Arts Ballet Theatre Takes Operatic Journey Through Dance

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Apr 28
2 min read

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Mary Carmen Catoya and Keisuke Nishikawa as Columbina and Harlequine in "Harlequinade," a lively one-act ballet originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to the music of Riccardo Drigo. (Photo by Patricia Laine Romero)

Blending the enchanting worlds of ballet and opera, Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida’s final program for its 2024-25 season is an operatic journey through dance.

Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida’s Spring Gala is on stage at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center on Saturday, April 26 and the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, April 27.

The company will showcase "Markitanka" (La Vivandière), choreographed by Saint Leon to the delightful music of Cesare Pugni. Although not related to the opera theme, the piece adds a touch of vivaciousness and charm to the evening, delighting audiences with its classical style and lively spirit.

Arts Ballet Theatre will showcase "Markitanka" (La Vivandière), choreographed by Saint Leon to the delightful music of Cesare Pugni. (Photo by Patricia Laine Romero)

The highlight of the evening is the exquisite pas de deux from "La Traviata," set to Giuseppe Verdi’s iconic score. This poignant ballet piece captures the tragic beauty of Verdi’s opera, showcasing the emotional depth of Vladmir Issaev’s choreography.

Following the operatic theme, in collaboration with The Opera Atelier, the show also features excerpts from Vladimir Issaev’s "La Favorita" from Donizetti’s beloved opera. The tragedy and passion shines through in every step. The performance illustrates the drama and romance of the original opera, enriched by the virtuosity of Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida’s exceptional dancers.

Ayami Sato in Vladmir Issaev's "La Favorita." In the final program of the season, Arts Ballet Theatre, in collaboration with The Opera Atelier, will feature excerpts from Vladimir Issaev's "La Favorita." (Photo by Patricia Laine Romero)

This exquisite program ends with "Harlequinade," a lively one-act ballet originally choreographed by Marius Petipa to the music of Riccardo Drigo.

The charming piece, recreating the Italian commedia dell'arte, presents the whimsical tale of Harlequin and Columbine as they outwit Columbine’s father who wishes to keep the lovers apart.

It follows the delightful story of true love triumphing over all obstacles with the aid of the Good Fairy.

Adapted as a ballet in 1900, Harlequinade fell out of trend in European companies until it was revived by Russian American choreographer George Balanchine for the New York City Ballet in 1965.

Harlequinade has long been a "forgotten" ballet, with only a few restorations within the past hundred years. However, thanks to Issaev’s extensive research, Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida's production of the ballet represents the original storyline, and upholds the classical style in which it was first choreographed, while still maintaining a fresh and exciting atmosphere.

Arts Ballet Theatre was founded and is under the direction of Vladimir Issaev.