allet West closed its 40-year anniversary season with one of its finest performances yet. “Jubilation!” served as a delightful season finale with a blend of classical, contemporary and modern dance that surprised an enthusiastic audience. The company, along with the rest of the ballet world, celebrated the 100th anniversary of renowned choreographer George Balanchine’s birth. Two of his masterpieces of choreographic genius, “Concerto Barocco” and “Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux,” were danced to perfection.

Set to J.S. Bach’s Concerto in D Minor for Two Violins, “Concerto Barocco” captured each musical note perfectly through the art of neoclassical ballet. The two soloists, Kristin Hakala and Amy Foster, were clean, crisp and not afraid to take risks. A myriad of intertwining patterns, an exciting ending and the simple white costumes made for a pure experience.

Tonia Stefiuk and Christopher Ruud excelled in “Tchaikovsky Pas de Deux,” an exciting display of ballet bravura and technique. These two dancers make a good team—they maintained good contact with each other and danced together with joy and charm. This is a company well-suited for Balanchine’s works, with the dancers’ long lines, fast footwork, musicality and classic elegance.

Also on the program was the long-awaited return of “Lark Ascending,” choreographed by former Ballet West Artistic Director Bruce Marks. “‘Lark’ is about the journey of life, that eternal fight against gravity. Each time I see the lark ascend, I know why we dance. In these sad and troubling times, it is so important to reaffirm the nobility of human spirit,” said Marks, according to a press release. The contemporary ballet featured Hakala as the lark, along with five male partners. Her beautiful, graceful portrayal was truly uplifting.

The final piece, Glen Tetley’s “Rite of Spring,” resulted in shouts of approval from the audience. This was in sharp contrast to the 1913 premiere of this work, which shocked its Parisian audience into riotous disapproval. The outrageous costumes, unusual choreography, the story of pagan sacrifice and Stravinsky’s complex score all contributed to the making of this contradictory work, which is considered today to be a masterpiece. This earthy, challenging piece is a test of technique, strength and stamina.

Elye E. Olsen danced the part of The Chosen One with raw determination. As he literally threw himself about the stage, Viktorija Jansone and Seth Olsen were a little more subtle, but equally captivating, as the seductive and expressive Earth Mother and Earth Father. The corps members threw themselves into their roles as well, and with more than 20 people on stage thrashing about, the result was shocking, impressive and mind-boggling. The violent, modern-dance style combined with frantic, explosive music made for a once-in-a-lifetime experience for Salt Lake City.

“Jubilation!” continues April 15-17 at the Capitol Theatre. Tickets range from $10 to $65 and are available by calling 355-ARTS. Present your student ID one hour prior to performance time to receive a half-price ticket. All performances start at 7:30 p.m. with an additional matinee on April 17 at 2 p.m.
marissa@red-mag.com