Paris Match

A Scene from Suite en Blanc

The Australian Ballet's last ballet, called 'Paris Match', a combination of a traditional french ballet, with a modern style ballet, was a triumph in beautifully choreographed dance. 

Andrew Killian in Suite en Blanc

Opening with the 'Suite en Blanc', the first ballet was a traditional french ballet, complete with white tutus and men in tights. The highlights were a beautiful Pas de Deux, between Rudy Hawkes and Robyn Hendricks. Rudy Hawkes appears to be one of the rising stars in the Australian Ballet. Although he is not a principal he appears to have the grace and technical ability of a Principal dancer. Special mention must be made of the Finale, where all the dancers showcased their abilities in a spectacular finish. This ballet was surprising in the use of a large number of chorus dancers, as well as soloists and principals; although the chorus did not appear to actually do that much dancing, rather they acted as the backdrop to the soloists. That being, it still combined to create a visually beautiful dance. The use of only white and black for costuming not only remained in line with traditional ballet and the spirit of the ballet, but added an extra element of elegance that helped in lifting the beauty of the dancers. 

A scene from Divergence

The second ballet, Stanton Welch's 'Divergence' was nothing short of amazing. The combination of intriguing costuming and simple yet effective lighting created a feeling of edge and immediately drew you into the dance. I particularly enjoyed a spider like dance of three lead female dancers in front of an orange backdrop. The only light source on stage was the orange background, casting the dancers in black as they skulked across the stage. Using pointe effectively, these dancers managed to create a sense of spiders and animals sneaking up on their prey. Another notable mention was the Pas de Deux with Principal dancer Robert Curran. Curran's intense strength was integral in maintaining the feeling of edge and intrigue which carried through the ballet. I particularly enjoyed the black tutus worn by the female dancers, created using industrial materials. 

Yosvani Ramos in Divergence

The juxtaposition of Serge Lifar's traditional ballet from 1943, with Stanton Welch's modern ballet, premiered in 1994; formed a great night of entertainment. 

Paris Match is now closed; however you can view a performance of the Pas de Deux from Divergence here:

More photos can be viewed here:

http://www.australianballet.com.au/main.taf?p=4,1,1,1,14

I look forward to the next ballet from the Australian Ballet Company,

Em

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please watch this video of my animation at its current form and let me know whether you think this seems too choppy, or whether its fine, i can't decide whether to redo it or not. 

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