BWW Reviews: INTERMEZZO

In music, intermezzo is a musical composition that is partnered with another work of art, usually a play or other, larger musical compositions. Following this definition, Intermezzo, a spectacular new ballet company, entirely lives up to its name. There is no greater joy than an evening at the ballet, or the opportunity to attend a night at the symphony. So, one can imagine that combing the two made for a spectacular performance. The magic of combining ballet with live music, even if it's just a string quartet, creates an atmosphere that can't be beat. The premiere of Intermezzo featured Verdi's String Quartet in E-minor and was performed by the amazing Wyrick Quartet. The choreography, imagined by a handful of ABT alum, served as the perfect accompaniment to this beautiful score.

The dancers of Intermezzo must be recognized for their amazing partnering skills. There is truth in the phrase "there is strength in numbers," because this ensemble was strongest when they worked together. It was the lifts and partnering that truly blew me away throughout the performance. The men danced powerfully and gracefully, just as I expect male dancers to. They lifted their partners with an ease that was extraordinary to watch. The girls, as well, held their own, their faces giving away nothing as they seemingly effortlessly performed complicated series of fouette and shenae turns on pointe. The technique of every dancer in this ensemble was nearly perfect. I could find no fault in their turn-outs, leaps, and releves. The amount of time and training each dancer has put into their craft was clearly evident. Even the youngest of the ensemble, who couldn't have been older than 16 and admittedly was a bit more awkward and less powerful in his movements than his older counterparts, had impeccable technique and endless potential.

It was also delightful to watch two girls duet together, their grace and poise melding beautifully together. And, in comparison, a duet featuring two of the male dancers was extremely powerful. Their playful and fun duet was all strength and grace, taking control of the small stage.

Overall, I was impressed with the premiere of Intermezzo. However, I did take note of a few things that could be improved upon. The story of Act 1 was lost on me. At the opening of the performance, I believed I had a complete understanding of the story. Unfortunately, as the dancing and music progressed, I became lost and confused, not sure what was trying to be communicated. Act 2, however, came back fast and strong, the choreography serving to show the beauty in the movement rather than attempting to tell a convoluted story.

Unfortunately, even with their individual strength and amazing partnership, the group did not always dance as one. On more than one occasion, the dancers would lose their synchronicity, or one dancer would fall behind, ruining the entrancing spell of the movement. If the ensemble had consistently danced as one, then this choreography would have been magic. Also, when I'm watching dance, I like the dancers' legs and arms to extend and flow for miles. However, many of the extensions stopped short, feeling a bit too choppy at times. These minor imperfections can easily be overlooked, though, because of the raw potential of the individual performers and the overall beauty of the choreography.

While the small atmosphere was enticing and personal at the 92nd Street Y, allowing the audience to be close enough to the dancers to hear the sound of their heavy breathing (the only tell the dancers gave that the choreography was challenging), I must insist that someone give this ensemble a stage. This occasion marked the premiere for the Intermezzo ballet company, and I expect great things to come in the future. Be sure to keep an eye on this company, for they are off to great start and are sure to go far.