Mirseng1

Just finished watching 5th episode, completely devoted to the modern Russian choreography. Skylar was exceptional, totally immersed in choreography and the piece. Judges were smitten (and so was Zakharova) praising her highly over her partner (she took it very gracefully). Many (including judges) regret that Skylar does not compete; Vladimir Malakhov said that if she were competing he would give her 12 of possible 10. And praises on Russian ballet forum are equally pleasing. Many wish for her participation in the “competition”. I feel very proud of our girl, and hope that this exposure will open new prospects for Skylar. Way to go!

Yesterday during his meeting with Moscow spectators at the Bakhrushin Museum David Hallberg was asked about his ABT spring season. He replied that he will be doing only two ballets: “Manon” with Isabella Boylston and “Swan Lake”. I think it is safe to assume that “Manon” is returning...

I know that I might be in minority here, but I for one regret that ABT is not bringing any guest stars for the spring season. I do not think that it is very likely that TBA spots would be offered to the guests. Although there may be a common perception that guest stars take away from the home grown dancers, they also bring here wide range of styles, schooling and, on many happy occasions, brilliance of technique and artistry. This is a good opportunity for our dancers to watch, learn and broaden their horizons.

Have anyone attended Program C with Vishneva? Would love to know what you thought since I was not able to attend it myself.

I would welcome new production of "La Bayadere" (do not find Makarova's one satisfying). Robbins' "Other Dancers" would be great too. Promotion to principal to Abrera, and to soloists C. Royal and A. Scott.

Actually, this is Natalia Osipova's page (not "community" and not "fan" page): https://www.facebook.com/#!/natalia.osipova.18?fref=ts

That and Nina's current experience with running ballet company in her native Tbilisi could score her points....

Would it be fun to have Nina as a next AD?

I was not able to exchange any of my tickets yesterday at the box office. Apparently, exchange is now only available to subscribers. The agent was very sympathetic and indicated that this was a relatively new ABT policy, and there were numerous complaints about it.

This is perfect, thank you Amour!

Hello! I have two tickets (Dress Circle, Row D, full view) for Saturday May 23rd evening Giselle (Abrera-Shklyarov-Part). If anyone is interested, please contact me. if selling tickets is not a possibility, I am hoping to exchange them at the box office. Will I be able to do that? What is your experience? Thanks!

Thank you, Amour. No, I was not able to exchange tickets, but mainly for the personal reasons. My expectations are not too high about either lead, but I am in complete agreement about the corps - probably the best or one of the very best in the world. I am seeing Cinderella on its opening night, and then Chopin program on 1/24th. I am certain that I will find these performances very enjoyable.

Just found a couple of YT video clips of the latest Skorik/Parish performance. She is quite nice; not sure about his partnering though... http://youtu.be/DX5MlH6Cudg http://youtu.be/3tHLAhxlcu0

I second Mimsyb. I do not see Sarah as a principal material. I watched her over the years but did not see a real development.

Thank you for your feedback. Unfortunately, this is my only SL. I will try to exchange for Kondaurova's performance (I am not in town for Tereshkina and Lopatkina's nights). I have a feeling (somewhat confirmed by YT clips) that Skorik / Parish pairing would be a disappointment. I do not understand why does Mariinsky bring on tours performers who are not ready for the "prime time" when company has so many first rate dancers (Novikova, for one, would be a joy to behold).

Like most I predict Copeland and Kochetkova filling principals' spots; the third one could go to Olga Smirnova, Russian star in the rising. With Osipova gone and Vishneva approaching retirement, ABT would want internationally known name in its roster. I would rather see Tereshkina who guested with ABT last spring, but she has not been invited to dance at MET during this important anniversary season.

Does anyone have a feedback on Skorik? We have bought tickets to SL with Alina Somova originally cast as O/O; Mariinsky then changed cast in its usual fashion. We are not sure whether to sell tickets or attend January 22nd performance as Skorik 's partner (Parish) seems to be a rather plain, unsure Siegfried. Would love to know your opinions. Thanks!

I second Abbatt. Sarafanov's technique and clean line are hard to match. In terms of acting, he can be very vivid and inspired when paired with his wife, gorgeous Mariinsky ballerina O. Novikova. Cory Stearns may or may not act, but these dancers are not in the same league.

ABT is pairing Osipova with Gomes for spring "Giselle". It can make an interesting duo.

I may only add to what have already been said about Osipova-Sarafanov's pairing. His was the most complacent Albrecht I have seen to-date. Their performance was a technical marvel but lacked drama. Osipova carried the weight but could not do it alone without a partner who responds.

Thank you for your feedback. I will be busy watching numerous clips (there are many). I am in agreement with Abbat about partnering. If there is no real chemistry between dancers results can be disappointing in either case.

Hello! Unfortunately, I won't be able to see Lopatkina's "Swan Lake" (and I am grieving!). For those of you who have seen Somova and Kandaurova - what be a better or, should I say, a more exciting choice for SL? Thank you for your feedback.

It becomes more and more apparent that Polunin did not quit ballet just yet. The dancer has just confirmed his appearance as Prince Rudolf (Mayerling) with MAMT (!) in November 2014. There is also a strong possibility of his further performances during Novosibirsk 2014-2015 season - both at home and on tour.

For those of you who has TDF membership: there are discounted tickets priced at $34 on selected performances of Giselle, DQ and Mixed Bill. Web site www.tdf.org.

For those who are interested in Polunin's career development: yesterday he has debuted in Grigorovich "Spartacus" (with Igor Zelensky as Krass) to a great acclaim. Performance took place in Novosibirsk where Mr. Zelensky is an AD, and Polunin is a "permanent guest artist". It leads me do believe that announcement given by director of MAMT was not only hasty and thoughtless, but also given by the interested party.