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Ondine

Published Monday 1 December 2008 at 10:45 by Gavin Roebuck

From the moment Tamara Rojo emerges from under the waterfall as water sprite Ondine it is not just Edward Watson, as Palemon, but also the audience who are entranced.

Playful and feral, delicate yet commanding, Rojo’s performance is beautiful and touching, especially in pas de deux with Watson.

Watson has developed into an accomplished artist. Now he combines his gifted balletic technique with a convincing acting ability, which enables him to create a full understanding of this demanding role. He shows Palamon as both passionate and tender and his grief in the last act swells up like the sea in which he drowns.

As Berta, the jealous fiancee, Genesia Rosato was powerful. Gary Avis perhaps slightly underplayed the hermit.

Ricardo Cervera as Tirrenio, Lord of the Sea, danced exceptionally well. The Mediterranean divertissement in Act III, led by Jose Martin and Mara Galeazzi, has speed and sparkle, though badly illuminated by John B Read’s gloomy lighting. The work includes some demanding ensemble dancing with Vanessa Fenton being dazzling. Some character performers including the radiant Olga Sabadoch enhance Act III.

A welcome addition to the season, Frederick Ashton’s three-act ballet dating from 1958 was inspired by his love of the sea and includes an engaging shipwreck scene. Christopher Carr, who worked with Ashton on this revival in 1988, has successfully staged this with great attention to the subtle detail of the original choreography, which remains fresh and interesting. Well worth a visit, with other good casts on offer.

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