Richmond Ballet brings ‘Sleeping Beauty’ to life

The performance of “Sleeping Beauty” by the Richmond Ballet deserved the many cheers, clapping and a standing ovation it received.

Bombastic dancing occurred in time with the music. Gracefully, the dancers cross the stage while kicking their legs fast enough to remind one of a hummingbird, sometimes jumping in symmetry.

The crown and sequins on the costumes added to the mystique of the characters, especially the Lilac Fairy (Lauren Fagone). The lights briefly changed the appearance of people’s clothes when the curtains were raised.

A few strobe flashes announced the appearance of the wicked fairy, Carabosse (Malcolm Burn). His kilt was so large it briefly masked the two dancers behind him. In the next act, Puss -N- Boots (Thomas Ragland) and the White Cat (Maggie Small) behaved flirtatiously to the glee of the crowd.

After the second scene, the lighting made it appear that the Prince and Puss – N – Boots walked on thin air while crossing an incomplete bridge, which was a definite crowd pleaser. Having the bridge appear to come out by itself was also impressive.

The second scene revolved around flowers. Knowing how roses affect people in ballets, one may have expected Aurora to have fallen asleep after her first rose. But it was only after giving her mother eight roses that she was tricked. Carabosse in disguise, gave a posey. After being cut, Aurora danced around the crowd, seemingly to imply that she was still well. But the wicked fairy still succeeded, and Aurora fell asleep for 100 years, waiting for her prince to kiss her awake.