'Evening of Ballets' full of emotion

"EVENING OF BALLETS," BALLET WEST, Capitol Theatre, Friday, additional performances through June 2 (355-2787)

The pain of sin and the joy of dance provided the perfect balance during Ballet West's season-ending "Evening of Ballets." The dancers brought every emotion to the stage as they celebrated dance and dove to the depths of sorrow with Andre Prokovsky's "Vespri," Marius Petipa's "Le Corsaire Pas de Deux" and John Butler's "Carmina Burana."

Through all the dynamics, the dancers delivered and were awarded by a rousing standing ovation.

The night's capper was "Carmina Burana." Danced to the majestic and rafter-shaking score by Carl Orff, the ballet examined the secular 13th century poetry written by Bavarian monks.

Adding to the onstage drama that included seductions, adultery and enlightenment, the production is highlighted by the Salt Lake Choral Artists who took their place in the Capitol Theatre box seat section. The soloists include baritone David Power, tenor George Dyer and soprano Genevieve Christianson.

Laying the foundation of the work is the Salt Lake Chamber Orchestra with Terence Kern conducting.

The evening opens with Prokovsky's light-hearted "Vespri." Inspired by the joyful Verdi score, the expressive choreography follows each rest, start and musical dynamic. With a dash of Prokovsky's sense of humor, the dancing is captivating but technically difficult in timing and charm, which in turn sets the tone for the rest of the performances.

Petipa's "Le Corsaire Pas de Deux" capitalizes on the flowing essence of the music. With seemingly effortless lifts and nimble combinations, the dancers (Christiana Bennett and Hua Zhang on Friday) catch the flying spirit of the music and hold the audience in the palms of their hands.

The lighter two works effectively balance the sometimes heaviness of the modern influence of "Carmina Burana."

"Carmina Burana" also marks the last performance for principal dancer Seth Olson, who joined Ballet West in 1997.

Friday night was Olson's last performance with the company, and instead of going through the motions, he danced with emotion as well.

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E-mail: scott@desnews.com