Stunning show of artistry

Ballet Nacional de Cuba, Lowry, Salford

DANCERS from the Ballet Nacional de Cuba lived up to their reputation as some of the best in the world during yesterday’s performance of Magia de la Danza.

But they were outclassed by one particular dance superstar and fellow Cuban Carlos Acosta, who went down a storm despite a fleeting 10-minute performance.

The dance company, founded by ballet legend Alicia Alonso, spent the past two nights showcasing seven extracts from classical ballets, such as “Giselle”, “Swan Lake” and “The Nutcracker” as part of the Lowry’s 10th anniversary year celebrations.

As guest dancer with the company where he started his career, audiences familiar with his reputation as the greatest male ballet dancer of all time had to wait until the second half to catch sight of their hero.

It was during the extract of ‘Don Quixote’ that his stunning natural talent and years of hard work was revealed on stage.

During the brief performance of Basilio, the town barber, he showcased equal measures of power, precision and artistry by leaping and spinning round the stage full of charm and in total control.

Partnered with premier dancer Viengsay Valdes, his athletic ability was well matched with hers as she performed staggering pirouettes and beautiful controlled lines when en pointe.

And rapturous applause during their brief partnership showed how pleased the audience were to have the Cuban Billy Elliot back in the North-West.

Over 20 fellow dancers in the company took on a multitude of roles in this selection of classic ballets, with the female premiers outshining their young, and sometimes less confident, male counterparts.

Special mention must go to Sadaise Arencibia who portrayed Giselle and Odette, Queen of the Swans beautifully, with elegant lines, subtle strength and performances to break your heart.