Dune D.
Yelp
This is a review of New York City Ballet's performance of Coppelia, presented on Sat, May 26, 2018. Walking up the cascade of steps past the grand fountain where Cher and Nicholas Cage (Moonstruck) turned and greeted each other prior to viewing the opera (La Boheme) that brought tears to Cher's eyes, brought chills to me as my wife and I paused to absorb the moment.
Somewhat similar, the relationship between Dr. Coppleius and the doll Coppelia, was brought to life on the great stage of the NYC Ballet. Gazing around the theater, it was apparent that this would be a sold-out performance. Many children with parents in tow sat quietly as if they had been briefed by the special performance they were about to witness.
As the conductor's wand made it's way downward, the chanting melody, that is clearly the overture of Coppelia, spread it's magic throughout the audience. During this amazing presentation, colorful and authentic costumes of the Austro-Hungarian province were displayed as dancers swirled, leaped, jumped, and twirled to the music and choreography that is Balanchine and Danilova.
Lead dancers, Sterling Hyltin (Swanilda) and Andrew Vedette (Frantz), captivated the audience with their amazing and fascinating feats of dance, enhancing to perfection Leo Delibes's musical score. This performance also consisted of a score of young children whose ballet skills captivated the audience within Acts II and III.
All three acts of Coppelia portray non-stop interaction between the musical score, the dancers, and the synopsis. Overall, the performance is a feast for the eyes, ears, and the emotions. Coppelia is a must see for all ages and the NYC Ballet at Lincoln Center provides that, and more so, and will fill your senses long after the curtain has come down.