Texas Ballet exuded passion, grace and powerful storytelling throughout their performance of “Don Quixote” and select choreography at the group’s spring showcase on Saturday.
As the lights rose on the Hogg Memorial Auditorium stage, an ensemble of about 15 ballerinas with red flowers in their hair surrounded one soloist dancing “Kitri’s Entrance Variation.” This fast-paced opening number set the tone for a beautifully executed performance.
Throughout “Part One: The Town” of the first act, the energy shifted from slow and deliberate to lively and swift throughout solos, duets and ensemble numbers. The use of fans and scarves extended the dynamic and creative choreography. However, biology freshman Christine Madarang and undeclared business freshman Priyanka Parkar’s duet shined. With excellent chemistry, the pair executed the sharp, quick movements of the piece in complete synchronicity.
“Part Two: The Dream,” opens on the ensemble dressed in an array of blue leotards with white skirts striking a still artistic formation. Slowly, three soloists began to move out of the formation one by one. Two of the three soloists wore beautiful white tutus as they led the ballet into its strongest number.
Biomedical engineering senior Gabrielle Ponthier stunned as “Queen of the Dryads.” Her solo led the number into a slow and peaceful mood, and her technique was incredibly controlled with every precise step. After the characters Cupid and Dulcinea performed and exited, the ensemble’s performance slowly intensified until the three soloists jetéd back into the number.
The final part of the first act, “The Wedding,” ended Texas Ballet’s performance of “Don Quixote” on a vibrant, upbeat note. The ensemble of bridesmaids and their colorful leotards entered and exited between four enticing solos. Biology senior Emma Cox’s confident demeanor throughout “Bridesmaid Variation 3” captured the audience’s attention and reflected her striking style.
Just before the “Wedding Finale,” advertising senior Charity Chen entered in a bright red leotard, white tutu and a red fan in hand. She beautifully executed the delicate solo as the fan in her hand softly glided in the air. With sharp movements, Chen captured the mood of this piece in every aspect.
As all dancers of “The Wedding” entered to perform the finale, the music increased its pace. While the bridesmaids’ final sequence of pirouettes could have been stronger, Texas Ballet’s production of “Don Quixote” ended on a lovely note.
The second act consisted of five select numbers, including “Princess Aurora Wedding Variation” and “Long Ago,” but psychology junior Katarina Jakimier’s performance of “Dying Swan” stole the show. The dancer stayed en pointe for nearly her entire solo, delivering captivating facial expressions and immense strength. The crowd erupted with thunderous applause when the “swan” died, and she collapsed on the stage.
Texas Ballet’s showcase combined a blend of expressive themes that reflected the company’s range. While not every piece carried the same impact, the performance offered a glimpse into the dancers’ versatility and dedication.
4 out of 5 fluttering fans
