Taking centerstage with precision and poise, Miami City Ballet unveils its latest captivating exploration of dance with “Spring Mix.” The program is set to grace the stages of the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami and later at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach, promising to deliver a delightful blend of classical and contemporary ballet. An embodiment of the company’s versatility, “Spring Mix” is a celebration of artistic innovation.
MCB’s third program of the season, “Spring Mix” introduces the audience to a mesmerizing world of movement and emotion, featuring both classical masterpieces and contemporary creations. The ballet enthusiasts will be treated to a diverse repertoire, each piece carefully curated to offer a unique experience.
Among the highlights is the world premiere of “Delight,” a commissioned work by Brazilian choreographer Ricardo Amarante. Known for lacing his ballets with emotion and excitement, Amarante brings a fresh perspective to the stage. The title “Delight” perfectly captures the essence of the piece, with swiftly moving figures illuminated by the vibrant choreography, leaving audiences with a burst of joy and exhilaration.
Amarante’s choice of music for “Delight” adds another layer of complexity to the performance. Breaking away from his usual repertoire, the choreographer collaborates with the baroque master Bach, specifically utilizing the lively “Keyboard Concerto No.1 in D minor.” The music, with its animated movements and touching interludes, serves as a perfect companion to Amarante’s choreographic vision. MCB Artistic Director Lourdes Lopez, who initiated the collaboration with Amarante, emphasizes the significance of this partnership. The ballet is Amarante’s first exploration of Bach’s work and speaks to the company’s skillful ability to push artistic boundaries.
For principal dancer Katia Carranza, who leads the cast alongside Cameron Catazaro, the challenges presented by Amarante’s choreography are invigorating. The quick changes, intricate partnering, and off-balance movements demand precision and agility. Carranza, approaching the end of her illustrious 30-year career with MCB, expresses enthusiasm for the premiere, highlighting the unique and thrilling aspects of Amarante’s work.
Amarante’s hands-on approach to choreography, including his readiness to demonstrate movements himself, contributes to the dancers’ sense of safety and enjoyment. The result is a performance filled with clarity and authenticity, allowing the dancers to spotlight their skills and connect with the audience on a profound level.
The elegant program also features Alonzo King’s “Following the Subtle Current Upstream” and George Balanchine’s timeless classic, “Agon.” The juxtaposition of these diverse pieces creates a rich display of ballet styles and narratives, challenging the dancers and compelling the audience with every move. As MCB corps member Francisco Schilereff notes, the varied repertoire in “Spring Mix” offers a unique opportunity for growth and self-discovery. From the intricate counts and calibrations of Balanchine’s “Agon” to the deep layers of emotion in King’s work, each piece contributes to the dancers’ artistic journey.
“Spring Mix” leaps into hearts and minds this March as Miami City Ballet explores new territories and delights audiences with vividly rich movement and emotion. The company continues to evolve and innovate, and “Spring Mix” remains a resonant illustration of MCB’s enduring dedication to the art of passion, precision, and boundless creativity within ballet.
