Great Dancing, Weird Introduction
by millicentpschmidt on 3/19/14Curtis M Phillips Center for Performing Arts - GainesvilleI had a lovely time watching the ballet, but the preamble was painfully awkward and uncomfortable. First the guy comes out to thank the sponsors; I think this is a bit gauche and he needed to practice speaking in front of people (and part of the purpose of the programme) but whatever. Then this woman comes out to say thank you to and present roses to an administrative person who was retiring after 20 years of service. Instead of talking metaphorically about the wonderful ways she contributed to the company (with a few specifics), they listed her duties (she filled out 1099s and stuffed envelopes, etc...). It went on forever and managed to both demean her work and not actually say anything nice about her. I was mortified on her behalf and I didn't even know her. I hope no one else ever retires so other audience members don't have to sit through that horrible display of almost gratitude. As for the ballet: the dancing was lovely and interestingly choreographed. There were a few mistakes, but they didn't detract from the whole experience at all. I'm used to seeing the NYC ballet so my expectations were not super high for a small town performance, but I was delightfully pleased by the performance. Bolero was one of the most amazing dances I've ever seen (thought the costumes were weird). The UF orchestra was amazing! They were incredibly good, and I'd go see them anytime.