Photographing North Carolina Dance Theatre for the better part of two decades has given me the opportunity to see many amazing performers, and dancer Sasha Janes was one of them.
But Janes appears to be on track to exceed his on-stage career as he continues transition to his new role as a choreographer. His latest work, an updated version of Carmen that incorporates local history and themes, is another triumph.
Another dancer I’ve photographed over the past few years, Melissa Anduiza, steps up to the challenge and makes a star turn as the lead character of Carmen. Also turning in wonderful performances are the men vying for her attention, Naseeb Culpepper and Pete Walker, and Anna Gerberich.
As a bonus, this performance opens with George Balanchine’s Western Symphony, set by associate artistic director and former Balanchine muse, Patricia McBride (unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to photograph this piece).
The show gives a sultry start to NCDT’s season.
Pete Walker and Melissa Anduiza in Carmen.Anna Gerberich in her 1930's costumePete Walker warms upMelissa Anduiza and Jordan Leeper share a light momentNaseeb Culpepper and the guardsmenAnna Gerberich and Naseeb Culpepper..Carmen leads a revolt by the mill workersMelissa Anduisa works her charms on Jordan LeeperCarmen has a powerful effect on menGregory Taylor, Melissa Anduiza and Sarah Hayes WatsonJanes added some contemporary moves to the pieceAmazing seduction sequence as Anduiza's Carmen, hands tied behind her back, works her magic on Naseeb Culpepper..Melissa Anduiza and Naseeb Culpepper.A high-flying Sarah Hayes WatsonPete Walker looking dapper.Jordan Leeper, right, and friends take flightPete WalkerCulpepper and Anduiza.Angry Carmen.Baseball players, led by Pete Walker, add another local dimension to the storyCarmen strutsMelissa Anduiza and Pete Walker..Tender momentAnna Gerberich and Naseeb CulpepperCarmen collapsesConclusionTake a bow
