Wonderful dancing, inspired choreography, fabulous costumes, meticulously crafted scenery and beautiful music -- the only thing missing at Saturday's performance of the classical ballet Coppelia was the capacity audience it deserved.
The Ballet Theatre of Maryland brought to Maryland Hall for the Creative Arts two performances of the 1870 ballet based on a fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffman, with music by Leo Delibes.
"Coppelia" refers to a life-size doll with enamel eyes and a porcelain face, created by an eccentric, mysterious toymaker in his workshop where no visitors were welcome.
Dr. Coppelius has a large collection of mechanical dolls in his workshop/laboratory, but his prized possession is the dancing Coppelia, whom he places on his balcony.
The fickle Franz flirts with her the day before his wedding to Swanilda, angering her. She and her friends later enter Dr. Coppelius' workshop, but he quickly chases off all the intruders except Swanilda. Franz soon arrives, and Coppelius tries to drug him so that he can steal his soul, which would bring life to his Coppelia.
Swanilda changes into Coppelia's costume to fool Dr. Coppelius into believing his doll has come alive, and she and Franz escape in time for their wedding.
True to Arthur Saint-Leon's original, Dianna Cuatto's spirited choreography was filled with humor, while exhibiting all the hallmarks associated with her work: making great pairs, showcasing apprentice dancers and teaching children professional discipline.
A German-looking village had been painstakingly created in a painted backdrop. Dazzling costumes in shades such as copper, turquoise and sapphire blue, and distinctive boots on men dressed as peasants added beauty to every scene. A large cast of dancers furnished all the zest and youth the ballet required.
Two ballerinas played the leading role of Swanilda. On Saturday evening, Jamie Skates danced this role requiring technical virtuosity through dance forms from Spanish to Scottish along with simulating aspects of a mechanical doll. The Swanilda role also demands acting talent and comic timing.
At the top of her form, Skates also displayed her usual unmistakable affection for her partner and husband, Bryan Skates, who played Franz. The couple's technical virtuosity was noteworthy; they moved with a tender lyricism that was a joy to behold.
Meagan Helman danced the role of Coppelia with precision and appropriately stiff, doll-like arms.
Each of Swanilda's friends slid and leaped athletically, added comedy and exhibited their descriptive elements: Alexis Decker as "The Brave One" boldly leading the pack, Margaret Hannah as "The Vain One" moving haughtily, Christi Bleakly tripping as "The Klutzy One," Scali Riggs as "The Gigglepuss," Kathryn Carlson as "The Shy One" who hung back, and Jessica Fry as "The Scaredy Cat" walking on her heels.
Apprentice Kelly Braga paired with Bryan Skates for a spirited mazurka, or Polish folk dance.
Dancers David McAlister, Jerry "Chip" Scuderi, Brian Walker and Calder Taylor contributed athleticism and excitement. As eccentric Dr. Coppelius, Al Kessler brought passion for the doll Coppelia, a sinister quality toward Franz and a touching pathos at the end.
The children's admirable performances showed they'd spent many hours in rehearsal.