BWW Reviews: THE MERRY WIDOW at Bass Performance Hall

From the downbeat of the divine Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra, led to perfection by the talented Michael Moricz, to the final company bow, led by the show's original choreographer, Ronald Hynd, The Merry Widow offers an enchanted evening at Bass Performance Hall.

For one weekend only, Texas Ballet Theater invites audiences on a dazzling trip to Paris in this three-act neoclassical ballet with grace, glamour and a great sense of humor. Paying attention to every fine detail (especially Roberta Guidi Di Gano's lavish costumes and scenery), the audience is dazzled not only by the footwork, but by the elegance of each scene.

The Merry Widow was created in 1975 for The Australian Ballet, adapted from the operetta written by Franz Lehar (adapted by John Lanchberry and Alan Abbott). Like many operettas, this story is filled with over-the-top characters, multiple subplots and infinite details, which creates an exciting, although somewhat complicated, story. As this is a ballet, the story occasionally takes the backseat to the steps. Still, the entire company of exquisite dancers proves themselves as capable artists and skilled storytellers with undoubtedly masterful technique.

As the titular widow, Hanna, Carolyn Judson gently bourées away with the show on her delicate shoulders. As she entered atop a grand staircase in a black, floor-length gown, Ms. Judson's first steps received applause from a sharp audience, seemingly aware of her prestige. With her youthful presence, Ms. Judson has the excitement of a young ballerina receiving her first pair of pointe shoes (prior to any blistering). With every step exquisitely executed, she remains elegant and engaging with each moment she is onstage. Simply stated, she appears weightless and enchanting.

As her suitor, Count Danilo, dancer Carl Coomer is charismatic and humorous. He is as strong of an actor as he is a dancer. Particularly in his vision of Hannah at the ball, Mr. Coomer dominates every leap and turn with ease.

Jiyan Dai and Leticia Oliveira are a perfect pair as lovers Camille De Rosillion and Valencienne. With great skill, and even greater chemistry, Mr. Dai and Miss Oliveira provide many romantic, sensual moments, yet also bring some lighthearted comedy to the story.

As party guests, can-can dancers and other supporting characters, the show's ensemble is given wonderful moments by Ronal Hynd's memorizing choreography (staged by Steven Woodgate), particularly those pieces featuring the men, who are perfectly synchronized, animated and masculine. The athletic Simon Wexler, as the lead Pontevedrian dancer in Act Two, earned well-deserved praise from the audience, as did Act One's dazzling trio of undersecretaries, and Robin Bangert as the alluring Magda.

Although navigating the story may be a greater challenge than conventional ballets like Cinderella, Sleepy Beauty or The Nutcracker where the audiences are familiar with the narrative, this delightful company of incredible artists provides a sublime evening of this rarely seen ballet. Filled with laughs, leaps and lovers, The Merry Widow offers an exclusive opportunity to explore this rarely produced tale.

Texas Ballet Theater performs The Merry Widow at Ft. Worth's Bass Performance Hall through Sunday, February 8th, 2015. Tickets are available online at www.texasballettheater.org.

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