and ensuring a crucial dynamism to the piece..
There is great fluidity to Marston’s choreography and it pairs well with Michael Daugherty’s score, itself cinematically epic and atmospheric. Collado and O’Connell’s partnering overflows with longing and desire. It’s sensual, peppered with sweeping lifts and repetition that underscores the push and pull between the characters.
Though the relationship between John and Alma is at the story’s core, Marston has really fleshed out the world around them. This includes Patrick Kinmonth’s period-evoking costumes and almost industrial set design and the strength of the supporting characters, especially Connor Walsh, Bridget Kuhns, Melody Mennite, and the portrayers of the young John and Alma, Eli Go and Justine Marcov.
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