On Sunday, November 2, 2008, American Ballet Theatre (ABT) showcased the company with a performance that was not to be missed. It was a diverse program with works from four different choreographers. From Ballo della Regina, choreographed by George Balancine with  with its intricate and quick footwork, to Jardin aux Lilas, choregraphed by Antony Tudor, which is a  theatrical piece. In addition, Company B by Paul Taylor was lighthearted and fun.

However, the showstopper was  the Flames of Paris Pas de Deux. It wasn’t the piece itself that was special, but rather the performance by Daniel Simkin, a young dancer who just joined ABT in October 2008 as a soloist.

Simkin danced with technical perfection. He stopped on balance at the end of his turns and looked as if he defied gravity when he jumped.  You can see a video of him performing this piece by going to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlSujNro5c8&feature=related. It’s not quite as exciting as the live performance, but you’ll get a taste of what this fabulous dancer can do.