NYCB’s “Traditions”

I spent another afternoon at State Theater taking in yet another ballet from the fourth ring.  This performance was a little special: Daniel Ulbricht would debut in Balanchine’s “Prodigal Son.” My sister Dione and I met Daniel when he came to Mobile, and it was his kind invitation that allowed us to go backstage at State Theater and attend a private NYCB rehearsal. It’s always fun to see people I know performing, especially when I think they deserve the attention.

All my fellow bloggers would be at the show too, and before our little planned get-together, I spotted them briefly before the show. In the subway I caught Philip walking to State Theater and later spoke with Evan, blogger at “Dancing Perfectly Free.” She introduced me to her co-blogger Allison. While climbing to the fourth ring, I chatted with Philip and Wei again.

“There are white slips of paper in the programs,” said Philip, which could only mean an unexpected cast change.

“Oh my gosh, please don’t let it be Daniel,” I said. I learned later that it was the next worst case scenario: my favorite, Abi Stafford, would not be dancing the lead in “Square Dance.” I pouted.

Despite her absence, I loved “Square Dance.” Balanchine’s intentions were so evident, especially for me since I’ve danced in more than a few square dances before. I’m not kidding. It’s a long story. Megan Fairchild was Abi’s replacement, and she is such a beautiful dancer. She charms the audience with every glance.

I always adore watching Nikolaj Hubbe perform. Recalling that his farewell performance is upon us, I grew slightly depressed.

After intermission the curtain rose on “Prodigal Son.” Daniel did such a fantastic job. The audience gasped and clapped prematurely for his super-high jumps and endless turns. The end of the piece was so moving, as he climbed slowly into his fathers arms, I understood why audiences have loved the ballet for years.

Daniel and Teresa Reichlen (”The Siren”) got several curtain calls. When Daniel took the stage alone the whole fourth ring cheered excitedly. I raced out to the Promenade for the blogger get-together, where Philip, Evan, Taylor, and Allison were assembled with a few blog readers. We discussed the show and one of the blog fans said before leaving: “I’m going to be in Daniel heaven all week!”

Last on the program was “Four Seasons.” One of my favorites, Sterling Hyltin was the lead in “Winter” and I was really fond of Antonio Carmena in “Fall.” He deserved all of his applause.

After the show, Tonya and I went to post-show dinner at P.J. Clarke’s across the street from State Theater (we spotted Justin Peck walking in the plaza on our way!). Between our chats, we kept peeking across the restaurant windows at the stage door to see if any of our favorite famous dancers stepped out into the evening.