New Haven – On Saturday, November 7, the American Ballet Theatre (ABT) Studio Company filled the historic Shubert Theatre with a dazzling program of eight eclectic ballet selections. The junior company, composed of dancers between the ages of 17 and 21, is widely regarded as a training ground for the next generation of ballet stars.
Program Highlights
The evening opened with “Stars and Stripes,” a patriotic piece set to the music of John Philip Sousa. The performance featured a pas de deux that highlighted the technical precision and expressive partnership of the young dancers.
Other standout numbers included “Cerulean Skies” and a lively rendition of “Don Quixote,” each offering a blend of classical technique and modern flair. A solo performance to Art Tatum’s “Tatum Pole Boogie” showcased dancer Wendel Teles, whose charismatic style evoked the charm of a 1940s musical film star.
The program also presented a moving interpretation of “The Sleeping Beauty (Rose Adagio).” Princess Aurora, performed by Delfina Nelson‑Todd, demonstrated remarkable balance and poise as she navigated a series of intricate turns while interacting with four suitors, embodying both strength and grace.
Audience Reaction
Audience members responded with enthusiastic applause after each piece, and many, including the reviewer’s own husband, were struck by the athleticism and precision on display. The dancers’ ability to execute bold leaps, seamless turns, and intricate lifts left the crowd holding their breath throughout the performance.
One particularly inventive segment, “Dig the Say,” incorporated a red ball that the dancers rolled and tossed across the stage, adding a playful, athletic element to the choreography.
Community Impact
For many in attendance, the show marked a first live ballet experience. The reviewer noted that the performance sparked a newfound appreciation for the art form, describing it as a “gift” that opened a door to future cultural engagement. The program’s notes highlighted that 85 percent of the dancers in the ABT Studio Company are alumni of the American Ballet Theatre’s training program, many of whom go on to join professional companies worldwide.
After the curtain fell, a young girl was seen twirling on College Street beneath the theater’s lights, a heart‑warming reminder of the lasting impression the performance left on the community.
Looking Ahead
The ABT Studio Company’s tour continues this fall, bringing its blend of classical repertoire and contemporary works to audiences across the country. New Haven residents who enjoyed the show are encouraged to follow the dancers’ careers, as many are poised to become the next generation of leading artists in major ballet companies.
Tickets for future performances are available through the Shubert Theatre box office and the ABT website.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
