Coppelia

Kaitie ,

Kaitie and Colin, Claire

There are times in our lives when we experience something wonderful, something so wonderful that you will never forget it. This past weekend was filled with those experiences for me. My children performed in a new ballet (to their ballet school that is) , I had my artist reception, and we celebrated Fathers Day together.

I am choosing to blog about Coppelia first because of the range of emotions that I experienced this weekend. Coppelia debuted over 100 years ago in Paris and has been with us ever since. It is a marvelous ballet based on a book, The Sandman, written by E.T.A. Hoffman (the same guy who wrote the Nutcracker). It is about as comical as any ballet can get. Mrs. Svalander made sure that each class level, from the 4 year olds through the seniors in high school, were given center stage, at least for a few minutes. I can't begin to describe my feelings as the curtain rose. My children, as well, as the entire ballet school, had been working on this ballet for several months, with many long hours spent in rehearsal. I often felt like I should bring an air mattress and camp out at the ballet school. And as the curtain went up for the first time on Friday, my adrenaline was pumping in anticipation of a lavish work. I was completely overwhelmed and amazed by the entire work.

I laughed, I cried, I applauded, and I cheered. I am so fortunate to have been a parent in the audience! All the kids, from littlest to biggest, gave it their all. I am so proud of this group of young people! And then there were my three. My Kaitlyn, who is 15, is finally coming into her own as a dancer. Her carriage was more befitting a ballerina and she finally has a smile that is both serene and wise. Her pointe work has improved and she certainly has more confidence on stage. I did not see a lot of nerves. Way to go Kaitie girl! My daughter Claire, who is 13, has always danced beyond her years. She has the grace and beauty of a much older dancer. She still has 5 years of training before college to improve her technique and strength and then I think she will be formidable. My Claire was partnered with her twin Colin and well, that is where the tears came in. They were unbelievable together. I wish I had a video to post! But alas, no pictures or videos are allowed. My 13 year old son, Colin, is maturing and coming into his own. His jumps are higher, his line is straighter, his balance is better, and his core is stronger. My only complaint about this performance is that it ended...I wanted more. But then, I am insane anyway because the ballet was about 2 1/2 hours. Sigh, I never get tired of watching my children perform. I am so proud of them.

k
PS> Faye, This post was written with you in mind :)