Seeking an extraordinary pageantry of power, control, and attitude? Orlando Ballet’s Battle of the Sexes III delivers this and much more.
For those recovering from the overtime Magic loss at the Amway Arena, I’ve got good news: The Orlando Ballet’s performance continues the 11th and 12th; for details and ticket information visit http://orlandoballet.org/performances/battle-of-the-sexes-iii.
Pre-opening warm-ups were tastefully catered by The Bohemian Baker who placed “pure delight in every bite.” With such pleasures fueling the evening, I had a good feeling about tonight’s performance.
Through the direction of Robert Hill, Act One began with Tranquility, where movements were choreographed to harmonic precision. Within seconds of the opening, audience members were taken on an adventure of great expectation.
Without pause, the second scene threw audience members a slight curve. Lament consisted of somber dance fronting a backdrop of misery, sorrow, and consequence. Through greyer than life images, the notion of social (in)justice became more than a palatable aftertaste.
Act One’s scenes demonstrated diversity rarely performed to such high standards on stage. Contemplation’s “Silent Interlude” found no distraction… two dancers, Ani Boer and Daniel Benavides, controlled the center with total focus; a true gift for all who witnessed their magnificence. Immediately following Contemplation, audience members were introduced to the music of Frederic Chopin as dancer, performer, and musician Arcadian Broad stroked ivory flawlessly. Through the softness embracing each chord, A Reum Chung and David Kiyak’s depiction of “Temptation” surrendered shadow to light.
Act One concluded behind an old fashioned Jammin’ session, bringing back Ram Jam’s 1977 classic hit Black Betty to a pumping climax. The male dancers stole the scene to a standing ovation as Douglas Horne (air guitar extraordinaire) and company rocked with reckless and rhythmic abandon.
Act Two was triggered by pounding Techno Madness as multiple dancers displayed why ballet is not for the weak of heart and is, beyond debate, one of the most athletic and strenuous professions in the world.
Scenes outlined by brilliance played out much too quickly as Revelry, performed by Melissa Gelfin and Arcadian Broad, took everyone’s breath away. No doubt these two young professionals are destined for greatness and worldwide recognition.
The following scene transitioned emotion smoothly as Katia Garza and Daniel Benavides teased defiance and seduction, neither giving an inch… both taking. Light and passionate, “to test and prove” fused humor, ballet, music, and art into a delightful braid.
The final silent interlude, “Laugh!!!” was, in my opinion, the most difficult scene to pull off successfully. Anamarie McGinn was perfect with her imperfections. Though all scenes were magnificent, my award for best overall performance this evening is proudly handed to Anamarie.
The final battle of the sexes concluded with music by Aretha Franklin, Chic Cheer, and the Bongo Man & Prodigy. With a stage brimming to capacity and a pinnacle merging dance and ballet into a melodic interplay, sensuality and delicacy connected, subtly forming a balance where none was before.
For those in the Greater Central Florida region, the Orlando Ballet’s Battle of the Sexes III is a must-experience event for all ages.
Danny Huffman, MA, CEIP, CPRW, CPCC
Got Twitter? Shadow me @dannyatecs
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