Search - The Houston Ballet (Image / Journey / Ghost Dances) on DVD

Two Out of Three is not too bad

05/26/2002

(4 out of 5 stars)

"I saw these three short ballets when they debuted about 10 years ago. This is an excellent recording of the performances. By far the best of the three is "Ghost Dances". Choreographed to folk music originally performed by the famed Chilean group, Inti Illimani, the work is a treat for both the eyes and the ears. The costumes and the power of the three " ghosts" was amazing. Running a close second is "Image", a piece that showcases the then prima ballerina of the Houston Ballet, Janie Parker. Based on the life and death of Marilyn Monroe, this is a somewhat disturbing piece made more so by the very expressive dancing of Ms. Parker. Her performance is haunting. The third ballet, "Journey" did not appeal to me 10 years ago and still does not. The choreography is OK but the atonal music is not for everyone. However, like the title of this review says, two out of three is not too bad. The DVD is well worth owning for "Ghost Dances" alone."

Emotional dance at its finest

Bob Armstrong | Katy, TX USA | 05/29/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The Houston Ballet in its heyday featured some of the world's best dancers and choreographers, as evidenced in this fine recording. In "Ghost Dances," Li Cunxin, along with the other ghosts, projects immense stage presence combined with unforgettable grace, wit, and power. In "Image," Janie Parker shows excellent kinesthetic skills, but her forte lies in reflecting emotion. Her portrayal of Marilyn Monroe is intensely affecting, almost painful to watch in its abrupt changes from agony to joy and back.By the way, don't miss Li Cunxin's riveting autobiography, "Mao's Last Dancer," a 2004 publication. It's not only a revealing glimpse into the world of ballet, but also dramatizes how vast a gulf exists between the medieval living conditions in central China and the comforts of the affluent Western world."