Miami City Ballet dancer Rebecca King continues to fill us in on the company’s Paris debut, here in a postcard from opening night, including a photo from the long-lasting curtain call, bowing for Ballet Imperial; July 6th, 2011.
“Opening night in Paris was everything I thought it would be… and more. As the curtain rose on the first ballet, you could feel the excitement in the air; the night we had been waiting for had finally arrived. As always, despite nerves and anticipation, you could tell that everyone was having a wonderful time on the stage. The evening ended with spectacularly beautiful piece known as Ballet Imperial. The finale is especially exciting, as the entire cast of 29 dancers move together in perfect unison. Our last curtain call of the evening was the longest any of us could remember. It was such an amazing moment; I will never forget it.
When the curtain fell for the final time, a rush of emotion hit us all. We had just done it! We had just debuted in France; we were now international dancers. Everyone was embracing, crying tears of joy, and congratulating each other on a successful opening night performance in Paris. I felt so proud to be a part of this exceptional group of dancers.
Back-stage celebration
The next day, our artistic director, Edward Villella, shared his emotions with us, tearfully telling us how proud he was of us, saying, “I love you guys.” You could tell he was on cloud nine, and we are right up there with him.
Thursday evening brought our second Paris show, which was met with even more enthusiasm. watched the final ballet, Twyla Tharp’s In The Upper Room, from the front of the house because I wanted to see how the audience reacted to this work. The audience always loves this energetic piece and the Parisians were no different. Everyone was on their feet as soon as the curtain rose for bows. They just wouldn’t stop clapping and cheering! The cast had two curtain calls and the audience continued to show their appreciation for over five minutes. What a positive reaction!
Dear Miami, it seems as if Paris has taken a liking to your Miami City Ballet.”
Rebecca King will keep us posted on the burgeoning love affair.
