National Ballet of Canada – Fall Mixed Program/World Premiere by Aszure Barton

reviewed by Paula Citron
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Fall Mixed Program
National Ballet of Canada
Choreography by Aszure Barton, George Balanchine and Jerome Robbins
At the Four Seasons Centre until Nov. 29
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The National Ballet’s fall mixed program is a stunner. Even if you’re not a ballet fan, you should buy a ticket to this show.

The main event is Aszure Barton’s world premiere Watch Her, a fascinating deconstruction of a romantic relationship told through fragments. Everyone on the stage is an aspect of the principal female, all passion and all coldness. Sonia Rodriguez commands the stage as the throughline.

The fascinating movement is a mix of pedestrianisms and virtuosity, yet so densely packed that there are layers within layers of meaning. Barton’s gestural language and facial expressions add intriguing detail. The ballet is compelling in its darkness.

Jerome Robbins’ Glass Pieces is a brilliant physical manifestation of Philip Glass’ music, while George Balanchine’s The Four Temperaments is a neoclassical tour de force.

The dancing is absolutely radiant. I can’t imagine a mixed program better than this.

The National Ballet’s fall mixed program continues at the Four Seasons Centre until Nov. 29.