Smuin Ballet Concludes 30th Anniversary Season with Dance Series 2 Featuring Elvis-Inspired “Tupelo Tornado”

by Jan Miller

     Smuin Ballet’s 30th Anniversary Season spring program is a three-part performance that opens with Michael Smuin’s “Starshadows” before a brief pause, and closes with a stylistic “Tupelo Tornado” focusing on Elvis Presley. In between, the audience is treated to two delightful adaptations, including the world premiere showings of “Untwine” and “Broken Open”.

     “Untwine” is spell-binding as the core duet (Cassidy Isaacson and Brandon Alexander), along with three other couples craft intricate spins and extraordinary postures. Then, the audience is treated to an act, “Broken Open”, an inventive and abstract work that choreographer Amy Seiwert uses to represent the idea of something beautiful which blooms from a scar. Smuin dancers bring to life this emotionally stirring work that captures the power of art to transform and heal.

     After another intermission the audience is treated to the more upbeat showing of “Tupelo Tornado”, a mosaic portrait of the artist and King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley. This segment is a far cry from tradition ballet, as the ever-versatile Smuin dancers bring Annabelle Lopez Ochoa’s world to life with effervescent energy performed to a rollicking collage of tunes and soundbites from the King of Rock and Roll. Dancer Brandon Alexander is literally boxed in, portraying Elvis with a television on his head while he convincingly portrays Elvis with signature gestures, including rocking hip swivels turning into quivering tremors. This high-energy dance scene is an unconventional gem that leaves the audience in high spirits.

     Overall,  as can be expected, the caliber of creativity, artistic excellence, and stunning choreography are highlights of Smuin Ballet Series 2. Kudos to choreographers Michael Smuin, Brennan Wall, Amy Seiwert and Annabelle Lopez Ochoa for a job well done!

     Smuin’s Dance Series 2 has been touring the Bay Area, with performances held in San Francisco, Mountain View, Walnut Creek, and wrapping up in Carmel (May 30-31). For tickets ($25-$89) or more information, the public may call 415-912-1899 or visit smuinballet.org.

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Photo caption: Smuin artist Brandon Alexander (center) and the company in the world premiere of Annabelle Lopez Ochoa's "Tupelo Tornado." Inspired by the life and music of Elvis, the new ballet is part of Smuin's "Dance Series 2" program, touring the Bay Area now through May 31. (Credit: Chris Hardy)