Second Programme Of N.Z. Ballet

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29906, 21 August 1962, Page 15

Second Programme Of N.Z. Ballet

The second programme of the New Zealand Ballet, presented for the first time in Christchurch at the Theatre Royal last evening, has something for everyone The range of interest is considerable, and t>he presentation shows how varied is the talent now available here. “Les Patineurs." which has been frequently seen in Christchurch in recent years, is always a favourite, and it was danced last evening in pleasing style. The white pas de deux of Kirsten Ralov and Poul Gnatt was polished, although it would hardly be called adventurous. The Brown Couples and the Red Girls caught the cheerful spirit of the ballet, and the Blue Girls soon made up for an unfortunate beginning. Arthur Turnbull gave a consistently bright performance and brought something of the necessary brilliance to the presentation "Les Patineurs" was followed by a ballet that is entirely different in movement and tone ’’Pavane" is an evocation of the seventeenth century mode The colours used in it are black and gold; and the donee recalls what may be read of s’atelv ceremony in such works as Castiglione’s ’’Courtier.” The studied beauty of attitude and gesture is remarkable in “Pavane," which is certainly one of the most interesting pieces in the repertoire of the company Most of those who saw

“Flower Festival at Genzano" last evening would agree that it is the gem of this particular programme. Perfect control and graceful spontaneity characterised the performance of Kirsten Ralov here, and Fredbjorn Bjomsson revealed the firm, accomplished style which has made him famous in Scandinavia In addition. “Flower Festival at Genzano" gave the audience more than a glimpse of the engaging personalities of the two dancers

As might be expected, “Do-Wack-A-Do!” is a comic ballet with a strong period flavour Its appeal is somewhat uneven, in that a few of the numbers lacked the feckless sparkle which people now associate with the 'twenties In fact, the best moment in the whole ballet was the Charleston in the epilogue, when the company on stage really struck the authentic note

The “Polovtsian Dances" from “Prince Igor" is an old favourite of the New Zealand Ballet, and is a number which rarely fails to delight the audience. Fredbiorn Biornsson was a bold Chief Warrior last evening, certainly one of the most inspiring leaders in this ballet the company has ever had Christine Smith was outstanding. too. as the Polovtsian Girl, and Valerie Whyman danced the attractive contrasting role of the Persian Princess with great charm The chorus of the Christchurch Harmonic Society added to the power of the music of Borodin, to which the ballet moves; and, as a result, it seemed that the pattern of the dance was more clearly defined The Concert Orchestra of the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation, conducted by Alex Lindsay, again responded splendidly to every call made upon it. —CE.S