Stanton Welch's 'Romeo and Juliet'

Having never read, studied or watched Romeo and Juliet, seeing it for the first time as a ballet was a make or break experience. It has all the classic ingredients for a good night at the ballet, but Stanton Welch’s choreographic twists and unique theatrical touch made me fall in love with Shakespeare’s most widely known tragedy; I could almost say Romeo and Juliet is now one of my favourite ballets. It has all the physically breathtaking beauty of classical ballet, but the Houston Ballet brought a unique joy and warmth in their dancing which aided in enlivening the characters and the emotion in the tragedy.

The choreography, the set and the simplicity in the concept of the colour-blocking in the costume design were essential in capturing the rivalry between the families, and the atmosphere in the lively town of Verona in Shakespeare’s imagination. Welch’s extensive use of lifts served a dual purpose. The physicality and strength of the dancers was a thing to be marvelled at, as was the magic of seeing the ballerinas float, turn and extend their graceful limbs in space, with seemingly little effort. It was romance in dance at its very best, and set the perfect tone of storytelling.

The company’s execution and technical precision were certainly a welcome sight and I found in my eyes a battle between focussing on the dancers’ exquisite balance, and admiring the bigger picture of swirling bodies and emotional music.

Roberta Guidi di Bagno’s exquisite set of twinkling candles, vast four-poster beds and a singularly breathtaking black curtain was absolutely beautiful. This in combination with the juxtaposition of the reds and powder blues of the Capulets and Montagues created a theatre experience which dripped in the atmosphere of its characters and setting. I will say no more, as my words cannot recreate this unique experience.

It was incredible to be able to see the Houston Ballet perform as part of the Australian Ballet’s 2016 season; especially in a ballet as packed in emotion as Romeo and Juliet. Romeo and Juliet was an all-round success and ended my week with a little packet of dramatic energy.

Now to the movie; never say no to a bit of Leo.

Love, Ingrid