San Francisco’s Smuin Ballet kicked off its 33rd season at the Cowell Theater with “French Kiss,” a program that balances reverence for founder Michael Smuin with bold new choreography. Artistic Director Amy Seiwert emphasized honoring the past without letting it dominate the evening.
Opening tribute to Michael Smuin
The first piece, “Stabat Mater,” revisits a 2002 work created after 9/11. Designer Alexander V. Nichols set the stage with a wall evoking Ground Zero debris, framing Claire Buehler’s portrayal of a grieving mother. Ricardo Dyer’s role suggests a lost love, adding emotional depth before his disappearance at the finale.
New work by My’Kal Stromile
Choreographer‑costumer‑designer My’Kal Stromile introduced an original ballet whose title he describes as an “invented phonetic phrase” meant to capture a moment of mental recalibration. The music‑free prelude features rudimentary movements that echo Egyptian hieroglyphs, while the costumes recall ’80s gym wear in bright reds, blues, and turquoise.
When paired with Logan Martin, Buehler transforms into a “firecracker,” delivering the energy missing earlier. Together they perform to Bach’s “Sinfonia in F Major,” blending classical music with playful, childlike gestures.
Pink Martini tribute
The program concludes with Seiwert’s 2023 tribute to Pink Martini, a nod to 1960s lounge jazz and mid‑century big‑band sounds. The finale features a dance set to Pink Martini’s French cover of “Could We Start Again Please” from “Jesus Christ Superstar,” offering a hopeful, smile‑inducing close.
After the main performance, dancer Logan Martin read a audience‑submitted memory of Michael Smuin, recalling a humorous encounter with a pregnant woman. The ensemble then performed an additional piece to the same Pink Martini song, reinforcing the show’s theme of moving forward while honoring legacy.
“French Kiss” runs through October 18 at the Cowell Theater, 2 Marina Blvd, #260, Fort Mason. Tickets range from $25 to $100.
Original reporting: Mission Local — read the source article.
