‘Coppelia’ Has Shining Moments Conservatory Ballet Theatre’s Dancers Exhibit Near-Perfect Technique In Refreshing Third Act Of The Romantic Ballet

“Coppelia,” staged by Conservatory Ballet Theatre Thursday, June 8, at The Met

“Coppelia” is an all-time ballet favorite. What makes the ballet so popular is its simple storyline, energetic choreography and traditionally colorful sets. If done well, the three elements combine to keep the audience captivated throughout the performance.

Conservatory Ballet Theatre’s Thursday night production of “Coppelia” did not quite find that perfect combination. It’s the romantic story of Franz and Swanilda, who are to be married. But Franz develops a crush on Coppelia, the daughter of a toymaker. Franz and Swanilda sneak into the toymaker’s shop, and discover that Coppelia is nothing but a wind-up doll.

For a ballet company its size, the troupe has excellent costumes and sets. Dancers in vibrant tutus skirted across the stage throughout the ballet, and the sets created the atmosphere of a European village. Both helped to unleash imagination and energy on the stage.

But for much of the ballet, the energy seemed to rest with the costumes and sets, not the dancers. Like the doll Coppelia, who needs to be wound up to in order to appear life-like, Acts I and II could have used a little winding of their own. Daniel Barnett and Jaci Rice danced the roles of Franz and Swanilda. But for most of Act I they flitted, flirted and frolicked across stage, stopping occasionally to strike a pose. Theatrics should have been used to enhance the dancers’ performances, not overtake them.

The highlight of Act I was the Mazurka. Dancers from the Metropolitan School of Ballet capered through the festive number, bringing enjoyment and life to Act I.

Everything came together in Act III. Throughout this refreshing act it became clear Conservatory Ballet Theatre has several truly talented dancers. They mastered exciting and intricate choreography. It was hard to take your eyes off of Rice with her strength, grace and nearly perfect technique. Barnett exuded a stage presence beyond anything that can be taught in dance class. Rice and Barnett complemented each other as they eased through a technically difficult pas de deux.

Other members of the company danced marvelously, as well. Too bad it was all saved for the third act when their talents could have been showcased throughout the entire performance.

Although the performance was enjoyable, perhaps if the company stages the ballet again, it will utilize its full range of talent to completely bring the magic of “Coppelia” to life.

MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: HIGHLIGHT The emergetic and competent dancing of Jaci Rice and Daniel Barnett during the Act III pas de deux.