RB R&J Reviews RB Reviews Guillem reviews Bussell reviews

During its visit to Beijing, Royal Ballet gives 6 performances of Romeo and Juliet from April 28 to May 2, and 2 Gala performances on May 4 and 5 at the Beijing Exhibition Theater. So far I attended the performances of R&J on 28, 29, May 1, 2 and the Gala on May 4 (and a rehearsal by Darcey Bussell and Igor Zelinsky in the afternoon before the opening).

The opening night was nearly terrible for its bad preparation (the music was especially bad that I thought no one could dance with it, not even Natasha Makarowa!) though Sylvie Guillem was on stage (she was technically very good of course). But the second performance by Darcey and Igor was just excellent. Igor did a very great job that night. His emotion moved all of us a lot. I had always thought he was a good dancer but never realized that he was such an appealing/excellent actor as well. Darcey was a lovely, moving Juliet that night too. I do think she is more Juliet like than Sylvie.

Perhaps stimulated by the earlier wonderful show given by Darcey/ Igor, Sylvie Guillem/ J.Cope's second R&J on May 2 turned very successful. It was almost a great performance. Sylvie danced and acted with her true hart and emotion this time. Even Cope was much better than the first night (though technically not as perfect as Igor was). Their balcony scene was superb. What a pity that they don't do Manon here in Beijing! I do believe the role of Manon must suit Sylvie better than Juliet.

I attended the first Gala as well. But I'll post again after the second/last one (Gala review link).

Just for reference.

Hu Xinxin, Professor, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Beijing