Although I am only a pre-professional student, I had the oppurtunity to attend Jewels last night and I thought I would add my input.
I agree with Ari that Miranda Weese was extremely dead, there was no true feeling in her dancing, just a bunch of steps. I was not overly impressed with Jennifer Ringer either, although she seemed to have the feel of her role more than Weese. I was impressed with Carmena in the pas de trois, his impeccable musicality made his dancing exciting to watch. Over all, I though Emeralds was well danced but not spectacular.
Rubies, on the other hand, was captivating. Alexandra Ansanelli was perfect for the role, and her glittering, precise, sharp technique was wonderful to watch. Her energy was fabulous. Her partner, on the other hand, was nothing fantastic. I also thought Teresa Reichlen did a wonderful job. Her long legs and beautiful extension made her perfect for the role. She might have risked a little more as far as the personality of the role, but I thought over all she was beautiful.
Diamonds had its beautiful moments and its shaky moments. I thought the corps was a little rough at times, somewhat dead with not much clarity. As for Kowroski, the pas de deux was absolutely gorgeous. I thought she had such a presence and elegance that made the pas exceptionally beautiful. Her legs and feet are just gorgeous. One of the things that made the pas so beautiful was Philip Neal and way he partnered Kowroski. He has such a grace and elegance about his dancing. I thought toward the end of the ballet Kowroski looked a little dead, you could tell she was getting tired and she didn't put quite enough effort into it.
Over all I enjoyed the performance very much and thought that there were some outstanding perfomances. I too am so glad that NYCB is back in Washington.