BalletMet presents "Romeo and Juliet"

BalletMet closes with familiar tale

by Dwayne Steward
Entertainment Coordinator
The Advoacte
May 1, 2008

BalletMet plans to celebrate its 30-year presence in central Ohio by offering a tribute to the past.

The nationally well-respected dance company will present former BalletMet director David Nixon’s version of “Romeo and Juliet” this weekend.

The production, the company’s last of the season, originally debuted in 1998 and will feature Jimmy Orrante, Dmitri Suslov and Carrie West, who all performed the show during its 2002 revival.

“It’s a great way to welcome in the spring … a beautiful love story that shows the power of true love,” said company spokeswoman Jennifer Sciantarelli. “It’s a great blend of music and choreography.”

Going all out for this one, preparation for the production started back in February and included consultation with fight choreographer Phil Wilson and BalletMime creator Gregg Goldston to help hone performers’ non-verbal acting skills, as the entire story is told void of a single word. Nixon, whose six-year reign ended in 2001, also returned for a short while to instruct the dancers.

“It was a real treat,” Sciantarelli said of Nixon’s return. (He’s now head of England’s Northern Ballet Theatre.) “Some of the dancers were here when he was director. It was a nice reunion for all of us.”

The classic tale, reopening at 7:30 p.m. tonight, will be coupled with a 30th Anniversary Gala (at $125 a ticket) honoring 30 people who’ve been instrumental in the company’s longevity. Using the pearl tradition, which is often the gift given during one’s 30th wedding anniversary, they’re being called “The 30 Pearls of BalleMet.”

BalletMet commercial describing the company's programs and influence.

“The list represents people who’ve really made a significant impact on getting BalletMet to where it is today,” Sciantarelli said. She continued to say the show was a fitting end to the 30th year because, like BalletMet, Romeo and Juliet’s iconic tale has stood the test of time.

The show runs through Sunday at The Ohio Theatre, 34 E. State St., Columbus. Tickets are $18.50 to $64.50; call (614) 469-0939 or visit www.ticketmaster.com. For more on BalletMet, visit www.balletmet.org.