Appealing and mischievous comedic ballet performance, writes Penny Neilson.
Coppelia - Royal New Zealand Ballet
Regent Theatre, Thursday, May 8
The Royal New Zealand Ballet's Coppelia opened last night to an enthusiastic and almost full house at the Regent Theatre and was superbly accompanied by the Southern Sinfonia, led by Nigel Gaynor.
The lavish staging and costumes (on loan from the Australian Ballet) were a delicious optical feast and were enhanced by the beautiful lighting from Jason Morphett.
A firm favourite, Coppelia endears itself to all age groups by incorporating folk and fairy tales with classical repertoire.
The story is relatively simple and portrayed in a colourful and cheeky way, but the subtleties make Coppelia great.
This ballet explores various forms of love; obsession, misguided infatuation and the ultimate form: true love.
The story centres on eccentric Dr Coppelius, his desire for a life-like doll creation in Coppelia and the love triangle that ensues between her and the local village lovers, Swanhilda and Franz.
Mischief and jealousy, assumed identity and deception culminate in true love prevailing, with Swanhilda and Franz marrying, much to the delight of the village.
Lucy Green and Kohei Iwamoto were enchanting as Swanhilda and Franz, and were joined by the always wonderful Sir Jon Trimmer as the somewhat mad but misunderstood inventor.
Green really took command in Act Two; she took control of the stage and made the role her own. Katherine Grange, however, shone throughout, particularly in Act One.
The partnership between her and Jacob Chown was simply a joy to watch; her litheness and his strength were highlights throughout the night.
The Czardas led by Abigail Boyle were another standout. Their portrayal was siren-like and their womanly wiles had the men mesmerised.
The macabre but brilliant Automatons were another visual treat - Paul Mathews as Limbless was a wonderful modern addition to this adaptation.
Coppelia is a mischievous and comedic ballet that will appeal to all. It has a bit of everything: comedy, intrigue and love.
