iwatchthecorps

Here is what the Miami Herald had to say:

City Ballet: 2 hits, a miss

Ballet inspires holiday spirit

"Faux snow floated down as 16 dancers in sparkling tutus swirled across the stage in an graceful flurry of white and ice blue. The person sitting next to me at the Philharmonic Center for the Arts in Naples gaped, grinned and glowed in the spell of snowflakes come to life."

I think that there is a great reason to attend MCB Nut in West Palm, Ft. Lauderdale, Carnival, and Clearwater.

After reviewing the casting for three performances in Naples, it appears that MCB gives some opportunities for younger dancers to shine. The future stars can be seen in these Nutcrackers getting their big chance.

A review of Saturday evening's performance can be found at NaplesNews

"Everyone in Saturday night’s performance poured in their own hearts and souls as well. This “Nutcracker” was a model for all others."

For some Nutcracker background, please see The Child in Balanchine Still Jumps for Joy

I am not a ballet expert (although I have seen 100+ Nutcrackers), so I shall reserve the critique to others. Today, I saw both the 2pm and 8pm Naples performances. I do feel that Jennifer Carlynn Kronenberg and Carlos Miguel Guerra were outstanding in the rolls of Sugar Plum and Cavalier in the afternoon. As usual, the entire company provided great performances. Both received standing ovations from the packed houses. Daniel Baker was also a noteable in Candy Canes.

The Phil in Naples is a rather small stage (almost too small for the MCB Nut production). It would be great to hear about other venues as I cannot attend those.

Why do I mention this when I post?...because Cal Performances looks at its box office when booking dance companies. Thus Miami City Ballet comes once a decade, ABT every six years, NYCB once in 15, and the Perm Ballet is returning for a second straight year with the same Swan Lake.

I am quite interested in knowing how box box office at Zellerbach correlates with bookings. It seems to be inversely related from the post above. Any further details would be greatly appreciated.

Wikipedia is a great resource for info on lots of topics including ballet. Miami city Ballet's listing is in need of some attention by experts on this company. Click here to see the Wikipededia entry for Miami City Ballet

I have read the NY Times and the Chronicle Review. Both indicate that "Miami City Ballet might not be quite a world-class company." My question for this group is, what does it take to become a world class ballet company?

If it takes an international tour, then so be it. Edward take your fabulous company to Europe!