observations 12/20

From yesterday's 24/7 Wall Street financial newsletter on America's Worst Run Companies:

In order to be considered truly poorly run, a company must have a track record of missed opportunities, mismanaged risks, poor operational decisions, or executive malfeasance. In short, a company must demonstrate a pattern of decision making that calls into question the ability of its management and directors to adequately provide returns to shareholders.

ABT may be fleeing Brooklyn but NYCB is seizing the opportunity.

 

In March, with the support of the NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, National Endowment for the Arts, and various NYC Council members, NYCB's School of American Ballet will present a program at the Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts entitled The Beauty of Ballet. The 45 minute family-friendly lecture demonstration featuring excerpts from The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, and Swan Lake will be FREE.

 

If one has not already observed, NYCB is emphasizing its expertise in full-length ballets for this program.

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Last evening at the Shubert Theater in New Haven, Haglund had the opportunity to see a charm-filled production of The Nutcracker by the New Haven Ballet that featured Simone Messmer and Adrian Danchig-Waring.

 

Aside from the guest principals' outstanding contribution of the adapted Balanchine PdD, the highlights of the night included the initially nervous Snowflakes who midway through their section suddenly and very visibly realized "We've got this!" and then soared to the Snow Scene's conclusion. The Nutcracker has always been - on so many levels - all about growth and finally fulfilling one's dreams. That was clearly happening last night for many on the stage.

 

The New Haven Ballet Orchestra was exceptional. What a treat it was during Tchaikovsky's Land of Snow when a choir appeared at an upper side balcony to contribute beautiful harmonies.

 

A nod to Brad Roth who as Drosselmeyer, not only put in his own fine performance, but also helped direct the onstage traffic which was joyfully congested with excited tiny reindeer, mice, lambs, soldiers, polichinelles, and party kids.

 

The draw of The Nutcracker continues to be irresistible.

 

 

Comments

[Brad Roth]

The guest dancers, Simone and Adrian, were magnificent, for all five performances. In addition, they were very friendly with the cast, adding to the ensemble feel of being in this production.
-Drosselmeyer (Brad Roth)

[Haglund]

Thanks, Brad. Simone and Adrian are among my favorite dancers of all time. They certainly made a handsome pair.