Swept away!
Sunday, June 2nd, 2013
Classic ballet enchants audience
by Judith Owens-Lancaster
Northwest Ballet Theater has a history with Cinderella. In 2003, NBT brought this timeless fairy tale to life with sumptuous spectacle, majestic music and breathtaking choreography. The version we see today was created in 1948 by the Sadler Wells Ballet at the Royal Opera House in London, choreographed by Sir Frederick Ashton. In 2003, Mija Bishop performed the titular princess and now her younger sister Miye takes the lead with Mija as choreographer and stage director as well as playing one of the wicked stepsisters.
Sure we know the story, but it is all brand new set to music and made magical and beautiful through dance. Miye Bishop floats, that’s the only way I can describe her weightless incredible dancing.
Talented Seattle dancer Joshua Deininger is her perfect tall, dark and handsome Prince Charming who possesses great poise and musicality. There are all levels of talent in this huge company and all ages from about four years old to senior citizens! Kira Cardoza is a lovely Fairy Godmother and the Evil Stepmother is believably portrayed by Ryann Lewis. I must confess my favorites were the stepsisters, Mija Bishop and Natasha Keeley, who not only are superb dancers but superb actors/comediennes as well.
The costumes were lovely, some more stunning than others and the little ones were angelic as fairies and mice. It’s rather amazing in such a large company to imagine how many costumes have to be made. Not only that, I found myself wondering at the stage manager and crew that not only took care of the drops, sets and props but had to ride herd on so many very young dancers. Kudos to those who work backstage and keep everything running smoothly during a performance. Unsung heroes all.
Artistic Director John Bishop formed Northwest Ballet Theater in 1999 and has established this company as one of Washington’s leading ballet troupes. All accomplished dancers, principals, soloists, and the corps de ballet, they never fail to entertain and delight their audience with stunning technical ability and touching artistry. Bishop and NBT deservedly received the Mayor’s Arts Award this year, along with a grant from Bob Wallin Insurance that was voted on by the general public.
There’s still time to see this magical ballet Sunday, June 2, at 2 p.m. at the Mount Baker Theatre. Tickets are available at the theatre box office in person or over the phone at (360) 734-6080. Prices are $24, $20, or $15, with a 20 percent discount for students, seniors and military members.
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Link to Original Article: http://www.ennw.info/2013/06/02/swept-away/