Maria67

I was thinking I might wait to post my opinion until at least a second viewing. It seems most have mixed feelings towards the acts and so far I agree with what has been said, therefore have nothing particularly interesting to add. This was my first viewing of Ms Osipova and I think it'd safe to say I have been won over. She certainly gives 100%. Her energy reminded me of my favourite ballerina Sara Mearns - I lived in NY for a while - which I was pleasantly surprised with. Ms Mearns also has suffered from injuries in the past and I wonder if this energy is the culprit for both of them. I fear I'm becoming too off track though so I will stop. A mixed evening. I enjoyed Act II for the music although I found it very strange to be paired with anything other than Balanchine. I wonder if my lukewarm reaction will improve upon a second viewing? I may notice more things with the benefit of hindsight...

I don't usually post my thoughts on performances I see, preferring to read all others. However, after last night I feel compelled to say just how beautiful the performance was. I've only seen one other performance this run sadly. That cast was Choe and Zuchetti. But after last night I feel all other casts I've seen in recent years have been blown out of the water, and almost pale in comparison. It was truly something special. Francesca Hayward and Marcelino Sambe are both very cute. In particular, Hayward reminded me almost of Cojocaru in a few places. They must have similar physiques. Hayward is a beautiful Ashton dancer and last night it showed. Sambe hasn't been a dancer I've noticed much before, but after last night I feel he outshines all the principals in this role. He has a very natural ballon and charm. They worked very well together. I, like many others, left the theatre with a big smile on my face. I won't add more and I'm sure others can sum up last night much better than myself. But it was truly something special.