Mara Galeazzi also disappeared during the evening - she did her Prologue solo but vanished before the end of the scene, and someone else came on for her in the Jewels section of Act 3.

Looks like some of the gremlins Mandy reported about the rehearsal have crept into the performance. Let's hope the rest of the run goes well.

Anna

It was interesting that Monica Mason has been sitting in the Grand Tier for the Prologue/Act I, which started 7/8 minutes late (for what reason, I wonder?), but was clearly down in the wings and able to be on stage to make an announcement very quickly about Johan's injury at the strategic moment just before the Lilac Fairy's appearance to the Prince.

Given what happened when Alina had to retire from Manon last year (the mad dash from home by Taxi for Jaimie Tapper to take her place), it was also interesting that Federico Bonelli was standing by (although not changed for the part). Does anyone know if it is policy to have dancers ready to step in for the Principal roles or was Federico there for a specific reason?

Poor Natasha - her SB seems to be jinxed. She lost her Aurora before the end on the opening night last March and now she loses her Prince on the opening night of this season.

More considered thoughts on the performance to follow....

Graham

In response to this, citing S.F. Ballet as my example, and I think the
Joffrey as well, it is usual to have company members sign in by 7 even when they are not dancing or taking the warm up class, specifically for
such reasons. I cannot cite instances, but I do know such sudden
substitutes have occurred, but infrequently, since Tomasson became artistic director. Usually, however, the substitutes happen before the
curtain goes up and the alternates are announced before the orchestra
starts.

I thought Cojocaru was absolutely radiant in Act I, especially in the amazing series of fast turns she did in the solo.

The late start, and the fact that Kobborg wandered off stage during rhe court dances makes me wonder if his fitness was already suspect, and so his cover (clearly Bonelli) would be kept on standby.

Cuthbertson was graciousness personified as the Lilac, and Morera stood out in the Prologue as Temperament. McGorian was a particularly lovely Queen.

Putrov danced a most outstanding Bluebird, and was well matched with Salerno

All images © John Ross

I'm afraid I can't agree with Fiz about row V in the stalls. To me they (but particularly V12-20) and row W are some of the best seats in the house.

I'm greatly saddened that Mr Kobborg is injured and wish him well for a complete recovery (rather that just speedy).

Martin

We were right on the end nearest the right hand aisle, and it was fine for my husband, who is 6', but I am 5'4", and both of my teenage daughters are shorter than that - the youngest spent the evening trying to see between people's shoulder gaps and the three of us had much the same problem! We are going to see 'Mayerling' with Alina nd Kobborg (I very much hope!) - not the kids, just me and my husband! - and will be in C 22 and 23. I'll probably dislocate my neck, but it's worth it!

Dear Fiz,

Lucky you.

I think myself and a friend are booked for Jonny Cope on 26 March. If it's not impolite, have you considered using the kiddy whoopee cushions that are available from the entrance foyer desk free of charge?

I'm only 5ft 6ins and have absolutely no scruples whatsoever in using one to overcome either gentle giants or ladies with big hair.

Martin

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