This triple bill of tried and tested ballets (varying from 78th to 123rd performances) was pleasant enough but, for me, let down by the Enigma Variations filling in the sandwich. The other two seemed to offer more opportunity for displays of pure dance, albeit loosely conveying a story in the case of Raymonda. On the other hand, the Variations left me rather cold as we waded through the various characters with the dancers all dressed in attire that must have made their jobs rather constrained and difficult.
The first piece, Concerto, was choreographed by Kenneth MacMillan to music by Shostakovich. It features couples as well groups in support. The coordination seemed outstanding and for me, Lauren Cuthbertson and Reece Clarke stood out in the second movement. The plain stage and simple yellow and orange costumes appealed to my minimalist preferences.
Given that statement, not surprisingly Enigma Variations had less appeal with its quite elaborate set and costumes of Edwardian garb. It is, of course, quite a light and amusing piece but not really what I am looking for. On the other hand, Raymonda gave more opportunity for purer dance, albeit lightly conveying the culmination (a wedding) of a story. The main parts were taken by Sarah Lamb and Vadim Muntagirov who both seemed excellent to me.
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