Madison Ballet bridges the gap between traditional elements and contemporary formal orientation in its current program, “Timeless.''
Featuring a world premiere by Artistic Director Ja Malik and the second act of his 1841 masterpiece, “Giselle,” “Timeless” provides audiences with a striking, wide-ranging view of ballet’s harsh beauty, set in the Capitol at Overture Center. The theater has proven to be a stage worthy of its size and quality. The artistry on display.
The program begins with “Hallelujah Junction” by Ja Malik. This is a strictly frenetic production in which 10 dancers work together, using symmetry and play to create an emotionally stirring picture of what modern ballet can be. is. “Beautiful” is a simple word often used, especially in an artistic context, but I can't help but describe this work as such.
The curtain rises to reveal a lone dancer in the center of the stage, lying away from the audience, one leg raised in the air, illuminated by a single light bulb hanging above. The silence is dense and satisfying. Composer John Adams' music plays, and two dancers suddenly appear from the darkness behind and move the song. What follows is a disciplined and seamless display of the potential magic of form, body and partnership that touches deep inner emotions.
Lighting by Julie E. Ballard provides a canvas for Ja Malik's artistry to truly shine. Ballard's work, which oscillates between warmth and cold, minimal and maximal, intimate and grandiose, not only brightens the dance but also amplifies its emotional salience. The entire cast is invested. Michaela King plays the lead role. Eric Stith dances beyond his body.
Benches surrounding the stage and bare light bulbs hanging from above appear and disappear throughout the piece. The dancers sit and look at each other. Dancers take turns. Dancers help, encourage, and testify to each other. All of this allows audiences to do the same and see a world where excellence is a collective act and a reason for celebration.
After a short intermission, Ja Malik's second performance of “Agape” will be performed. The song is a duet featuring James Wainwright and Dana Sheldon, and tells the love story of the two dancers, costumed by Ja Malik and company dancer Fernanda Yamaguchi. Both wear taupe corsets and flowing skirts, a subtle yet powerful nod to the possibilities of love that transcend gender boundaries.
The dance itself is fluid and dynamic. Ja Malik's expansive use of the stage depicts a story of separation and intimacy. In the middle of the piece, the second curtain rises to reveal ropes and lights hanging behind the stage, allowing the audience to feel the space even more deeply.
Traditional ballet lovers will be delighted by Madison Ballet's production of Giselle (Act II). The film tells the story of Albrecht, who visits the grave of his beloved Giselle and is threatened by Willis, a group of ghosts of the scorned bride. Giselle, danced by Lauren Thompson (Michaela King in the alternate performance) and Albrecht, danced by Benjamin Shepherd (Michele Prudente in the alternate performance), eventually overcome their anger.
Both Thompson and Shepard naturally elicit applause for their flawless footwork. Willis is a group of outstanding dancers led by Mirtha and danced by the enchanting Shannon Quirk. The scale and production quality of the work was impressive, and it was received with a standing ovation.
“Timeless” concludes the 2023-24 season for Madison Ballet, which has established itself as a pioneer in the arts in the city. From classic revivals to innovative new releases, the company's future is bright.
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