Haglund was completely unprepared for the grown-up elegance and Gelsey-like dynamics of Sarah Lane last night in Theme and Variations. One could see her body absorbing the music which then launched her into dazzling footwork and pristine pirouettes. Perhaps one of the most magnificent T&V performances since Ms. Kirkland herself. Oh yes, and Herman Cornejo danced, too. Haglund doesn’t mean to make him an afterthought – he was indeed extraordinary in his variations as well as 99% of his partnering with remarkable coordination and speed, looks good in pink, and delivered delicious musicality. But, mostly because of the nature of the choreography, he was out-danced and he loved it. No one appreciated Sarah Lane’s performance more last night than Herman Cornejo. Must also mention that the corps, which was superb in the first two T&V performances, really outdid itself last night. They clearly picked up their game for what is now clearly the “A” cast for ABT’s Theme and Variations.
Bravo. Brava. Bravi.