Edge of Vision engages the senses with three diverse dances
A visual and aural gem in Boston Ballet’s Perception trilogy
Rosaline O’Conner
Boston Ballet’s Edge of Vision, a three-part performance featuring original choreography and eclectic music, grips its audience with stunning sensory detail.
Part of the Perception trilogy of dances in the Ballet’s spring season, Edge of Vision is able to employ all of the company’s top talent more effectively than their traditional ballets.
The first component of the program is Helen Pickett’s “Eventide,” commissioned in 2008 featuring music by minimalist composer Philip Glass and sitar player Ravi Shankar.
Four principal couples take part in this performance. Kudos to the production manager Benjamin Phillips for designing a set that perfectly matches the flowing, exotic ambience of the music. For much of the work, a shimmering metallic sheet envelops the background, sparkling as the set gradually changes colors. Ravi Shankar’s sitar and Jan Garbarek’s saxophone are intense and pulsating, matching the sensuality of the dancers.
Finnish choreographer Jorma Elo features five principal couples in the world premier of “Bach Cello Suites”. The familiar classical music, played by Boston Ballet lead cellist Ron Lowry, is a tender background to a performance by all the company’s veteran stars. The length of dancers Dusty Button and Lasha Khozashvili is breathtaking — the extension that Khozashvili can get on his movements is noticeable. A weaving geometric structure floats above the stage, slowly shifting angles with the music. It’s simple but mesmerizing.
Principal dancer Jeffrey Cirio displayed his athleticism in the final act, “Celts.” The Lila York choreography, scored to a mix of Irish step music, features the high-flying Cirio and two principal couples. Cirio received multiple standing ovations for his quick Irish jig steps and dynamic, tireless leaps; fittingly, he opened and closed the performance.
Lia Cirio, sister of Jeffrey Cirio and a 12-year veteran of Boston Ballet, was paired with Khozashvili for “Celts.” She brings explosive energy, like her brother, but with more aggression.
A sequence to watch in “Celts” is the drum piece with all male performers. The deep beat flows with the momentum as the dancers flip, leap, and roll in harmony, showcasing their strength.
Edge of Vision runs until May 10, and the Boston Ballet season ends with Thrill of Contact on May 24.