Millennial Notes Leguizamo & Taccone Transform Latin Colonial History by Tyler Jeffreys Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past. —George Orwell (1984) “Kiss my Aztec!” conjures up an ancient indigenous identity that lurks in all our DNA. As the cast sings at the end: “The World…
John Neumeier Brings Spectacle, Soul to Grown-Up Fairy Tale by Pamela Feinsilber This month’s most theatrical production—the one with the most electrifying performances, eye-opening sets and costumes, and heart-wringing story—is not at a playhouse but in the opera house. That would be San Francisco Ballet’s “The Little Mermaid,” with choreography (plus scenic, costume, and…
Finn & Lapine Make Musical Magic from 80s Outsiders by Evelyn Arevalo & Barry David Horwitz The “Falsettos” New York Jewish family and their friends live on the margins of 80s mainstream hetero life. The seven top flight actors express themselves in funny, regretful songs and in hilarious dance moves. Playing witty Seinfeld-type characters—gay…
Helgi Tomasson Sets Petipa’s Classic with Sumptuous Beauty by Pamela Feinsilber Whether fairy tale, Disney film, or classic ballet, “Sleeping Beauty” is a story of love trumping hate. It starts with the curse of the Fairy of Darkness, who, angered at not being invited to baby Beauty’s christening, proclaims that the girl will die…