This weekend’s performance at Orlando Ballet’s latest program, Steinmetz Hall, offers a wide range of styles and ranges, from classic choreography to contemporary work. As Showbiz says, “something for everyone.”
The program’s classics were George Barra Singh’s “Divatiment No. 15,” which danced to Mozart’s music, while Martha Graham’s “Maple Lee Flag” was performed on Scott Joplin’s songs, including its title number. The new work is by living composer Alisa Pierce of Canada. The title “Skyward” depicts an emotional portrait of the exhilarating and fear that he experienced when he faced major changes.
Pires’ choreography was full of urgency and elevated by recorded music performed by Sextet Eighth Backbird.
“Skyward” begins with a bolt of energy as the dancer bursts across the stage, jumps and lifts up. As the work progresses, the thoughts of life’s confusion begin to fade as pleasant patterns emerge.
In the second movement, the ballerina appears to be buffeted by the army of life as she tries to rise above the unpredictable male dancers around her. The following sequence pairing provides a more comfortable view as the dancer’s stable partner shows stability and support, leading to hopeful conclusions that ultimate movement is elevated.
Dana Osborne’s costume features long fringes that sparkle in movement, beautifully reminiscent of the idea of flight and freedom.
More formal is Barasin’s interpretation of Mozart’s nearly 250 years of composition, suitable for the music at hand. As traditionally thought, it is ballet. A court man in swirling, sparkling skirts and tights. Orlando Ballet Company rises to the occasion with Grace as dancers create beautiful images of Baracin on stage.
And while the dancers remain appropriately proud, the performance is not guided at all, and it shines with lightness. If men felt a bit tentative at entry after they had settled in by female colleagues, they immediately projected the necessary confidence. And Amir Dodarkjayev did a lovely job in partnership with Nakamura, impressed by the various tricky and beautiful enpointe positions.
Finally, Graham’s “Maple Lee Flag” made me grin from ear to ear. John Avenanti and Kenna Gold appear to be happy with the joke, but show serious physicality when they hold onto the bouncy barre.
Its physicality is proven throughout the company with unique movements, unexpected lifts and positions that pay tongue respect to Graham’s repertoire. It’s fast-paced and full of light-hearted fun.
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Orlando Ballet
Contents: George Barachin, Martha Graham and Alisa Pier Program Length: 2 hours, 2 hours Intermission: Steinmetzhall, 445 S. Magnolia Avenue, Doctor of Performing Arts.
Original issue: March 28, 2025 5am Edit
