I bought my tickets right after the casting was posted, and I'm so glad I did!
Seeing her emerge in the costume was such a breathtaking moment that was made even more special by the knowledge that she is the first Black dancer to dance the role in the company's 75-year history. She truly sparkles in the role. At first, there was a hint of tentativeness on her face that melted away with each entrance and was gradually replaced by a radiant confidence. Her dancing was crisp, clean, and expansive, with buoyant jumps and some playfulness with the footwork. Though I don't consider her a natural turner, the fouette sequence was technically secure, with her opting for a pretty fast double pirouette instead of the usual attitude turn at the end. The audience was eating it up and went wild at the end. I'm excited that she gets another go at it as the nerves will have likely subsided, and she can take a few more risks with her dancing.
Mira Nadon was an enchanting SPF, full of warmth and at times mystery. Lauren Collett was a lovely Marzipan, sailing through the gargouillades and turns with ease.
