THE NOTEBOOK (6/23/14): “Black Swan” moment at ABT’s “Swan Lake”

“Black Swan” moment at ABT’s “Swan Lake”

Last night marked the opening of ABT’s weeklong run of “Swan Lake” at the Metropolitan Opera House. The wonderfully talented Gillian Murphy and heroic Marcelo Gomes were scheduled to dance Odette/Odile and Albrecht last night, which I was very much looking forward to. Both were magnificent in the ballet’s first act, particularly Gillian, who danced the white swan as compellingly as I’ve seen anyone dance the role. After the curtain came down on the first act, I was excited to see what fireworks were in store in the dramatic second act. In a “Black Swan” moment (what was happening backstage?), an announcement was made during the prolonged intermission that Gillian would not be dancing the second act due to (a preexisting?) injury. Hee Seo saved the day by stepping into Gillian’s shoes in the last minute and gave an admirably elegant performance, particularly given the circumstances. I did, however, miss Gillian’s commanding presence in the second act (her Act III is absolutely breathtaking). Marcelo, the true star of the night, was the very picture of the passionate romantic lead throughout, to the audience’s rapt delight.

Categories: Dance

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