A sheer curtain drew up to reveal a minimal white set; lights in stark shapes cast down on striking architectural forms. They became the backdrop for the stunning choreography of Jean-Christophe Maillot of Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo and performances by the dancers of Pacific Northwest Ballet.
A beautiful performance of Roméo et Juliette by Pacific Northwest Ballet set to Sergei Prokofiev’s score was held in late February. A ballet detailing one of Shakespeare’s most well-known plays, had both unexpected set design and a masterful portrayal filled with romance by Principal dancers Pantastico as Juliette and Moore as Romeo. The two dancer's movements, weaving together and apart, told a story of young love that was too fragile and therefore damned before it began.
The costume design subtly hinted at the well-known division of the two wealthy families of Verona; the Montagues and the Capulets. Dancers of the Capulet family wore deep, rich colors of red, green and black. While the Montagues, were costumed in airy shades of creams and pastels.
This is PNB’s fourth presentation of Maillot’s “Roméo et Juliette,” but an unforgettable performance that we hope to see again. Next up for PNB is “Director’s Choice” a trio of contemporary works running March 18th through the 27th.
Words Katharine Wimett
Image courtesy of Pacific Northwest Ballet
