City Ballet of San Diego's "Carmen" Review

This past weekend, City Ballet of San Diego performed two stunning pieces at Spreckels Theatre downtown: Four Seasons (Vivaldi) and Carmen (Bizet).

The production began with Four Seasons, performed to Antonio Vivaldi most popular score, with the arrangement prepared by Max Richter. The production was world premiere of Geoff Gonzalez's fast-paced and innovative new ballet, which beautifully embodied the spirit of all four seasons, from the light-hearted and fast-paced "Spring" to the soulful "Winter," as dancers leap through falling snow. Though all four dances (and the interlude between fall and winter) work together as one, the individual seasons feature enough personality and strength to stand on their own.

Photo by Chelsea Penyak

Though the choreography is quick and complex, "Spring" is closest in form to a classic piece, featuring a corps, a duo, and a pas de deux. "Spring" features petal-like short green skirts and quick, frenzied choreography to Vivaldi's music, including a pas de deux performed by longtime City Ballet dancers Erica Alvardo and Derek Lauer. "Spring" exudes the excitement of a new year, new possibilities.

Which makes the burning red lights, feverish violins, and wild energy of "Summer" stand out even more. From the perfectly polished trio (Emily Dietz, Katie Spagnoletti, and Karim Yamada) to "Summer's" softer moments during the Ariana Gonzalez and Brian Heil pas de deux, "Summer" is a vibrant dance from beginning to end.

"Fall" features only three dancers (Ryosuke Ogura, Sean Rollofson, and Kaylee Skeleton) who intertwine together for a picturesque performance. Skeleton was seamlessly supported by Ogura and Rollofson through turns as the trio glided across the stage.

After a brief interlude, featuring barefooted dancers and contemporary choreography, Four Seasons concludes with "Winter," a cold piece with magical snow that envelops the dancers. Featuring Lucas Ataide, "Winter" brings Four Seasons to a hopeful conclusion that resonates with the beginning of "Spring."

Lighting for Four Seasons was produced by Stephen Judson, while the colorful costumes were designed by dancer Karin Yamada.

Photo by Chelsea Penyak

The City Ballet of San Diego also performed Carmen, the classic 1875 French production originally composed by Georges Bizet, with arrangement by Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin. Carmen tells the story of the beautiful Carmen, a cigarette factory worker, and her ultimately tragic relationship with soldier Don Jose. The piece was choreographed by Elizabeth Wistrich, with detailed costumes designed by David Heuvel.

Ariana Gonzalez starred as Carmen in the evening performances, playing the deft temptress with a sultry grace in every pirouette. Opposite her as the dark Don Jose was real-life husband Geoff Gonzalez. Carmen featured a lively mixture of twirling smugglers, staccato soldiers and humorous street urchins to bring an abbreviated version of Carmen to life.

Photo by Chelsea Penyak

Lighting for the production was designed by Stephen Judson, while the sets were provided courtesy of Stivanello of New York. Both pieces were performed in accompaniment with the City Ballet Orchestra, conducted by John Nettles.

City Ballet of San Diego's 2017–18 season has yet to be announced, however their July 31st–August 18th summer intensive is currently taking applications. Guest faculty for the intensive include Stella Abrera (American Ballet Theatre), Ashley Bouder (New York City Ballet), and Jonathan Stafford (School of American Ballet).

Do you want to help City Ballet of San Diego continue to grow? Save the date for the Silver Jubilee Gala, the ballet's 25th Anniversary fundraiser held at Hotel del Coronado. With a performance by the Mighty Untouchables and a gourmet dinner for all guests, the Silver Jubilee Gala is not to be missed. The event is October 7th; learn more on the City Ballet of San Diego website.

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