As in “The Battle of the Sexes II, I was in awe of the talented dancers in ¡Bailamos! who graced the stage at the Linda Chapin Theatre in the West building of the Orange County Convention Center. Once again the mix of sound and sight was a feast for the senses as the performers danced to the different numbers. My eyes were glued to the stage as my ears listened intently as the ballet unfolded. Unlike “The Battle of the Sexes II, there was no intermission but instead, brief talks by Ybeth Bruzaual of channel 13 Brighthouse’s 24 hour local news station and Robert Hill the artistic director of the Orlando Ballet. My only comment about them is that the first one should have been at the beginning of the show, not after the first number. It felt like when you are watching a favorite TV show or movie that is about to reach its high point and instead you get a huge number of commercials that take away the whole feeling that should have been reached.
One or two of the numbers were very much like ones I saw last month but they still felt fresh and new. I also marveled at the ease with which the cast members made every step, knowing full well it is not at all simple. The grace and fluid motions of all the company were consistent throughout the entire production. Much of the music was unfamiliar to me, but all of it had a lively upbeat feel, as did the movements of all who preformed. The costumes were captivating. This was a celebration of the Hispanic culture and it was delightful.
I know also that this production was more of a traditional ballet because there were at times only two people on stage and there was no appearance of gymnastics. Each of the selections is a magnificent melding of music, lighting and dance. I was also stunned to watch the females on the tip of their toes who make it appear natural. I know it takes many years of practice, study and rehearsals to be able to pull it off so flawlessly.
If there is a complaint it is that in the material that was sent to me it only said the event was in the Linda Chapin Theatre Orange County Convention Center. I have been to the facility for so many events and had no clue what building the theater is in until I googled it online and even then it took a little time to find out where in the West building it actually is. I heard the same thing from others as well. I think if any other productions take place in this theater maybe the company could make it a little easier to find in their material.
The only other thing I found of interest was the rudeness of a number of people who were text messaging on their cell phones during the entire production. I thought, is your phone more important than watching this live spectacular production? Can’t you pay attention instead? I think that the Company should announce at the beginning “Please turn off all cell phones.” I find it’s a shame that people are not responsible enough to do it on their own.
This was a fantastic show that should have more play time than just one performance. Orlando is filled with lots of interesting things to do and see, and this was one of them.
