NYABJ at ‘Swan Lake’ - A Classic Ballet Brings In New Fans

By: Mana Faye

Photo by Mana Faye

The New York City Ballet 205 Fall season has begun, and this past Thursday, Balanchine’s “Swan Lake” took center stage at The Lincoln Center's David H. Koch Theater. Premiering in 1951, the beloved tale by Tchaikovsky draws hundreds of dedicated ballet fans to the iconic theatre—and some new devotees. 

“It was a beautiful performance,” said first-time attendee Lamia Hairaine, "I felt myself getting emotional towards the end, who knew a dance could make you feel like that?” 

The iconic opera is a classic tragedy of doomed romance.  The plot follows Princess Odette, who is cursed into a white swan by the wicked Von Rothbart. The spell can only be broken by a man who vows his eternal love to Odette, Prince Siegfried. To choose a bride, the prince throws a ball, and Von Rothbart arrives with his daughter, Odile, who is disguised to look exactly like Odette. Prince Siegfried is tricked into professing his love to Odile, dooming Odette to remain a swan forever. Once they both realize their fate, Odette and the prince are left heartbroken and separated by Von Rothbart's curse. 

This season also marked the debut of newly-promoted dancer Miriam Miller. Miller, 28, and standing at 5 '10, has danced with the NYC Ballet for over a decade, starting out as an apprentice, and only a  few months later landing a role as Tatiana in Balanchine’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Miller’s dynamic facial expressions captivated the audience, making for an emotional and overall beautiful performance. The set design was also spectacular, resembling a vast impressionist painting that perfectly captured a fairy-tale essence. 

“Swan Lake” is running until Sept. 28, giving ballet lovers a short window to experience the classic. The production is part of a larger fall lineup spanning six expansive mixed repertory programs, including Justin Peck’s whirlwind “Heatscape,” Balanchine’s "Tchaikovsky Suite No. 3,” and a plethora of contemporary pieces. Audiences can expect a season filled with legacy, creativity, and unforgettable performances.