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Two ballets, Passion and Emma Bovary, make their premiere at the Four Seasons Centre in Toronto, captivating audiences with their exploration of true romance versus the mere pursuit of love.
Passion, choreographed by James Kudelka, is an abstract ballet that explores the concept of romantic attraction. Although the ballet features a faux-classical performance by eleven talented dancers, it falls short of truly capturing the essence of romance. The modern dress couple brings a more genuine approach to their relationship, showcasing their fiery chemistry through intense partnering and difficult movements.
In contrast, Emma Bovary, an hour-long adaptation of Gustav Flaubert’s novel, delves into the pursuit of love and the rush of dopamine that propels the protagonist, Emma Bovary. Choreographer Helen Pickett brings this timeless story to life on the stage, condensing 300 pages into a 61-minute ballet that captivates the audience from start to finish.
In this adaptation, Hannah Galway shines as Emma, breathing life into the character with her daring and captivating performance. The ballet beautifully captures the emotions of the story, creating a theatrical experience that leaves a lasting impact on the audience.
While Passion falls short of delivering the passion it promises, Emma Bovary truly embodies the pursuit of intense emotion and the complexities of love. The ballet serves as a reminder of the noble quest for passion, even in the face of tragic consequences, shining a light on the captivating world of ballet.
Eliminating the star-rating system, The Globe acknowledges works of excellence with a critic’s pick designation to align with coverage of arts and dance, celebrating the incredible talent and storytelling seen in the world of ballet.”
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