International debut of New National Theater Ballet, Tokyo at the stage of the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. was a great success. Company's superb performance of "Raymonda" on February 17, 2008 brought numerous certain calls, cheers, and a standing ovation. It is wonerful choreographed and a high quality elegant production. Ballet Company from Japan has done an excellent job on putting on a traditional "Raymonda" memorable performance. The sets and costumes by Luisa Spinatelli looked really great. The Company, directed by Asami Maki, has a good future. Artistic Director of New National Theater Ballet, Tokyo has a very good taste. Company's repertoire includes classical and 20th-centery works, as well as original creations by Artistic Director Asami Maki. Not only leading dancers but also the rest of the cast were just great. A physical beauty and sensitivity of Motoijma Miwa as Raymonda, her light-as-a-feather dancing and tenderness charmed the audience. Morita Kenaro as Abderachman showed not only a good technical skill but also his artistic ability. The performance was the more spectacular with inclusion of internationally known star, Denys Matviyenko as Jean de Brienne. His extreme athleticism and skill and also a technically perfect performance made this production more memorable. This year The Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. provides us with world class entertainment. |