Review: PAUL TAYLOR DANCE COMPANY at Lincoln Center is Thrilling

"Let's Dance," the 2018 Season at Lincoln Center for the Paul Taylor American Modern Dance Company is now happening for the month of March. Those of us that are ardent fans will not be disappointed. For people that are new to the company's extraordinary talents, you're in for a real treat. We attended the Saturday, March 10 matinee performance. The captivated audience encompassed people of all ages including families with youngsters and teens. And with multiple programs that feature different dances available, you can enjoy attending more than once this season.

The program opened with "Arden Court" with choreography by Paul Taylor, music by William Boyce, set and costumes by Gene Moore and lighting by Jennifer Lipton. The Conductor is Donald York. The dance was first performed in 1981 and now more than 35 years later, it continues to entrance its audience. "Arden Court" welcomes spring with a dance that showcases the graceful athleticism of the company's male dancers along with stunning partnering. The backdrop of a rose with its blooming petals sets the ideal mood for this piece as it unfolds with spectacular leaps, jumps, and turns. The dancers include Michael Trusnovec, Parisa Khobdeh, Sean Mahoney, Eran Bugge, Laura Halzack, Michael Apuzzo, Michael Novak, George Smallwood and Alex Clayton.

"Gossamer Gallants" added a whimsical touch to the program. First performed in 2011, it enjoys choreography by Paul Taylor, music by Bedrich Smetana, set and costumes by Santo Loquasto, and lighting by Jennifer Tipton. The Conductor is David LaMarche. This dance is a playful and buggy "battle of the sexes." At first, amorous male fireflies struggle to attract the aloof female insects. But the males' situation is hardly improved when the females finally give them the attention they were seeking. The clever choreography and fun interplay make this piece unforgettable. "Gossamer Gallants" also highlights the company's ability to bring a sense of humor and storytelling to their performances. The dancers include James Samson, Michelle Fleet, Eran Bugge, Laura Halzack, Jamie Rae Walker, Michael Apuzzo, Michael Novak, Heather McGinley, George Smallwood, Lee Duveneck and Alex Clayton.

The program concluded with "Esplanade," a perfect finale for a thrilling afternoon of dance. This timeless, romantic piece was first performed in 1975. It was choreographed by Paul Taylor with music by Johann Sebastian Bach, costumes by John Rawlings, and lighting by Jennifer Tipton. The Conductor is Donald York. This piece embraces the emotionally expressive style and vibrant spirit of the Paul Taylor Dance Company. The dancers' precision, litheness, and remarkable floor work are wonderfully displayed in "Esplanade." The dancers included Robert Kleinendorst, James Samson, Michelle Fleet, Parisa Khobdeh, Jamie Rae Walker, Michael Apuzzo, Christina Lynch Markham, Madelyn Ho, and Kristin Draucker.

The Paul Taylor Dance Company continues to take the universal language of dance to new heights. Dance enthusiasts and many more in the New York metro area are indeed fortunate to have the season available at Lincoln Center through March 31. For ticketing and information, please visit http://www.ptamd.org/.

Photo Credit: Paul B. Goode

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